Hayward, WI (May 2, 2023) – The American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation (ABSF) is excited to announce their partnership with One Track Mind (OTM) Foundation to complete the development of approximately 17 miles of mountain bike trails at Mt. Telemark Village, in Cable, Wis. This partnership, in addition to existing funds received from the Trek Foundation, ensures construction will be completed over the next three to four years. Upon completion, the looped trail system will feature around ten miles of enduro and downhill style trails and seven miles of cross-country style trails, with a final estimated cost of over $1 million.
When ABSF purchased the Telemark property, planning for mountain bike trails ran parallel with plans to revamp the cross country ski trails, add a paved recreational path, and build a new Base Camp outdoor center. Modern flow and technical trails, combined with the already incredible Chequamegon Area Mountain Bike Association (CAMBA) singletrack network, will make the Cable area a nation-wide destination for off-road cycling. For more than a decade, mountain bikers have daydreamed about the potential for trails at Mt. Telemark, and thanks to the help of partners like OTM and the Trek Foundation, that dream is being realized.
ABSF worked with Rock Solid Trail Contracting, based in Copper Harbor, Mich., to develop a four-phase plan that will provide a new style of riding in the area. Phase one was completed and open to the public during the fall of 2022. It features about 3 miles of trails, including a beginner loop called “Once” — which starts near the Birkie Trailhead, and an intermediate trail called “Evenflow” that connects to existing CAMBA trails.
Phase two construction will take place during the summer of 2023 around the historic Mt. Telemark ski area. Trail builders are expected to arrive on site mid-May to evaluate the terrain, with construction beginning as soon as conditions allow. Phase two will feature the first gravity-oriented downhill and enduro style trails in the area. These trails will be connected to existing cross-country trails and cater to all ability levels. Once open, trail access will occur primarily from the Base Camp at Mt. Telemark Village, which will serve as a year-round hub for outdoor recreation. ABSF is breaking ground on the 15,000 square foot Base Camp building during the summer of 2023.
Future phases for the Trek Trails at Mt. Telemark Village Powered by OTM includes plans for a balance bike track for the youngest of riders, pump track to be enjoyed by all, skill-building loop, drop/jump zone, and slopestyle area. This set of diverse amenities will put the Trek Trails at Mt. Telemark Village Powered by OTM on all midwestern riders’ bucket lists.
OTM connects land managers, trail builders, local youth, and provides funding for singletrack mountain bike projects throughout the United States. The Trek Trails at Mt. Telemark Village Powered by OTM is one of the first projects they’re affiliated with in the state of Wisconsin, furthering OTM’s mission of expanding singletrack opportunities in the US.
“Riders are going to be pumped about this one! This initiative was no small feat, and the final product promises to be an outstanding experience for the community,” said Tracy Paradise, CEO One Track Mind Foundation. “This trailhead hub will consist of a bike shop, food & beverage, and on-site hotel; plus dog friendly trails and features designed for all skill levels. We are thrilled to bring this vision to life and cannot wait for the community to enjoy these innovative trails!”
“We are more than excited to partner with OTM to bring a modern riding experience to the Cable area”, said Joe Vadeboncoeur, Birkie Bike Coordinator. “Partnering with the Trek Foundation and now OTM will allow us to fully develop the mountain bike park at Mt. Telemark Village. When combined with the CAMBA trails, our area will be considered the premier riding destination in Wisconsin, offering both cross-country and enduro style riding.”
Access to the Trek Trails at Mt. Telemark Village Powered by OTM will be free. Cyclists and trail enthusiasts are encouraged to support the continued development and stewardship of the trails by becoming an ABSF member. Supporters may also donate specifically to phase two of Mt. Telemark Village. Learn more about this project at https://bit.ly/trektrails.
Posted May 2, 2023 at 2:00 pm
