Thunderbird Warrior Challenge

The Thunderbird Warrior Challenge takes place on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Mt. Ashwabay Ski & Recreation Area (32525 Ski Hill Rd, Bayfield, Wisconsin). This event features 50K, 25K, 10K trail runs and a 5K fun run with an obstacle course, offering Wisconsin's northernmost trail run with stunning views of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands.

Event Logistics & Participant Information:

• Location: Mt. Ashwabay Ski & Recreation Area, 32525 Ski Hill Rd, Bayfield, WI 54814. Phone: 715.779.3227 • Email: [email protected].
• Registration Deadline: Closes Friday, June 12, 2026, at 11:59 PM CT via UltraSignup.
• Start Times: 50K at 6:00 AM. 25K and 10K at 8:00 AM. 5K fun run at 9:00 AM.
• Course Description: Looped course with approximately two-thirds singletrack trail and one-third cross country ski trails/two track. Features old growth maple and hemlock stands, sandy pines, deep ravines, and panoramic Lake Superior vistas.
• 5K Course: Within Mt. Ashwabay's trail system plus an obstacle course.
• On-site Camping: Available for $20 (primitive, no hook-ups).
• Weather Policy: Event is rain or shine.
• Refund Policy: No refunds or transfers.
• Packet Pickup: Required with ID (discount verification for veterans/first responders/active duty).

Swag, Discounts & Community:

• Participant Swag: All participants receive event swag.
• Discounts: 10% discount for veterans and first responders (use code VETS1ST). Free admission for active duty military (use code ACTIVE). Valid ID required at packet pickup.
• Fundraising Mission: All proceeds split between Camp Benesi (veterans and gold star families retreat) and Mt. Ashwabay (non-profit ski & recreation area).
• Family Activities: Food, vendors, entertainment, games, and activities throughout the day for the whole family.
• Course Highlights: Passes Nourse Sugarbush State Natural Area and historic sugar shack. Pink lady slipper orchids bloom along the trail in June. Ancient maple sap harvest slashes from Anishinaabe people visible on trees.
• Terrain Features: Glacial topography with twisty hills, moderately-technical singletrack, and a substantial climb to the peak of Mt. Ashwabay.

Honor & Heritage:

• Event Name: Thunderbird Warrior Challenge honors Master Sergeant Jonathan J. Dunbar, whose Ojibwe name was Waabishkebinesi (White Thunderbird). He found deep peace and healing in the Northwoods and Lake Superior region after overseas service.
• Camp Benesi: A non-profit recreational retreat named in his honor, providing free sanctuary for veterans and Gold Star families grieving loss or dealing with effects of military service. All expenses for travel, lodging, meals, and activities are covered for guests.
• Gold Star Families: Immediate family of service members who died during conflict. The gold star originated from WWI Service Flags.
• Mt. Ashwabay: Dedicated to youth, community, and getting people outdoors. Offers over 45km of Nordic skiing, downhill runs, fat bike & snowshoe trails in winter, plus 20+ miles of singletrack mountain bike trails maintained by CAMBA volunteers in summer.

The Thunderbird Warrior Challenge on June 13, 2026, in Bayfield, Wisconsin, combines scenic Lake Superior trail running with a powerful mission — honoring fallen service members while supporting veteran healing and outdoor recreation.