Growing up in the heart of Wisconsin’s Northwoods, the American Birkebeiner has always been more than just an event—it’s a cherished tradition. Each February, our town of Hayward transforms, welcoming thousands of skiers and spectators from around the globe. The streets buzz with energy, local businesses flourish, and there is an undeniable sense of community pride.
Some of my earliest memories of the Birkie involve bundling up to watch the races, cheering as skiers raced through Main Street, and taking part in the Giant Ski event—a test of teamwork and balance on oversized skis that always led to plenty of laughs and a few tumbles. It’s always been a time of excitement, and in many ways, it has shaped what winter in the Northwoods means to me.
This year, I had the distinct honor of experiencing the Birkie from a new perspective—behind the lens. As a photographer and videographer, I was entrusted with capturing the essence of the 2025 Birkie Week. The event schedule was packed with activities that showcased the spirit and diversity of the Birkie:
Wednesday, February 19: The excitement kicked off with the Open Track events and the Birkie Expo, where vendors and enthusiasts gathered, setting the tone for the days ahead and giving skiers the opportunity to check out the latest gear and ski products.
Thursday, February 20: This day was packed with excitement, featuring my favorite event the Barkie Birkie Skijor, where participants skied alongside their canine companions. The Para Birkie also took place, an inspiring event showcasing the determination and strength of adaptive athletes as they navigated the course with incredible perseverance. The day also included the Junior Birkie races, giving young skiers their moment to shine on the trails, and the Birkie Giant Ski, a fan-favorite team event full of camaraderie and competition. This thrilling event, where teams of six navigate the course on oversized skis, was the perfect way to wrap up the day before the Birkie Bash at the Steakhouse and Lodge, where participants and spectators gathered to celebrate the spirit of the race.
Friday, February 21: The Kortelopet and Prince Haakon races took center stage, offering skiers of varying skill levels a chance to challenge themselves on the legendary trails. I spent much of the day stationed at the Prince Haakon finish area, capturing the excitement as skiers completed their journey. One of the most special moments of the day was the opportunity to visit with Birkie legend Ernie St. Germaine, one of the original ‘Birkie Warriors’ and a skier who has completed every American Birkebeiner since its inception in 1973. Hearing his stories and witnessing his unwavering dedication to the sport was an unforgettable highlight of the day.
Saturday, February 22: The pinnacle of the week, the Slumberland American Birkebeiner, witnessed elite and amateur skiers alike pushing their limits in a display of endurance and passion. This was my first time ever standing at the starting line at the legendary Telemark area, and the emotions were overwhelming. Seeing the flags waving in the snowy morning light, hearing the sound of skis gliding over fresh powder, and feeling the collective energy of thousands of skiers preparing to embark on their journey—it was a full-circle moment for me. Growing up in this town, the Birkie has always been part of my life, but in that moment, I realized the sheer magnitude of what I was witnessing. I was just a small-town girl capturing a world-class event, and it hit me hard. The weight of tradition, the passion of the skiers, and the deep-rooted history of the Birkebeiner all collided in that instant, and I couldn’t help but get emotional. The Birkie isn’t just a race—it’s a legacy, and being able to document it from the start to the finish line was an experience I’ll never forget.
Documenting these events was both exhilarating and humbling. The finish line was especially emotional. As the Birkie lead finisher made their way off Lake Hayward, the bells at the church downtown began to toll—a tradition that lets spectators know that the race is about to reach its climax. The sound echoed through the town, building anticipation as the crowd gathered in excitement. It was a moment that sent chills down my spine, a symbol of how deeply ingrained this race is in our community and history. Through my lens, I captured moments of determination, elation, and unity. The sight of skiers crossing the finish line—some with arms raised in triumph, others collapsing into the embrace of loved ones—encapsulated the profound impact of the Birkie.
Reflecting on this journey, I couldn’t help but think about how the Birkie is more than just a race; it’s the heartbeat of our town, a testament to resilience, community, and the enduring spirit of the Northwoods. The Birkie is woven into the fabric of our community. It’s a celebration of our heritage, a boost to our local economy, and a beacon that draws people together. From the wide-eyed children at the Barnebirkie to the seasoned athletes skiing their 30th race, the Birkie spirit thrives in all of us.
As the snow begins to melt and the town slowly returns to its usual rhythm, I find myself reflecting on the countless moments that made this Birkie so special. The memories of the determined skiers, the roaring crowds, and the overwhelming sense of community will stay with me long after the event has ended. Here’s to the American Birkebeiner, an event that continues to inspire and unite, year after year.
