Join Us March 7, 2026
The Great Bear Chase offers cross country ski races to skiers of all abilities and ages, and is known for its laid-back, friendly atmosphere. Races are held at the Swedetown ski trails in Calumet, Michigan, which receives more than 230 inches of snow each year. Participants enjoy a post-race pasty luncheon, a Great Bear Chase hat, overall and age-group awards, door prizes, and other swag.
Events and Distances
The UP Health System Great Bear Chase Ski Marathon includes these events:
• 53 kilometer skiathlon
• 20 kilometer skiathlon
• 53 kilometer freestyle
• 53 kilometer classic
• 24 kilometer freestyle
• 24 kilometer classic
• 10 kilometer freestyle
• 10 kilometer classic
• 3 and 6 kilometer sit-ski
• Junior Bear Chase races of 1km, 2km, and 4km
Check out our videos from 2025
Great Bear Chase
Junior Bear Chase
New! Bear Chase Joins Tour de Finn
The 2026 Great Bear Chase 53km freestyle race is part of this year's Tour de Finn, sponsored by the Finn Sisu ski shop in St. Paul. This free individual and team competition encourages participation in local Midwest races. Teams must register at the Tour de Finn website by January 6, 2026. Individuals need do nothing but ski; the Tour de Finn scores every individual in every participating race.
Volunteers Needed
It takes 100 volunteers to make the Great Bear Chase happen. Set-up and take-down, banquet, timing backup, aid stations, and many other opportunities. Check out our volunteer page and, if you don't intend to race, sign up!
Choose Your Event
Junior Bear Chase
Sponsors
