Last year, the Bearskin Lodge hosted its inaugural “Gunflint Scramble” bike race, and it was a huge success. This year they are back and better than ever. Quinn McCloughan, owner of Bearskin Lodge and race organizer, talked with Boreal Community Media about the race and why he decided to start it in the first place. 

“We've been riding mountain bikes on the mid-trail ski and snowmobile trails for years and thought it would be fun to promote and share the trails with more people.  Because of the terrain and established trails, there is a lot of potential for off-road riding in the area,” said McCloughan. 

Compared to last year the race will remain mainly the same. The route is a challenging and scenic 20-mile course, containing a variety of different elevations (resulting in some big climbs) throughout area ski and snowmobile trails. This provides racers an opportunity to not only challenge themselves but also see beautiful sights and take in astounding views. 

“While not overly technical, it's not something you'd want to ride a gravel bike on,” described McCloughan. There may be some minimal course changes due to logistics, but for repeat participants, it won’t be anything very new. 

As an incentive and prize, winners of both the men’s and women’s sectors of the race will be awarded a gift certificate for Bearskin Lodge. Additionally, a lottery-style picking system will choose random numbers, and participants who finish with the corresponding place to win other prizes. These include items from Cedaero—a popular bikepacking company— Joynes Ben Franklin, and more.

While Bearskin Lodge is the primary sponsor of the race, Golden Eagle Lodge is hosting the on-course aid station, and Johnson Foods and Huma Gel are providing food and nutritional products at both the aid station and the finish line. 

To mix things up a bit this year, they are implementing a pancake breakfast before the race. Apart from being a great chance to get a tasty meal, it is also a philanthropic effort to raise money for a new youth mountain bike team.

McCloughan spoke about his vision for the future of the race and wanting to not only continue but grow it each year. The race will not only promote healthy competition but also give people a chance to race between bigger races like the Lutsen 99er.