The 37th Iceman Cometh Challenge presented by TREK is one of Michigan’s premier mountain biking events, bringing thousands of riders to Northern Michigan for a full day of racing and excitement. Held on the first Saturday in November, the Iceman Cometh features events for riders of all ages and abilities, from the legendary 30-mile cross-country mountain bike race to races designed especially for young and beginning riders.
The main event, the Iceman Cometh Challenge presented by TREK, is an approximately 30-mile, point-to-point cross-country mountain bike race from Kalkaska to Traverse City, Michigan. Riders travel through the scenic northern Michigan woods, tackling challenging terrain and unpredictable November conditions along the way.
The Meijer Slush Cup offers an 8-mile course for beginning and less-experienced riders, while the Meijer Sno-Cone (1 mile) gives children ages 10 and under an opportunity to experience the excitement of Iceman on a course designed just for them. New in 2026, the Meijer PopCycle (1/4 mile) adds a pedal-bike race for kids, giving even more young riders a chance to join the Iceman tradition.
In addition to race day, the Michigan Bicycle Law Ice Cycle EXPO, held the Friday before the races at Grand Traverse Resort in Acme, Michigan, brings together riders, cycling enthusiasts, vendors and sponsors for a weekend of Iceman excitement.
More than 5,400 men and women and 300 children competing across 77 age divisions take part in the Iceman Cometh events, while an estimated 12,000 spectators line the courses to cheer on the riders and experience the excitement of one of Michigan’s most iconic mountain bike events.