18 Feb 50th Running of the White Pine Stampede
50 Years Strong: The White Pine Stampede and a Golden Era of Michigan Cross Country Skiing
On February 7, 2026, the White Pine Stampede celebrated its 50th anniversary. Half a century of gliding through Northern Michigan forests, climbing steady rollers, tucking into finish lines, and warming up afterward with stories that only skiers truly understand.
That kind of longevity does not happen by accident. It happens because of grit. Because of volunteers who show up before sunrise. Because of families who make race weekend a tradition. Because of skiers who come back year after year to test themselves against the course—and maybe against their younger selves.
From Point-to-Point to Pure Northern Michigan
When the race began in 1977, it was a bold 50k point-to-point journey from Frederic to Mancelona. It was ambitious, rugged, and very Michigan.
Today, racers choose from 40k, 20k, and 10k courses stretching from Mancelona High School to Schuss Village at Shanty Creek Resort. The layout has evolved, but the soul of the Stampede remains unchanged: community and perseverance.
There is something beautifully stubborn about a race that survives five decades of weather swings, shifting trends, and changing equipment. The White Pine Stampede has adapted, but it has never lost its identity.
A Vision That Endures
The event traces back to a dream. Gus Konopnicki imagined a marathon cross country ski race spanning multiple counties in Northwestern Michigan. He brought that idea to Jack McKaig of the Mancelona Chamber of Commerce, and together they built something far greater than a single race.
Proceeds from the Stampede continue to support meaningful local causes, including the Iron Vault, Mancelona High School’s free store that ensures students have access to essentials. The event also funds the Jack McKaig Scholarship for graduating seniors.
In other words, every stride forward on race day helps a student take one forward in life. That is a legacy worth celebrating.
Part of a Powerful Northern Michigan Trilogy
The 50th anniversary of the White Pine Stampede is not happening in isolation. This winter marks a golden chapter for Michigan cross country skiing.
In January, skiers gathered in Marquette for the 50th running of the Noquemanon Ski Marathon, affectionately known as “The Noque.” With its Lake Superior backdrop and Upper Peninsula toughness, the Noque has become one of the Midwest’s signature Nordic events.
On February 14–15, Traverse City hosted the 50th annual North American VASA Festival of Races. The VASA has long been a cornerstone of Michigan’s Nordic scene, drawing skiers of all ages and abilities to its iconic courses.
And yes, there are Michiganders who line up for two—or even all three—of these races in a single season. That is not just participation. That is commitment. That is love of sport.
Together, the Noque, the VASA, and the White Pine Stampede form an unofficial triple crown of Michigan cross country skiing. Three regions. Three distinct personalities. One shared spirit.
More Than a Race
The White Pine Stampede is not just about finish times. It is about the volunteer who hands you a cup at the aid station when your legs are questioning your life choices. It is about the high school athlete skiing alongside a veteran racer who has completed 30 of these. It is about the handshake at the finish and the quiet pride that follows.
Fifty years is a milestone. But it is also a promise.
A promise that Northern Michigan winters still matter.
A promise that endurance still counts.
A promise that traditions built on community can outlast just about anything.
Here’s to 50 years of the White Pine Stampede—and to the next 50 of snow, stamina, and stories worth telling.
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A big thank you to Consumers Energy for serving as the headlining sponsor of the White Pine Stampede in Mancelona. Their commitment to Michigan communities and outdoor recreation helps keep this iconic winter tradition thriving for generations of skiers.
We’re also grateful for the support of Short’s Brewing Company and Shanty Creek Resorts, whose partnership adds energy, hospitality, and a true Northern Michigan spirit to race weekend. It takes a community to stage an event like this, and we’re proud to have these outstanding partners leading the way.
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