Trails: The 51 km (31 miles) Birkebeiner Trail stretches from the Telemark Resort near Cable south towards Hayward. At the American Birkebeiner ski marathon in late February more than 7,000 skiers test their mettle in the freestyle or classic course. In 2008, a separate trail for classic skiers was completed on the northern half of the trail, extending the classic course by 3 km. Both trails are groomed for skate and classic cross-country skiing all season, except during the week of the race when the trails are groomed for one specific technique.
The south end of the Birkie Trail finishes at Hatchery Road, northeast of Hayward, except during the race when skiers finish in downtown Hayward. The Birkie Trail is quite hilly (see the course elevation profile on the Birkie website) and best suited to strong skiers. The classic trail is slightly less steep due to its more winding layout. Two short sections of the trail, one near its midpoint at Co Highway "OO" and one at Hatchery Road, are lighted for night skiing. Trail fees: The North End and Birkebeiner trails require a car parking pass, $10/car/day or $50/season (winter 2009-10), which can be purchased at deposit boxes at the trailheads. Telemark Resort trails (except the Birkie and North End trails) require a trail pass. Snow report: Trail conditions are posted on the Birkie website. Nearest town: Cable and Hayward, WI Web site:American Birkebeiner Trail map: Available on the Birkie website Equipment rentals: XC ski equipment is available at Telemark Resort and in Cable and Hayward. Ski lessons: At Telemark Resort Other winter activities: Facilities: Restaurant and lodge at Telemark Resort. Warming cabins are at North End, "OO", and Hatchery Road. Lodging on site: At Telemark Resort Lodging nearby: Cable and Hayward have several inns and other accommodations. Tourism info:Cable Area Chamber | Hayward Lakes VB Weather report: for Cable Location of trails: The Birkie Trail runs from near the Telemark Resort in Cable to the town of Hayward, 20 miles to the southwest. The North End and Birkie trails can be accessed from Randysek Road, south of Cable or from Telemark Resort. The midpoint of the trail is on Co. Rd "00", about 3 miles east of Seeley. The southern trailhead is on Hatchery Road, a couple miles east of Hayward. Check the Wisconsin Road Conditions before driving. Map of local region:Birkebeiner Trail (Co Rd "OO")
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