Prince Haakon 15K
Friday, February 20, 2026
Skate 15K Race / Classic 15K Race
Hayward, WI, USA
The Prince Haakon 15km is named after the baby prince who started it all! Skiers race 15km through the forest on the Birkie Trail, glide across frozen Lake Hayward, and ski over the infamous American Birkebeiner International Bridge towards the finish line on Hayward’s snow-covered Main Street. #Birkie2026
Race Day Schedule
- U20 Boys start at 1:15 pm
- U20 Girls start at 1:20 pm
- Competitive mass start at 1:25 pm
- Relaxed start between 1:25 and 1:35 pm
All start times will be recorded when you ski through the start tower. Winners will be based on chip time and not based on the first to cross the finish line.
Prince Haakon 15K skiers will depart from the start area near Phipps Road, north of Hayward, WI. The first 2-kilometers of the course are 14′ wide with one classic track and one skate lane. The remainder of the course is shared with Kortelopet skiers and is 30′ wide with two classic tracks and two skating lanes. Prince Haakon skiers will ski across Lake Hayward and over the American Birkebeiner International Bridge as they make their way toward the finish line on Hayward’s snow covered Main Street. Cheering crowds and the ringing of cowbells will greet them on Main Street.
Click the image above for PDF map.
Aid Stations
Aid Stations and Cut-off times are still in the works for 2026! Stay tuned for further information and announcements.
There is no parking at the Prince Haakon Start! All participants must shuttle in from the Birkie Ridge Parking Lot.
| Continuous Shuttle Service To & From | Continuous Shuttle Service To & From | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|
| Birkie Ridge Parking Lot | Prince Haakon Start | 11:30am - 1:45pm |
| Recovery Zone Bus Stop | Birkie Ridge Parking Lot | 12:30pm - 5:30pm |
All Prince Haakon finishers will receive a medal when they cross the finish line!
The top three overall women and men will be recognized in a ceremony in the Celebration Plaza at 3:00 pm on Friday. Winners are based on overall, chip time, not the first to cross the finish line. There is no technique distinction in the awards.
Skiers, whether elite or citizen, count on spectators to cheer them on as they set their sights on the finish line. Just when they think they’re fading, spectators provide an emotional lift that encourages them along their way. Catch Birkie Fever!
Where to Watch
Finish Line – Main Street, Hayward
Join the celebration at the Frandsen Bank & Trust Celebration Plaza on Main Street between 3rd and 4th Streets. The first Prince Haakon finishers are welcomed with the ringing of the church bells as they come off of Lake Hayward on to Main Street at approximately 2:00 pm. Good viewing is possible along the length of Main Street.
Parking is available at designated parking lots with shuttle service throughout the day. There is limited street parking with in the downtown area, respect the parking direction signs and utilize the parking lots.
For skier and spectator safety, there are no pedestrian crossings on Main Street. Please use the access under the International Bridge for travel to the other side of the street.
Save the Date:
2026: February 18-22
2027: February 17-21
