BIG BAY, Mich. (WZMQ) – The 34th Annual Honey Bear Classic Ski Fundraiser is set to return to Big Bay on Saturday, February 18th.
The fundraiser gives participants the opportunity to ski or snowshoe on the “Honey Bear” loop, or other trail options around the Big Bay Pathway. The event raises money for the maintenance and upkeep of the trails in the Pathway.
“All trails need to be supported,” said Kristy Mills, who’s on the committee for the Honey Bear Classic. “Where ever you are, and whatever trails you’re utilizing, try to support them the best that you can. They do need funding for the maintenance and the grooming.”
The event is open to all ages and all experience levels, which makes it a perfect weekend event for a family.
“The Honey Bear has been a fun event for the local community, as well as the whole U.P., and anyone that wants to come,” said Mills. “We’ve had visitors come from all over.”
Along with the skiing and snowshoeing, participants can enjoy a warming fire, food and refreshments, a presentation of the “History of the Honey Bear and the Big Bay Pathway,” and a performance by the musical duo Sarah Mittlefehldt and John Gillette.
The Big Bay Pathway trailhead and parking lot is located on Deutsch Avenue, which is two blocks away from the event headquarters at the Thunder Bay Inn.
It costs $25 to register, and you can register a head of time by clicking here, or in person at the event Saturday morning by noon.
This event is made possible with a grant from Travel Marquette, and donations from the Thunder Bay Inn and other volunteers and local businesses. All proceeds help to support the grooming and maintenance of the Big Bay Pathway which is part of the Noquemanon Trail Network.