CAMP BENESI & MT. ASHWABAY PRESENT:
THE THUNDERBIRD WARRIOR CHALLENGE
50K TRAIL RUN, 25K TRAIL RUN, 10K TRAIL RUN & 5K FUN RUN W/ OBSTACLES!
There will be fun, games, entertainment, and activities throughout the day for the whole family!
This is a fundraising event. All proceeds will be split between Camp Benesi & Mt. Ashwabay.
There will be fun, games, entertainment, and activities throughout the day for the whole family!
This is a fundraising event. All proceeds will be split between Camp Benesi & Mt. Ashwabay.
RACE DETAILS
THE COURSE
The trail runs feature a mix of flowy, rolling trails and technical singletrack. This trail race takes you through a spectacular northwoods mosaic of old growth maple stands and sandy pines, with panoramic vistas of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands.
This is a looped course with approximately two-thirds of the course on singletrack trail, and the remaining one-third on Mt. Ashwabay's famous cross country ski trails/two track.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Starting at Bayfield’s iconic Big Top Chautauqua Tent on the slopes of Mt. Ashwabay, runners will head out over gentle rolling ski trails through northern mesic forest of old growth maple and hemlock. The trail winds its way to the Nourse Sugarbush State Natural Area where runners will pass the historic sugar shack, used for generations by the Nourse family. This stunning forest is one of the last remnant stands of old growth sugar maple and hemlock in the Midwest, and presents a living history of human settlement on the south shore. Long diagonal slashes can still be seen on some trees today from hundreds of years of maple sap harvest by the Anishinaabe people.
After passing the sugar shack, runners will face their first substantial climb to the peak of Mt. Ashwabay for a panoramic view of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands before heading back down the back side of our little mountain on moderately-technical singletrack. The trail traverses glacial topography of deep ravines and twisty hills… keep your eyes peeled for pink lady slipper orchids blooming along the side of the trail! The single-track takes you on a fast, flowy loop before descending back down through sandy pine stands. Runners will then climb back up toward the top of the hill, for a final descent back towards the Big Top tent.
START TIMES
June 14, 2025.
50K at 6:00 am
25K at 8:00 am
10K at 8:00 am
5K fun run w/obstacle course at 9:00 am.
MORE
This is going to be a fun day for the whole family. Food, vendors, entertainment, games, and activities throughout the day.
Event is rain or shine. No refunds or transfers.
More info and detailed schedule of other activities to come!
The trail runs feature a mix of flowy, rolling trails and technical singletrack. This trail race takes you through a spectacular northwoods mosaic of old growth maple stands and sandy pines, with panoramic vistas of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands.
This is a looped course with approximately two-thirds of the course on singletrack trail, and the remaining one-third on Mt. Ashwabay's famous cross country ski trails/two track.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Starting at Bayfield’s iconic Big Top Chautauqua Tent on the slopes of Mt. Ashwabay, runners will head out over gentle rolling ski trails through northern mesic forest of old growth maple and hemlock. The trail winds its way to the Nourse Sugarbush State Natural Area where runners will pass the historic sugar shack, used for generations by the Nourse family. This stunning forest is one of the last remnant stands of old growth sugar maple and hemlock in the Midwest, and presents a living history of human settlement on the south shore. Long diagonal slashes can still be seen on some trees today from hundreds of years of maple sap harvest by the Anishinaabe people.
After passing the sugar shack, runners will face their first substantial climb to the peak of Mt. Ashwabay for a panoramic view of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands before heading back down the back side of our little mountain on moderately-technical singletrack. The trail traverses glacial topography of deep ravines and twisty hills… keep your eyes peeled for pink lady slipper orchids blooming along the side of the trail! The single-track takes you on a fast, flowy loop before descending back down through sandy pine stands. Runners will then climb back up toward the top of the hill, for a final descent back towards the Big Top tent.
START TIMES
June 14, 2025.
50K at 6:00 am
25K at 8:00 am
10K at 8:00 am
5K fun run w/obstacle course at 9:00 am.
MORE
This is going to be a fun day for the whole family. Food, vendors, entertainment, games, and activities throughout the day.
