The Wolf Bikepacking Race

  • Date Fri 10th July 2026 - Sun 12th July 2026
  • Time 7:00AM CDT
  • Location Finland, Minnesota
  • Price $316.25
  • Races 1 race
  • Distances Ultra

Event summary

Get ready for an exhilarating adventure at The Wolf Bikepacking Race, taking place from July 10 to July 12, 2026, in the stunning landscapes of Finland, Minnesota! This three-day, 262-mile stage race is perfect for cycling enthusiasts and those eager to immerse themselves in a vibrant bikepacking community.

Starting in Finland, racers will tackle an exciting mix of terrains, beginning with an 89-mile journey to Ely, featuring 3,100 feet of climbing, mostly on well-maintained gravel roads. Day two presents the ultimate challenge with a 106-mile trek to Grand Marais, boasting 4,500 feet of climbing and breathtaking scenery. The final day wraps up the adventure with a 66-mile ride back to Finland, including punchy climbs and a thrilling atmosphere.

With a minimum age of 18, this event promises to push your limits while offering unforgettable experiences in Northern Minnesota's boreal forests. Prepare your bike for an epic ride and join fellow adventurers in this remarkable race!

Organiser's Description

262 Mi // 3 DAY // 2 NIGHT BIKEPACKING RACE
Finland - Ely - Grand Marais - Finland
Event Date: July 10-12, 2026

The Wolf Bikepacking Race is a three day stage race through the heart of Northern Minnesota's boreal forests. The event is designed to be a test of your cycling endurance and also a great way to be part of a bikepacking community.

THE MINIMUM AGE IS 18.

Day 1: Finland to Ely: 89 miles with 3100 ft of climbing, 64% unpaved, 36% paved. Mostly well maintained gravel road. There will be a few miles of rough jeep road. It's a good mix of road surfaces for a first day.

Day 2: Ely to Grand Marais: 106 miles with 4500 ft of climbing, 86% unpaved. Mostly well maintained gravel road. This is the longest stage of the event and you will feel like you are truly in the wilds of Minnesota. An epic route with beautiful scenery. The drop into Grand Marais is one to remember.

Day 3: Grand Marais to Finland: 66 miles with 4000 ft of climbing, 81% unpaved. A beautiful last day of racing filled with a few punchy climbs. Long enough to test you, short enough to get you back home.

NOTE Routes are subject to change due to weather or forest fires. We will update riders about any changes in routes.

We recommend a rig that can accommodate tires widths starting at 45 mm. My preference is a 29er with a tire width of about 2.1-2.3in.

Races

  • The Wolf Bikepacking Race

    Incl. $16.25 Fee

    Fri 10th July 2026 (7:00AM CDT)

    $316.25

    OPENS 02 MAY
    Please note that all Heck of the North Production events (Le Grand du Nord, The Wolf & The Fox, and The Heck of the North) are self-supported. This means very limited assistance from volunteers, no/very limited signage en-route. All riders are required to sleep outside. This means using the sleeping system you carry on your bike throughout the event (tent, bivy, tarp, sleeping bag, etc.) Motels, cabins, pavilions, or other solid-roofed buildings are forbidden. Please adhere to the simple rules of this event. All riders are responsible for carrying the gear that they need for the trip. This means clothing, sleep kit, tools, nutrition and hydration. Riders will NOT need to bring cooking gear. All riders are expected to have a simple odometer or gps device on their bike. Cell coverage is spotty, unreliable/nonexistent on course. Do not rely on your cell phone for navigation. All riders must wear a helmet. We strongly recommend wearing some sort of eye protection, too. Have a backup plan in place. There is NO Wolf sanctioned sag support if you breakdown (physically or mentally) so We will assist as we are able. We have limited volunteers at the checkpoints. In the event of an emergency CALL 911. Drafting (pacelines or riding directly behind another rider) is not allowed. Aero bars are allowed. No E-bikes are allowed. All participants must use a self propelled bicycle (without a motor assist.) Outside support from teams, family, friends is forbidden. Riders ARE allowed to assist other riders if they so choose (nutrition, water, tools, wrenching support, first aid, etc.). Prearranged support will mean disqualification and a public shaming TBD. Please be civil, kind, and friendly to other riders, volunteers and the public. This is not the Tour de France- enjoy yourself, your neighbors and this beautiful part of the world! Always Ride as Far Right as is safe. Please share the road with other cars, ATVs and users! Lastly- please do not litter. Thanks for being good gravel citizens!

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Location

6866 Cramer Road, Finland, 55603, MN, United States

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