The Birkebeiner is an annual cross-country ski race through Northwest Wisconsin. Birkebeiner is a Norwegian word derived from the birch bark leggings worn by the skiers who were servants to the King. The Birkebeiner's roots began almost 800 years ago. In 1206 Norway was in midst of a civil war. King Sverresson assigned his Birkebeiner skiers to take his 18-month-old illegitimate son to safety through the treacherous mountains and rugged forests of Norway's Osterdalen Valley. They bravely traveled by ski through the backcountry from Lillehammer to safety in the town of Trondheim. The King was eventually overtaken and killed, but thanks to the Birkebeiner's efforts the boy survived and later became King Hakon Hakonson IV who was very influential in shaping the history of northern Europe.

This story was the inspiration for the first Birkebeiner ski race held in Norway in 1932. In 1973 a man named Tony Wise brought the "Birkie" to America. The first race was from Hayward to Cable, WI. Only 34 men and 1 woman signed up for the 50 kilometer race. The first Birkebeiner Champion was Eric Errson of Sweden in a time of 2:48:16! Over the past 30 years the length and location of the Birkebeiner has varied due to weather or lack thereof. In 1983, 450 truckloads of snow were brought in just for the race. One thing that has changed drastically over its 30 year history is the number of participants. The first race started with 35 skiers; the last one in 2003 had almost 9,000 participants, which includes skiers signed up for some of the shorter races. Also, almost 20,000 spectators arrived to witness the event. The race is open to all and has included participants from all over the world including members of several Olympic Ski Teams.

The Birkebeiner is not just a race. Its festival-like atmosphere offers fun and activities for all ages. Whether you ski professionally, for fun or you've never skied before visit Hayward this February for the Historic American Birkebeiner.