About This Race
The Yankee Springs Winter Challenge embraces the unpredictability of Michigan winters, running its 15th edition on rolling single track trails at Yankee Springs State Recreation Area. This established January race offers four distances from 5K to 50K, each designed to test runners against whatever conditions winter delivers. The race draws its character from the variability of the season—runners might face snow, ice, mud, or even bare trails, making each year a unique challenge. The courses wind through beautiful wooded terrain with lake views, offering a scenic backdrop to winter trail running. Aid stations are strategically placed every 2-4 miles on longer distances, providing consistent support through the rolling terrain. The race maintains a welcoming atmosphere with post-race food served in a heated tent, creating a warm gathering point after cold miles on the trail. Organized by Switchback Endurance, the event has built a reputation for reliable organization and consistent course quality over its decade-and-a-half history. The 50K distance allows pacers on the second loop, adding strategic elements for ultrarunners tackling the longest distance in winter conditions.
The courses utilize rolling, mostly wooded single track trails with beautiful lake views throughout Yankee Springs State Recreation Area. The 5K, 10K, and 25K are single loops of increasing distance, while the 50K consists of two complete 25K loops. The terrain is characterized by gentle rolling hills rather than steep climbs, making it accessible to a wide range of runners while still providing elevation challenge.
The single track nature of the trails requires attention to footing, especially in winter conditions where ice, snow, or mud can create additional technical challenges. The wooded setting provides some wind protection but can also create shadowed areas where ice persists longer than on open terrain.
Aid Stations
1 stations along the course
Start/Finish
water, electrolyte, coke, oranges, bananas, sweet snacks, salty snacks
Available for 50K runners between loops
Practical Info
Variable January conditions in Southwest Michigan, ranging from snow and ice to mild temperatures and bare trails.
GRR - Gerald R. Ford International Airport
Various hotels available nearby as cabins at the venue are not available during winter months.
Best For
Notable Features
The race's defining characteristic is its embrace of winter variability, with organizers committing to run regardless of conditions. This creates a unique challenge where race strategy must adapt to everything from bare trails to snow and ice. The Long Lake Outdoor Center location provides a scenic backdrop, and the race's 15-year history demonstrates consistent organization and community support.