Event is rain or shine. No refunds or transfers.
More info and detailed schedule of other activities to come!
CAMPING
Camping is rustic with no hookups or amenities. There will be porta-potties in the camping areas but no water or electricity. Some communal fire rings will be available. No fires are allowed outside of those rings. Quiet hours from 10 pm to 5 am. No generators after 10 pm (be aware of fire danger and take necessary precautions). 4 people per site.
Allowed Items in Campground:
Please help us continue the responsible stewardship of our land and the enviornment by following the guidelines below:
The following guidelines apply to open burning during special events per DNR Administrative Codes and Wisconsin Statutes:
TRASH & DISPOSAL
CURFEW & GENERATOR USE
RIGHTS OF EVICTION
We reserve the right to eject any patron because of, but not limited to the following:
EMERGENCIES
SALES & REFUNDS
PETS
Allowed Items in Campground:
- Food and Drink, including Alcohol
- Portable Camping Grill - must be small and self-contained - gas propane and charcoal acceptable
- Wagons
- No Vending
- No Glass containers
- No Fireworks, Tiki Torches, Kegs or Drones
- No Golf Carts, ATVs, boats or otherwise power sporting transportation
- No Illegal substances
- No Chainsaws
- No Firearms or weapons with or without a permit
Please help us continue the responsible stewardship of our land and the enviornment by following the guidelines below:
- NO individual campfires will be permitted.
- Cooking is allowed in all campgrounds as long as the fire is contained within a small metal or freestanding grill. This may be subject to change according to local burning bans during the festival.
- Tiki Torches, fireworks and other open flames will not be allowed in campgrounds.
- ABSOLUTELY NO BONFIRES OF ANY TYPE. There are community fire rings in camping area.
- Please DO NOT bring in your own wood scraps/wood from home. SAFE WOOD WILL BE PROVIDED.
The following guidelines apply to open burning during special events per DNR Administrative Codes and Wisconsin Statutes:
- The local fire department requires that each campfire have a visible container of water near the campfire —1 gallon minimum requirement.
- No outdoor fires if weather conditions make fires potentially hazardous.
- SS 941.10 Individuals who handle burning material in a highly negligent manner will be guilty of a Class A misdemeanor. Highly negligent is defined as a situation where a person puts another person’s property in danger.
- SS 26.21 Any person who starts a fire may be liable for double the amount of damages done by a fire started by an individual due to negligence. Persons starting the fire will also be held responsible for the costs to the county or town of suppressing such a fire.
- Ashes must be disposed of by thoroughly wetting them or by placing them in a covered metal container.
- ABSOLUTELY NO FIREWORKS OF ANY KIND – including sparklers and firecrackers.
- Violators will be issued citations on-site by the Bayfield County Sheriff's Department.
- Fire Patrol will be conducted by event security.
- Fire or medical emergency will be handled by EMS Services
TRASH & DISPOSAL
- Please leave your campsite in the same condition as you found it. Leave No Trace.
- Clean-up of campsites is required. Remember to bring your own garbage bags for your camp trash. All trash should be placed in dumpsters or along camp roads before exiting the campground. Recycling should be placed in appropriate containers.
- You will be responsible for recycling and garbage disposal. There will be bins throughout the campground.
CURFEW & GENERATOR USE
- Amplified music after 10PM is not allowed
- A 10PM curfew on loud music, parties, excessive noise, or anything that disturbs neighbors will be enforced. We do not expect total quiet; however, please respect your fellow campers.
- Generators must be shut off in all camping areas from 10PM to 5AM.
- Security officers have the authority to ask any person or groups of people who are abusing the noise curfew to leave the grounds and not return. No refund of admission or camping will be given to anyone asked to leave.
RIGHTS OF EVICTION
We reserve the right to eject any patron because of, but not limited to the following:
- Counterfeit or incorrect credentials
- Tampering of campsite
- Drinking and driving
- Excessive drinking
- Bad behavior and/or excessive noise
- Unauthorized sale of food, beverage, or merchandise on site
- Conduct that is deemed illegal, disorderly or offensive by management
EMERGENCIES
- In the event of severe weather, a warning will be issued by Event Staff. Please follow the instructions given. Your cooperation will ensure the safety of you and others.
