Lutsen 99er vs Chequamegon 40: Which Life Time Event is the Better Northwoods Challenge?

Life Time Fitness owns two of the most popular MTB races in the Northwoods and today those two races are going head to head in several categories. If one or both of them are on your list, check out the comparison and find out what makes these iconic races beautiful, rugged, and loved by so many.

To learn more, visit Lutsen 99er and the Chequamegon Mountain Bike Festival.

Minnesota’s Lutsen 99er and Wisconsin’s Chequamegon MTB Festival are two of the Midwest’s most iconic mountain bike races, but they offer entirely different experiences. From the history and terrain to the atmosphere and race-day energy, each event reflects the unique culture and landscape of its region.

Chequamegon is one of the oldest mountain bike races in the country, with over four decades of tradition rooted in the early days of the sport. It began as a small local event and has grown into a community-wide celebration that transforms the towns of Hayward and Cable each fall.

In contrast, the Lutsen 99er is newer, first held in 2011, but has quickly become one of the premier endurance events in the region. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Lake Superior and Minnesota’s Sawtooth Mountains, it’s a race built for riders who crave big climbs, long miles, and a deeper connection with nature.

This article compares the two events across several categories, from their origins and course difficulty to community vibes and scenery, to help riders understand what makes each one special. Whether you’re looking for a high-speed sprint through the Northwoods or a grueling long-distance test on the edge of the Boreal Forest, there’s something unforgettable waiting at the start line.

History

As of writing this article, Chequamegon is 42 years old and Lutsen is 14 years old.

Chequamegon is one of the oldest and most iconic mountain bike races anywhere in the United States. It began during the early days of mountain biking, long before the sport reached its current popularity and was dreamed up by Telemark resort employees as an effort to create a post-season tourism draw. The first year had 27 races and the event quickly grew into a beloved tradition.

Lutsen is a much younger event than Chequamegon but saw fast, explosive growth since its modest start in 2011. Founded by Life Time and Peter Spencer, who still directs the event, the very first year had just 70 riders in the 39er and 99er events. Then the next year, it jumped dramatically to 425, followed by 840 in 2013 and 1,200 in 2014. Now the event welcomes over 2,000 cyclists and sells out in advance of the race. Over the years, the race has grown to welcome riders of all skill levels—including families—expanding both its reach and appeal. To accommodate beginners, kids, and intermediate riders, the team introduced alternate routes such as 29, 45, and 59, along with youth events.

Route Difficulty

Both Lutsen and Chequamegon are challenging events but the they are two completely different types of challenges.

Lutsen has several distances but the marquee event, hence the namesake, is the 99 mile race. It caters to endurance riders and is a test of stamina and perseverance for a much longer ride.

Chequamegon's marquee event is the 40 mile race from downtown Hayard to the Birkebeiner starting gate in Cable. Being much shorter, the race is known for it's fast-paced intensity and is more of a sprint for many riders compared to Lutsen's endurance format. While it's a mountain bike race, there is no technical single track which turns it into one long all-out effort for the entire 40 miles.

Landscape & Scenery

Chequamegon and Lutsen take place in two of the most iconic and special regions in their respective states. Lutsen's most defining feature is the proxity to Lake Superior while Chequamegon is famous for the high speed course along the Birkie rollers. The elevation challenge is similar with Lutsen climbing 53.5 feet per mile and Chequamegon climbing 61.4 feet per mile.

Lutsen 99er is located along Minnesota's North Shore. The scenery, the drive, the route, and the towns are all full of stunning views of Lake Superior, boreal forests, and rugged terrain with regular dramatic rock outcroppings.

The race starts with a category 3 climb in Minnesota’s Sawtooth Mountains. Beyond the ridgeline, the course winds through glacially carved terrain, rolling hills, and a landscape dotted with lakes and streams at the southern edge of the boreal forest. Along the way, you'll ride on roads and trails where moose sightings can be just as common as people.

Chequamegon is a mountain bike race but not a traditional one. One glaringly notable thing missing from this mountain bike race is any singletrack whatsoever. Much of the route follows the Birkebeiner ski trail with constant punchy rollers following fast flowing and wide grassy cuts through the forest. There are also several gravel and double track sections sprinkled throughout the race. In general, the climbs aren't as long as Lutsen but total elevation per mile is slightly higher than Lutsen.

While the views are not as scenic as Lutsen's dramatic vistas, the wooded trails and fall colors create a classic Midwest biking atmosphere.

Festivities & Atmosphere

Chequamegon is deeply rooted in community tradition and delivers a full-on celebration of mountain biking. Hayward and Cable rally around the event with cheering crowds and strong volunteer presence. With the race starting at 10am, riders come in hot in a short time frame and the party escalates quickly. The festival atmosphere is vibrant, with music, an expo, and vendors all adding to the experience.

Lutsen 99er has a quieter, more nature-focused atmosphere, set against the scenic backdrop of Minnesota’s North Shore. With the event having a longer distance and catering to people who love long endurance, riders are finishing all day long which makes the event feel like an all day gathering and party.

Lutsen vs Chequamegon

Both Chequamegon and Lutsen represent different corners of Northwoods mountain biking, one steeped in tradition and community celebration, the other rooted in endurance and North Shore wilderness. Choosing between them depends on what kind of ride and race-day experience you're after.

If you're drawn to high-speed racing and historic charm, Chequamegon offers a fast, festive weekend in the Wisconsin woods. If you're seeking a longer, more rugged challenge with sweeping views and a slower rhythm, Lutsen is your ticket. Either way, each event brings riders together in celebration of the sport, the landscape, and the thrill of the ride.