NCTraces: Bird Sanctuary

NCTRaces: Bird Sanctuary

NCTRaces: Bird Sanctuary is a trail running event on April 18, 2026 held in the Douglas County Wildlife Area near Solon Springs and Gordon, Wisconsin. The event supports a charitable donation to the Brule-St. Croix chapter of the North Country Trail Association. The course follows the North Country Trail through brush prairie and timber with miles of open fields, wildflowers, ponds, and widespread views. The route is described as 100% North Country Trail and nearly all single track. The area is often among the first local trail sections to clear of snow in spring.

Distances offered:

• 10k out and back to Hwy 53 Trailhead, water only aid
• 20k two out and back sections to both corners, water only aid stations

The 10k runs partly through prairie and partly through timber with mostly rolling hills and one or two steeper sections. The 20k covers the full extent of the Bird Sanctuary with two separate out and back segments that return to the headquarters area between segments. Participant limits are 75 runners for each distance. Registration is available through UltraSignup and may be available in person if spots remain. Registration closes April 16. A few RV sites are available at the headquarters/start/finish area; requests should be made through the race director. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.