February 8 - 9, 2025

North American Vasa

a Traverse City Tradition since 1977

The North American Vasa is a two-day event featuring Nordic skiing, fat tire bike and snowshoe races. These races take place on the groomed Vasa Pathway and winter sports single track trails of the Pere Marquette State Forest in Grand Traverse County.

All ages and abilities are welcome at the North American Vasa.

Races start and finish at Timber Ridge Resort which features a permanent lodge.

The 2025 contingency plan location for the North American Vasa will take place at the Hickory Hills Recreation Area.

Congratulations to all the racers and thank to all of our volunteers.

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Congratulations to all the racers and thank to all of our volunteers. *

The Vasa Raptors

The Vasa Raptors are raising funds to support their athletes at the Michigan High School Nordic State Championship in Houghton, on February 28-March 1, 2025. Your contribution will help offset the costs of travel and lodging for those for whom this event presents a financial burden, as well as cover the cost of a team dinner/event to strengthen team cohesion.

We’d like to highlight the significance of junior Nordic skiing to the health of the North American Vasa, with the top two finishers in the 2025 races, being former Raptors skiers.

The mission of the Vasa Raptors is to provide young skiers with the opportunity to develop high-level skiing technique while fostering a lifelong passion for the sport—one that keeps them engaged in local races like the North American Vasa.

In memory of Woody Woodburne

1940-2025

the North American Vasa dedicates the 2025 Races to the memory of long-time Vasa supporter, volunteer, racer and friend, Dr. James 'Woody' Woodburne.

Woody's family has suggested donations to the North American Vasa in his memory

Woody Woodburne, stand in the middle of his two sons, Jimmy,  left and Tim, right.
Jim Woodburne with his sons, Jimmy, left and Tim, right

Donations may be made by clicking the DONATE button below, or by sending a check payable to:

North American Vasa

c/o Bud Huber 3954 Arlington Dr.

Williamsburg, MI 49690-9208.

The North American Vasa is a 501c3 organization and contributions are tax-deductible.

Support the Vasa Tradition

The North American Vasa is fueled by the humble spirit of volunteering which has made the Vasa community what it is today. Since the first Vasa race in 1977, we have grown into the premier winter event for Nordic skiers, winter bikers and snowshoers of all levels in northern lower Michigan. The Vasa continues to thrive because of the dedication of our generous volunteers from the Traverse City community. Your support and involvement will continue to help us promote a healthy and active outdoor lifestyle, creating economic and social benefits for youth, families, and serious competitors alike.

Experience the joy of the Vasa community and join us as a volunteer today!


Since 1977, the North American Vasa has been a tradition in the Traverse City community.

Your support helps us to maintain and improve this event .

If you would like to schedule a conversation about sponsorship, please contact vasainfo@vasa.org