Help us “test ride” the
Pabst Disaster Adventure Bike Race/ Ride/Tour!
2026 marks the 100th anniversary of the Pabst Mine Disaster, one of the worst mine disasters in US history. A massive cave-in at the Pabst G Shaft killed three miners and trapped 43 others. Those miners survived 129 hours with nothing more than their lunches and the water seeping from the walls of the mine to sustain them. Families and the nation waited and worried over five days until the rescuers reached the men from the neighboring H shaft.
Miners Memorial Heritage Park is hosting this “test event” to get feedback on the concept of an adventure race commemorating this amazing rescue. We invite you to do the ride… either solo or as a team. Muscular and e-bikes welcome. After the ride, we’ll get together for snacks to get feedback on this adventure/scavenger hunt ride/race.
Where: Miners Memorial Heritage Park Red Devil Trailhead
When: September 26, 2026. 9 AM – 3 PM. Refreshments following (location TBA).
How: The ride lasts 6 hours—1 hour for each of the nearly six days the miners were trapped underground. Individuals can complete the time solo, or teams of two or three can divide up the 6 hours amongst themselves.
One hour before the start, riders will receive a “manifest” listing the landmarks and trail loops where they collect points. Points are awarded for each lap of a designated loop in Miners Park, and riders can navigate to other trails and area landmarks to collect higher value points. The folks with the highest points at the end “win.” This year is a test ride, so riders are “on their honor” to report their points. (Cheaters never prosper!)
THIS IS AN OPEN COURSE WHEN YOU LEAVE MINERS MEMORIAL HERITAGE PARK! Rule #1: Don’t be a jerk to people and vehicles that you encounter around town. Follow all rules of the road--don’t blow through stop signs or stop lights, stay on the right side of the road, be respectful and announce your presence to pedestrians. Being kind and protecting your life is more important than getting more points.
This is an informal test event, but RSVPs to sueskisbikesclimbs@gmail.com will help us plan for printing course guides and making refreshments… walk-ups still welcome.
PABST MINE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION
TOUR OF THE PABST MINE SITE: BONNIE ROAD TRAILHEAD
Saturday, September 26, 1 pm to 3 pm.
Begin at the Bonnie Street Trailhead. People will be there to guide you.
Ivan Hellen and Tom Kangas will be at ‘G’ and ‘H’ shafts as interpreters
Echoes from the Eighth Level
Ironwood Memorial Building
Saturday Sept 26, 6:30-8:30 pm (Please note early curtain call)
Live Music, Radio, & History Commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the Pabst Mine Rescue
Beneath the Iron Range: Songs performed by Bill Jamerson
The Pabst Mine in the National News: Presented by Ivan Hellen
Five Days Underground: Ray Maurin Radio Play/Video
Miners Park and the Pabst Mine Cave-in: Produced by TV-6 Marquette
(donations accepted)
Project Connect Community Nordic Ski Day Jan 11
- January 12, 2025 9 am - 5 pm
- Hop on and off at various trails connecting ABR to the City of Ironwood and beyond to Bessemer
A Hop-On, Hop-Off, Family Friendly Adventure!
Join us for a day of winter wonderland fun at the Project Connect Community Nordic Ski Day! This unique event invites you to experience the beauty of the Northwoods on a leisurely Nordic ski adventure.
Event Highlights:
Hop-On, Hop-Off: Enjoy the flexibility of hopping on and off at various trails connecting ABR to the City of Ironwood and beyond to Bessemer, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
Family-Friendly Fun: Bring the whole family and create lasting memories as you glide through scenic winter landscapes.
Community Connection: Connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts and foster a sense of community.
Event Details:
Date: January 12, 2025
Time: Open Track from 9:00 am to dusk
Location: All Trails Open (as grooming and conditions allow) from ABR, Norrie Park, Erwin Heritage Park, Miners Memorial Heritage Park, to Bessemer
Trail Conditions: Trail conditions will be updated before the event. Visit ABRSKI.com.
Fee: Trail passes required at ABR and other trails as appropriate
Registration: Please register (free) so that we may document this event and participants
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic of winter and connect with the greater community. Whether you’re a seasoned Nordic skier or a beginner, this event is perfect for everyone!
