The rugged wilderness of northern Wisconsin set the stage for the 2025 Stubborn Mule Adventure Race, a grueling endurance event that drew 75 teams to Cable for a 24-hour test of physical and mental fortitude. As part of the Adventure Racing World Series (ARWS) North America circuit, the race combined trekking, mountain biking, and paddling across approximately 150 kilometers of unmarked terrain, challenging participants to navigate using only maps and compasses.
Organized by 180 Adventure, the Stubborn Mule offered three race durations—5-hour, 12-hour, and 24-hour—catering to both novice and seasoned adventure racers. The 24-hour race, the event’s premier challenge, served as a qualifier for the United States Adventure Racing Association (USARA) National Championship and the 2026 ARWS World Championship, providing top teams with opportunities to compete on national and international stages.
“Adventure racing is about more than just physical strength; it’s about problem-solving, endurance, and working cohesively as a team,” said the race director. “Events like the Stubborn Mule showcase the spirit of adventure and the growing interest in outdoor endurance sports.”
The race’s course, kept secret until a week before the event, spanned dense forests, winding rivers, and challenging elevations, reflecting the diverse terrain of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Teams of two to four members navigated checkpoints scattered throughout the landscape, making strategic decisions on route choices and time management. The unsupported format required teams to carry all necessary gear, emphasizing self-reliance and meticulous preparation.
Participants praised the event’s organization and the camaraderie fostered among competitors. “The PEOPLE, volunteers, the organization, the maps, and the entire experience hooked all 4 of us. Absolutely Loved it!!!” shared a member of Team Mud Dobbers.
The Stubborn Mule is a key fixture in the Wisconsin Adventure Racing Series, which features races across Wisconsin, Illinois, and Minnesota. The series aims to promote adventure racing by offering varied race formats and durations, encouraging participation from a broad spectrum of athletes.
Adventure racing, a sport that combines multiple disciplines such as navigation, trekking, mountain biking, and paddling, has seen a resurgence in popularity. Events like the Stubborn Mule attract athletes seeking challenges that test endurance, strategy, and teamwork in natural settings. The sport’s growth is further supported by organizations like USARA and ARWS, which provide structured competition and community support for racers.
As the sun set over Cable, Wisconsin, the 2025 Stubborn Mule Adventure Race concluded, leaving participants with a sense of accomplishment and stories of perseverance. The event not only tested the limits of human endurance but also highlighted the enduring appeal of adventure racing in the American Midwest.