FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

UP Health System Great Bear Chase Coming March 7

The Calumet, Michigan, snow machine continues, with another 18 inches recorded February 18, for a total of 245 inches on the year. The Swedetown trails have a base of almost 3 feet. Everything points to great conditions for the 2026 UP Health System Great Bear Chase on March 7.

The Great Bear Chase offers ten separate races, including two skiathlon distances, where skiers complete half using classic technique and half freestyle, and two adaptive distances. Races include:

• 53km and 20km skiathlon
• 10km, 24km, and 53km classic
• 10km, 24km, and 53km freestyle
• 3km and 5km adaptive

Registration includes a post-race pasty luncheon, a Great Bear Chase hat, free photo downloads, many age group awards, door prizes (including a set of skis), and other swag. Major support this year comes from the Great Lakes Sports Commission. In addition, The 52km freestyle is part of this year’s Tour de Finn, sponsored by the Finn Sisu ski shop in St. Paul. 

Thanks to an anonymous donor, the 2026 Junior Bear Chase has no fee, but pre-registration is required. The junior race has options of 1km classic, 2km classic, 2km freestyle, and 4km freestyle. Register at the Great Bear Chase website.