History of the Trenary Outhouse Classic

The Trenary Outhouse Classic began in 1994, sparked by a familiar feeling in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula: winter had worn out its welcome, and the community needed something—anything—to break the cabin fever. Local Yooper and idea man Toivo Aho came up with a notion equal parts simple and ridiculous: build outhouses, mount them on skis, and push them down Trenary’s Main Street. It didn’t need hills, speed records, or fancy equipment—just snow, determination, and a good sense of humor. The idea stuck.

That first year, a handful of homemade outhouses rolled onto the street. Some were sturdy, some shaky, and a few looked like they might tip over before the starting whistle. Teams lined up behind their creations, gripped the push bars, and sprinted down a straight stretch of Main Street while crowds laughed, cheered, and wondered what exactly they were witnessing. A tradition was born.

What started as a lighthearted winter distraction grew quickly. Each year brought bigger crowds, wilder designs, and more teams eager to claim bragging rights. The Classic became a beloved annual gathering—a chance for Trenary to show off its creativity, its humor, and its hardy spirit in the heart of deep winter.

But the heart of the event goes beyond the spectacle. As the Classic grew, so did its purpose. The proceeds raised each year are donated directly back into the community—supporting local organizations, youth programs, volunteer groups, township needs, and projects that keep Trenary thriving. Every push, every laugh, every sponsor, and every team contributes to something bigger than the race itself. The Outhouse Classic has become both a celebration and a fundraiser—proof that a quirky idea can make a meaningful impact.

Today, thousands of spectators and participants travel from across Michigan and beyond to witness the race that proudly refuses to take itself too seriously. The rules remain as charming as ever: build an outhouse, mount it on skis, keep a seat inside, and push it down Main Street faster than the next team. No downhill slopes, no engines, no gimmicks—just pure Yooper ingenuity and the joy of a community coming together in the middle of winter.

More than three decades later, the Trenary Outhouse Classic stands as one of the Upper Peninsula’s most unique and beloved traditions. It’s a reminder that even the simplest ideas—powered by teamwork, humor, and community pride—can last a lifetime.