Setting goals is easy. Choosing something worth training for is harder. In 2026, the city of Sault Ste. Marie is offering a full calendar of endurance events that give structure to a season — and a reason to show up fit, focused, and ready. If you’re looking for some awesome things to do on two wheels, or two feet, you may want to consider a trip to the area that has become just a bit of a destination recently for fun on the trails.
From winter fat biking to late-season ultra racing, the Soo’s terrain and trail systems host events that range from accessible first-timers to true bucket-list challenges. Are you looking for a cool long-distance goal next year? Or maybe looking for a reason to stay active year-round? Either way these races offer a clear target and a memorable place to hit it.
Sean Ruppel, long-time MTB rider, racer and organizer, sums up what has happened in the area. It’s become a veritable mecca for trail aficionados.
“I’ve been riding in the Sault area for almost 40 years, and seeing the explosion of what was a few rogue trails becoming Ontario’s most comprehensive trail network has been very exciting,” he said. “So much so that it has been host to Crank the Shield:SSM since 2018 and with amazing trails, and some of the nicest people and bike shops in Ontario, it is has fast become my favourite place to host events.
Frozen Toe – February 7
Fat Bike Race: All levels
Winter riding doesn’t stop in Sault Ste. Marie — it adapts. Frozen Toe is a mid-winter fat bike race that makes full use of snow-covered trails and cold conditions. You can choose a shorter 10 km option or take on a much tougher 50 km.
If you’re curious about winter racing, it’s a fun option. Or maybe you’re a seasoned winter fattie, then get to it. Either way, it reinforces the idea that the cycling season doesn’t end when it gets cold— you just gotta change tires. (And bike.)
Community Strong Race Weekend – June 20–21
Road & running events: All levels
Hey, it’s not just bike racing you can do in the Soo. If you like to run, there’s some fun stuff as well. The races of the Community Strong Race weekend include a Marathon (and a Boston Marathon qualifier), a half-marathon, a 10km, a kids race and a fun colour run. The course is flat, which is favourable for times, and takes place on the beautiful Sault Ste. Marie waterfront.
The course shows off the Soo’s waterfront and river views but still presents a true test of skill….
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at Canadian Cycling Magazine…