Underdown Trail Races attract racers across the nation
Runners flow under the forest canopy. Photo credit: Karry Johnson
MERRILL - The Underdown Trail Races continue to draw racers from across the United States year after year. This year, racers from ten states will be gathering in the Northwoods on August 16 to bike and run through the glacial landscape. The races take place on trails, almost entirely singletrack, that encompass secluded lakes, boardwalks, and up to 75 hills. Racers are often surprised at the challenge of the trails in rural Wisconsin.
The courses begin and end at the Prairie Dells Trailhead, offering runners half-marathon, marathon, and 60K distances and mountain bikers 16, 37, and 110 mile options. The longer routes also include portions of the iconic Ice Age Trail.
Racers are challenged on glacial terrain on 37 miles of trail. Photo courtesy of IRONBULL.
The event began in 1989 by Herb Schotz and is now directed by his son, Chris Schotz. Chris and his wife, Candy, spearhead maintenance and grooming throughout the year on the 40+ mile trail system. Proceeds from this grassroots event are plowed back into the trails with monies from the past two races were used for construction of a new trail and boardwalk improvements.
The event is part of the IRONBULL Race Series and appealed to Lindsey Peeters, traveling from Colorado for the event. “The IRONBULL Race Series is appealing due to the challenging courses that are within reasonable distances from the Madison and Milwaukee areas,” said Peeters. “IRONBULL offers several race options and training opportunities throughout the year, along with various options for race distances. It is the perfect fit for any runner or biker.”
Sidney Sparks is making the trip from California to support her parents at their first ever trail race. Sidney’s parents came out to Oregon in 2022 to see her finish her first 100 mile run and now she wants to be there for them as they embark on a new challenge. “I've run trails around the race course in the past and it's a pretty different style than what I'm used to which is fun,” said Sidney. Sidney will use this event to prepare for another 100 mile run next month.
The grassroots event has received many compliments from racers. Last year, nearly three-quarters of runners traveled beyond 90 miles for the event and it did not disappoint. Based on the anonymous post-event survey, the average overall experience rating for racers was a 4.8 out of 5.0, with all respondents saying they’d recommend the race to others. Additionally, all respondents said they’d return to the trail system with 75% visiting the trails for the first time.
Racers begin at the Prairie Dells and then take on the Underdown Trails. Photo credit: Karry Johnson
Racers also enjoy the camaraderie both on and off the trails. This year, live music from Unchartered Waters and aromas from the Urban Street Bistro food truck will be filling the forest. Racers will put their finisher mug to use with craft brews from Red Eye Brewing Company during the afterparty.
For more race information on the Underdown Trail Races go to https://www.ironbull.org/underdown-details or the Facebook event page. Registration remains open including same day registration.
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025
- Location: Prairie Dells Recreation Area Merrill, WI 54452
- More info: https://www.ironbull.org/underdown-details
- Registration (including day of registration): https://ironbull-signup.redpodium.com/2025-underdown-trail-races
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