- Cell reception can be unreliable at the venue and camping sites. If you need to be notified by family/friends during for an off-site emergency while attending, your family must contact the Bayfield County Sheriff’s Department. Present security or law enforcement will notify the individual as soon as possible.
SALES & REFUNDS
- There will be no refunds or exchanges permitted.
- Ashwabay Alliance will not be responsible for lost or stolen items nor damage to person or property while attending.
- All admission passes are valid for ONE person only, trading credentials is grounds for ejection.
- Refunds will not be provided for anyone asked to leave.
- Disorderly conduct and destroying of property will not be tolerated and is grounds for ejection.
PETS
- Well-behaved dogs are OK. Dogs must not be left unattended. All dogs must be on leash at all times.
ABOUT CAMP BENESI & Mt. ASHWABAY
CAMP BENESI
A non-profit 501c3 recreational getaway for veterans and gold star families who are grieving loss or dealing with the effects of military service. Our mission is to provide a safe and peaceful retreat for our guests to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and connect with others who share similar experiences. Camp Benesi offers free lodging, meals, and activities at no cost to guests. Learn More
Watch a short video about Camp Benesi here.
The camp offers veterans and Gold Star families a peaceful environment to heal and connect with others who share similar experiences. Guests are welcomed at no cost, with all expenses for travel, lodging, meals, and activities covered. The camp provides a variety of outdoor activities aimed at fostering relaxation, healing, and community among participants.
MT. ASHWABAY
A non-profit 501c3 ski & recreation area in Bayfield, Wisconsin. Our mission focuses on promoting fun, fitness, safety, and excellence in cross-country skiing and other outdoor recreation activities. We aim to provide accessible and enjoyable experiences for people of all ages, emphasizing community involvement and outdoor education. Learn More
Mt. Ashwabay Outdoor Recreation Area is dedicated to youth, community, and getting people outdoors. Tucked deep in the serine Northwoods of Bayfield, Wisconsin, overlooking Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands, the perfect location for the Thunderbird Warrior Challenge. Mt. Ashwaby shines in winter with over 45km of some of the best Nordic skiing in the country, downhill runs with postcard views, groomed fat bike & snowshoe trails with plenty of backcountry opportunities, and all of this opens up for hiking & trail running in the summer! Plus over 20 miles of single-track mountain bike trails maintained to perfection by volunteers & CAMBA— it’s heaven for outdoor enthusiasts in any season.
A non-profit 501c3 recreational getaway for veterans and gold star families who are grieving loss or dealing with the effects of military service. Our mission is to provide a safe and peaceful retreat for our guests to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and connect with others who share similar experiences. Camp Benesi offers free lodging, meals, and activities at no cost to guests. Learn More
Watch a short video about Camp Benesi here.
The camp offers veterans and Gold Star families a peaceful environment to heal and connect with others who share similar experiences. Guests are welcomed at no cost, with all expenses for travel, lodging, meals, and activities covered. The camp provides a variety of outdoor activities aimed at fostering relaxation, healing, and community among participants.
MT. ASHWABAY
A non-profit 501c3 ski & recreation area in Bayfield, Wisconsin. Our mission focuses on promoting fun, fitness, safety, and excellence in cross-country skiing and other outdoor recreation activities. We aim to provide accessible and enjoyable experiences for people of all ages, emphasizing community involvement and outdoor education. Learn More
Mt. Ashwabay Outdoor Recreation Area is dedicated to youth, community, and getting people outdoors. Tucked deep in the serine Northwoods of Bayfield, Wisconsin, overlooking Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands, the perfect location for the Thunderbird Warrior Challenge. Mt. Ashwaby shines in winter with over 45km of some of the best Nordic skiing in the country, downhill runs with postcard views, groomed fat bike & snowshoe trails with plenty of backcountry opportunities, and all of this opens up for hiking & trail running in the summer! Plus over 20 miles of single-track mountain bike trails maintained to perfection by volunteers & CAMBA— it’s heaven for outdoor enthusiasts in any season.
