15th Annual SISU Ski Fest
Athletes, volunteers and spectators alike are looking forward to the 15th annual SISU Ski Fest, THE premier Winter event in Ironwood, the first weekend of January! Community pride and small-town hospitality welcomes our 900 racers, 300 volunteers, their family and friends.
Individuals, families, and groups trickle in race week to start warming up for the race. Ironwood has ample lodging to fit your needs. The perfect match for your group, budget and personality can be found. Once settled in, the adventure begins!
Test out portions of the racecourse at ABR Ski Trails or visit Miners Park to check out the later Ks of the racecourse. Wolverine Nordic Trails are another popular venue race week. Snowshoeing and fat biking provide alternative outdoor recreation within our beautiful Northwoods setting. A 15-mile drive to Lake Superior could reveal ice floes by day, or the Northern Lights by night.
Local coffee houses, gift shops, restaurants and bars keep everyone well fed and entertained. Relaxing in a hot tub or sauna makes for a nice sleep after a fun active day.
SISU Friday sees racers at the Expo getting their racer bags and checking out the vendor booths. First Friday events offer plenty of diversion for the whole family throughout downtown Ironwood. Stop by the Depot Dash and cheer on kids 10 and under as they try skiing for possibly the first time. Watch as groomers magically build the “Finnish” line with their snow moving machines.
Race day requires several road closures for the racecourse to pass, so plan ahead by looking at the map on the SISU website. Spectators along the course and at the “Finnish” line in Downtown City Square can glimpse the thrill of racing while adding to the festive atmosphere by cheering or clanging on cowbells.
SISU Sunday is a good day for a recovery ski, fat bike, snowshoe, or downhill ski day. Haven’t had enough? Extend your stay into the next week or come back throughout the rest of the season. There’s always more to see and do in our Winter wonderland!