East Bluff Meltdown 20K Nordic Ski Race

Welcome to the East Bluff Meltdown 

Saturday, March 21, 2026 | End of the Road Trails | Copper Harbor, Michigan

The Copper Harbor Trails Club presents the East Bluff Melt Down—A brand new 20K freestyle nordic ski challenge that showcases the best of what Copper Harbor has to offer on the End of the Road trails. The climbs are no joke, and racing down our new trails—Winter Magic and Dream Factory—could get spicy. This is the kind of course you hate until you crest the bluff, then grin like a maniac all the way to the finish line.

We aim to set track on roughly 40% of the course for classic folks.

We're offering two waves so everyone can experience this course on their own terms:

• Race Wave: This is for competitors. You're chasing the clock, pushing your limits, and going after podium spots in your age class.
• Touring Wave: Same gnarly 20K course, zero pressure. You're here for the challenge and the experience, not the stopwatch. 

Course Note: This race takes place on advanced terrain with sustained climbs and technical descents. It's a rewarding challenge for skiers comfortable on difficult trails in variable conditions. If you're looking to push yourself, this course delivers.

Race Details:

Location: End Of The Road Trails, Copper Harbor
Distance: 20K Freestyle (classic track set on ~40% of course)
Start Time: 10:00 AM
Bib Pick-Up: 8:00–9:30 AM at CHTC HQ, 64 Gratiot St, Copper Harbor, MI 49918

Registration:

• Early Registration: $40
• Day-of Registration: $50

Parking:

Available at the end of US-41. We'll send detailed logistics in pre-race communications. Carpool if you can.

After the Race:

Your day doesn't end at the finish line.

THE WANDER – 2:00 PM | East Bluff Campground
Grab your skis, fat bike, or snowshoes and make the 1.5-mile journey to East Bluff Campground. Find a cozy fire and delicious chili from The Mariner North. No registration required. Free and open to everyone—racers and non-racers welcome.

THE APRÈS – 6:00 PM | The Mariner North
Live music, awards, and celebration. We'll hand out awards to podium winners and toast to everyone who chose to spend a late-winter Saturday embracing winter in Copper Harbor. Free and open to everyone.

Questions? Email us at info@copperharbortrails.org