Nathan Schroeder and his happy team of sled dogs powered their way to a first place finish in the 2016 John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon. Both Schroeder and 2015 Beargrease champ Ryan Anderson of Ray, Minnesota are entered in the 2017 race.
This year will mark the beginning of the 33rd annual running of the John Beagrease Sled Dog Marathon. From January 29 to Feb. 1 teams of mushers and dogs from all over North America will test their mettle on the 400-mile marathon course that transverses the rugged Sawtooth Mountains. The marathon will start northeast of Two Harbors, head up to the shore as far north as Grand Portage then swing back to finish in Duluth.
Started in 1980 the “Beargrease” is the longest sled dog race in the contiguous U.S. and is a qualifier for the Iditarod race in Alaska. The event contains more than just a marathon, however. It includes the 150-mile mid-distance race (this year finishing at Trail Center), a relaxed Recreation Run, and a junior race for younger mushers.
A great place to see the race would be at the start on Sunday or at the various checkpoints along the race route. Driving instructions to each checkpoint are available at beargrease.com. And remember, if you do go to cheer on one of Cook County’s own mushers, for the safety of everyone involved, pets are not permitted at John Beargrease events. Service dogs enlisted to aid people with disabilities are welcome.
To get your best shot at seeing the action take a look at the tentative checkpoint schedule below.
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