Sports club continues love of cross-country skiing and community with expanded offerings for all sea

IOLA, Wis. - Have you ever been driving through the state and come upon a tall structure that looks like the most epic slide you have ever seen? And then you wonder, how do you attempt that thrill-seeking descent and who would want to? 

That epic slide, towering in the sky is actually a Nordic ski jump. The members of Iola Winter Sports Club answered that question for thrill-seekers over 100 years ago with the construction of their ski jumps. The club, located at E398 County Road MM in Iola, is home to four ski jumps. There are two smaller “beginner” jumps and two larger competitive the jumps. The largest being a 60 meter that jumpers hurdle themselves off in search of the perfect jump. The 60 meter is named after the one and only Chet Krause who helped fund the massive structure in 1996. In Krause’s younger days, he was one of those thrill-seekers, testing out the smaller jumps. 

If you’re interested in learning about the sport of cross-country skiing and ski jumping, and maybe even trying it yourself, then the Iola Winter Sports Club is where you want to be. Happening this weekend is the Iola Winter Carnival, featuring many activities at the sports club and in downtown Iola. The carnival will be capped off with the Central Wisconsin Ski Jumping Championship on Sunday. The full list of events can be found on the club’s website. 

But even if you can’t make it to Iola this weekend, there is still a full season of Nordic skiing and ski jumping waiting for you. The club sells day passes and memberships. There are classes for youth and always several volunteers on hand to help get you out onto the trails. 

“The club has an incredible history from its founding back in 1910,” said board member Tim Corcoran. “That history has been an important foundation keeping the love of Nordic skiing and many other silent sports available for all to enjoy. We are proud of our history. We are grateful to be able to share that with our community and look forward to expanding that access and opportunity for generations to come.” 

The facility has expanded over time. In addition to the ski jump, there are over 20 kilometers of trails available for cross-country skiing. Parts of the trail system are also available for hiking, running and mountain biking. There is also a chalet and equipment that can be rented. Area schools bring students each year to learn how to ski and when they get to high school, begin competing. 

The many trails are also available to use in all other seasons. There will be a spring trail 5K race and a summer full of biking and running events. As for those who might want to enjoy nature at a slightly slower pace, a segment of the beautiful Ice Age Trail runs through the heart of the club’s land. The club is truly a one-stop shop for all your silent sports interests.  

“The club has really grown into a year-round silent sports experience,” said club operations manager Morgan Pease. “The trails and facilities, along with our amazing crew of volunteers create the best experience to enjoy silent sports in Central Wisconsin.” 

You will want to follow this organization because more is on the horizon. There are several winter events still slated to occur. The fun continues even when the snow does not. Connect with the organization through their website and social media to learn more about all of the silent sports activities and events.