Race Details
Following over 10 different waterways the Beaver Freezer Marathon travels across pristine wilderness within the Robinson-Huron Treaty territory. These routes were traditionally used for hunting and fishing by Garden River and Batchewana First Nations, as well as Métis People. Competitors can ski, run or fat bike up to 42 kms of lakes, streams and trails following a marked path with specialized rescue crews, volunteers and hundreds of other people. There are several aid stations along the way where people can grab a drink or snack. Distances include 42km, 24km, 14km and 5km races.
This year there is more backcountry for everyone! We will providing busses to get competitors and their steeds (fat bikes) to remote start lines. Open trailers will be available to transport Fat Bikes.
Full Marathon 42 kms
0800 Start at Hiawatha Highlands
Finish at Hiawatha Highlands
Half Marathon 22 kms
0830 Busses depart Hiawatha Highlands
0900 Start at Island Lake
Finish at Hiawatha Highlands
Mini Marathon 12-14 kms
0930 Busses depart Hiawatha Highlands
1000 Start at Trout Lake
Finish at Hiawatha Highlands
Short Course 5 kms
1100 Start at Hiawatha Highlands
Finish at Hiawatha Highlands
If conditions are unsuitable on March 11th we will postpone to March 12th.
Distances are estimates and may change depending on conditions.
GPX and Maps
GPX and maps will be posted here when available.
Map displayed is for refrence only and does not accurately describe all routes.
COURSE INFORMATION
The course will have three different start lines and all races finish at Hiawatha Highlands. It will take competitors through scenic inland lakes, meandering streams and steep canyons. There will be tough climbs on narrow snowmachine routes, undulating portage trails that will strain the camber of your skis and possibly slightly flooded sections that may wet some feet. Be prepared and bring extra gear!
Only the kilometers within the Hiawatha Highlands ski area will be groomed for skiing and fat biking. Once you pass the Mabel Lake turn off it will be wide open adventure territory including ice and snowmachine trails. The running portion within Hiawatha Highlands will take place on snowshoe trails. In March, these conditions are typically prime for skiing, fat biking and running.
This is not a closed course. Expect to see other pedestrians and snowmobiles out on the course. There will be signage at all the intersections indicating that there is a race in progress and to guide you along the way.
Aid – Aid Station. Each TA will be staffed by volunteers and have an aid station. You can fill your bottle, grab a snack or swap your teammate. All racers must check in at TAs during the event for safety checks.
Aid Station 1 and Aid Station 3 are co-located.
GPX tracks will be posted closer to the event.
HOW THE RACE WORKS
Choose your own adventure! The weather can be volatile in March and you never know what you were going to get. Check the race start times prior to the race and show up in time to catch the proper bus to the start lines. Ensure you are early enough to check in with registration and receive the race briefing.