History of the Silver Spoon

In the early 1970's, cross- country skiers Kjarten Aston-Eikrem and Henry Hollo unearthed a silver spoon while clearing trails at the east end of Deep River. This small shiny treasure became the inspiration for the names ‘Silver Spoon Cross Country Ski Trails' and the ‘Silver Spoon Ski Fest’.

Eikrem and Hollo, both keen skiers of Nordic background, along with other local cross-country skiers organized the first ever Silver Spoon Classic race on Saturday January 20, 1973. The race was held on the Silver Spoon circuit trail with the starting gates located on the lands just east of Deep River. A total of 25 participants entered in 5 available categories.

Since its inception the Silver Spoon race has grown in size and in popularity, hosting in peak years over 300 race participants. It has offered an entire weekend of events, including a Saturday evening buffet and at various times, a dance, Sunday loppet and an orienteering event. Since 1975 the Silver Spoon Ski Fest weekend has been managed by the Silver Spoon Organizing Committee, a branch of the Deep River Cross Country Ski Club.

The small silver spoon found by Eikrem and Hollo is now displayed on the Silver Spoon Trophy. It is awarded each year to the fastest male and female classic style racers.