InSayner Bike Race to Deliver Big Adventure This Saturday

The Northwoods offers an extensive network of mountain biking paths, and the number of trails has been growing in recent years thanks to the dedicated members of Lakeland Area Mountain Biking Organization (LAMBO).

For those who have ventured deep into the lush forests of Vilas County on two wheels, odds are that trail was built or maintained by the riding enthusiasts that comprise the group. LAMBO exists to "promote mountain biking as a fun and healthy outdoor activity by building and maintaining great trails," according to the club's mission statement. 

But that enthusiasm doesn't stop with mountain biking trails. From cross-country skiing and showshoeing, to trail running and hiking, its members are avid silent sports lovers. That love is exhibited by the care they take and the time they dedicate to making their trail systems a special experience for all users.

In that spirit, the club is working to expand its Musky Mountain bike trails, and is asking the public to support its goal either by taking part in its matching grant campaign or by signing up for this weekend's InSayner Adventure Bike Race.

Musky Mountain Bike Trails

Musky Mountain is LAMBO's newest venture. Located in between Boulder Junction and Sayner, just off of Highway N on Plum Vitae Road, Musky Mountain is in close proximity to both Crystal Lake and Musky Lake campgrounds. When completed, the system is expected to offer 15 miles of trail for all skill levels.

The club completed the first 5 miles of the system in October 2023, which consist of machine-built, flowy trail designed for accessibility and fun. The trail is suitable for riders of all skill levels with smooth lines and some faster sections to make it enjoyable for those with more experience. Also featured are optional jumps, tall berms, and some hand-built technical trail to help riders hone their skills.

Construction is now underway on the 3 miles of Phase Two, which "takes the excitement up a notch with gravity-fueled downhill trails that cater to the thrill-seekers." Built along the dramatic slopes of Musky Mountain and its neighboring ridgelines, these trails are designed to deliver heart-pounding speed and adrenaline.

"Expect steep descents, mandatory jumps, and large berms that keep you cruising at high speeds. One of the standout features of this phase is the trail that challenges you to 'fly' over Crankbait, providing an unforgettable experience for riders who love to push the boundaries."

Phase Three is slated for 2026, when LAMBO will finish the final 6.8 miles of trail which will provide some more beginner- and intermediate-friendly trails, bringing riders to the glacial valleys and breathtaking views of West Plum Lake.

Support Trails by Going 'InSayner'

The club has made an impressive start to the project, but in order to keep it moving LAMBO has launched a capital campaign in addition to seeking funding from various grant opportunities. While monetary contributions are appreciated as part of the $10,000 matching grant, that's not the only way supporters can help. Those with organizational, fundraising or grant-writing skills are welcome to pitch in.

But perhaps the most fun way to get involved is to jump on your bike and sign up for the upcoming InSayner Adventure Bike Race coming up this Saturday, June 14. The race will be headquartered at the Sayner community building, located at 3019 Sayner Ave. with check-in beginning at 8 a.m. Races will begin at 10 a.m. followed by an awards ceremony and raffles at 1:30 p.m.

Three ride options are on the menu for the InSayner, which takes place in the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest — the No-See-Um Family Ride, the Swarm Adventure Ride, and the InSayner Adventure Race. Organizers warn the Adventure Race is not for the faint of heart.

"The InSayner will be a challenging but fun race that, to the bitter end, will throw you an occasional gut punch," stated race director Mike Olkowski.

The 25-mile race starts at the Sayner Community Center and travels down snowmobile trails to Musky Mountain before continuing down Plum Vitae Road to another snowmobile trail. This hits Vandercook Road a few times before continuing to Klondike Road and on to Ross Lake Road, then following snowmobile trails back to the start.

Those brave enough to undertake the InSayner Adventure Race are given a word of warning from Olkowski: "No cursing, and don’t forget to sign the waiver. Remember, you chose this."

Another option is the Swarm Adventure Ride — a "12-mile backwoods biking adventure" where participants will "ride snowmobile trails, sweet stretches of downhills, logging roads, gravel roads, a small stretch of blacktop, and a few other surprises that may dampen an average rider's spirit," Olkowski noted.

Lastly, the more family-friendly No-See-Um Ride will begin at 10:05 a.m. Olkowski said this 3.5-mile is a much shorter ride suitable for kids and families.

"But this is the InSayner, so there is definitely some adventure on the course!" he warns. "You get to cross a bridge over Plum Creek on the way out, and on the way back in, you get to cross Plum Creek again — this time without a bridge." But riders are urged not to worry, as LAMBO will have people at the crossing to help any No-See-Um riders who want or need it.

Costs vary depending on race choice. Early bird pricing for the InSayner Adventure Race costs $45; the Swarm Adventure Ride, $20; and the No-See-Um Ride, $10. Registration will also be open starting at 8 a.m. the day of the event.

All funds raised will go toward the Musky Mountain trail building project. Organizers note that bike helmets are required for all LAMBO events.

Registration will be open until Friday, June 13 for those willing to brave the elements and take part in these rides. More information on this and other LAMBO happenings can be found at lambo.rocks/events/insayner or by finding the group on Facebook. Anyone who cannot attend the race but would like to support the Musky Mountain trail building should click the donation link above or drop a check in the mail to: Lakeland Area Mountain Bike Organization, PO Box 2106, Woodruff, WI 54568.

In addition to Musky Mountain, LAMBO supports the Raven Trail at Clear Lake in Woodruff; the Zip Trail in Minocqua; Shannon Lake Trail in St. Germain; and Sucker Springs in Eagle River. These include hand-built, technical single track and machine-built flow, trails for all skill levels, groomed winter fat-biking trails, skills park and pump track, epic elevation (at least for northern Wisconsin) and scenery. Many are also groomed for winter use.