REGISTER NOW
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER NOW!
This is a fundraising event. All proceeds will be split between Camp Benesi and Mt. Ashwabay.
We aim to bring you another event to remember.
Thank you for supporting Camp Benesi and Mt. Ashwabay!
Learn more about Mt. Ashwabay
Learn more about Camp Benesi
PRICING:
50k = $120
25k = $95
10k = $60
5k = $35
ON-SITE CAMPING = $20 (no hook-ups)
Anyone under 10 must be accompanied by a registered adult.
10% DISCOUNT FOR VETERANS & FIRST RESPONDERS. FREE ADMISSION FOR ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY.
At registration checkout, use code VETS1ST for veterans and first responders.
Use code ACTIVE for active duty military. Please have ID at packet pick-up.
This is a fundraising event. All proceeds will be split between Camp Benesi and Mt. Ashwabay.
We aim to bring you another event to remember.
Thank you for supporting Camp Benesi and Mt. Ashwabay!
Learn more about Mt. Ashwabay
Learn more about Camp Benesi
PRICING:
50k = $120
25k = $95
10k = $60
5k = $35
ON-SITE CAMPING = $20 (no hook-ups)
Anyone under 10 must be accompanied by a registered adult.
10% DISCOUNT FOR VETERANS & FIRST RESPONDERS. FREE ADMISSION FOR ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY.
At registration checkout, use code VETS1ST for veterans and first responders.
Use code ACTIVE for active duty military. Please have ID at packet pick-up.
RACE MAPS
LOCATION & CONTACT
LOCATION
Mt. Ashwabay Outdoor Recreation Area
32525 Ski Hill Rd, Bayfield WI 54814
CONTACT
715.779.3227 | [email protected]
Mt. Ashwabay Outdoor Recreation Area
32525 Ski Hill Rd, Bayfield WI 54814
CONTACT
715.779.3227 | [email protected]
BEHIND THE NAME
Our event’s name honors Camp Benesi’s namesake, Master Sergeant Jonathan J. Dunbar whose Ojibwe name was Waabishkebinesi, or White Thunderbird. Master Sergeant Dunbar had a deep love for the Northwoods and Lake Superior. This was his place of peace when he came home after serving overseas. He found a deep peace and healing here that he couldn’t explain, but it helped him recenter and heal. Camp Benesi was born in his honor, to share that same peace and healing to other Veteran and Gold Star Families. Watch a short video about MSGT Jonathan J. Dunbar here.
Gold Star family members are recognized as the immediate family members of service members who have died while serving our nation during conflict.
The term "Gold Star Family" is a contemporary reference derived from the Service Flag, which was first used by families during World War I. The flag displayed a blue star for each immediate family member serving in the U.S. armed forces during wartime or hostilities. If a service member died, their blue star was replaced with a gold star, signaling the family's sacrifice in the pursuit of freedom. This allowed the community to recognize the ultimate personal cost that the family had paid.
Our event’s name honors Camp Benesi’s namesake, Master Sergeant Jonathan J. Dunbar whose Ojibwe name was Waabishkebinesi, or White Thunderbird. Master Sergeant Dunbar had a deep love for the Northwoods and Lake Superior. This was his place of peace when he came home after serving overseas. He found a deep peace and healing here that he couldn’t explain, but it helped him recenter and heal. Camp Benesi was born in his honor, to share that same peace and healing to other Veteran and Gold Star Families. Watch a short video about MSGT Jonathan J. Dunbar here.
Gold Star family members are recognized as the immediate family members of service members who have died while serving our nation during conflict.
The term "Gold Star Family" is a contemporary reference derived from the Service Flag, which was first used by families during World War I. The flag displayed a blue star for each immediate family member serving in the U.S. armed forces during wartime or hostilities. If a service member died, their blue star was replaced with a gold star, signaling the family's sacrifice in the pursuit of freedom. This allowed the community to recognize the ultimate personal cost that the family had paid.
GALLERY
