Due to poor snow conditions, the 2024 Northern Pines Sled Dog Race was canceled.
We deeply appreciate your understanding and support during these challenging circumstances. Our commitment to providing a memorable and safe experience remains unwavering, and we look forward to all our dog mushers, volunteers, sponsors and visitors returning to Iron River for the 2025 Northern Pines Sled Dog Race!
The Race Starts and Finishes at the Northern Pines Golf & Event Center, Situated in Bayfield County and the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.
Sprint and Mid-Distance races, W3PO Sanctioned Weight Pull and Kids Fun Mutt Run, are all at the Event Center in Iron River, WI.
Get ready for an extraordinary experience at our upcoming dog mushing extravaganza! The sprint & mid-distance races kick off with a thrilling downhill dash, sweeping through the picturesque golf course before venturing into the captivating Bayfield County Trail system and the Tri-County Corridor. As a spectator, you'll have the incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart-pounding action from numerous vantage points on the expansive grounds of the Northern Pines Event Center, as well as along the trail route. Join us for an unforgettable journey of speed, skill, and natural beauty!
Step into the world of canine strength and determination at our one-of-a-kind weight pulling event! Canine weight pulling showcases the awe-inspiring power of individual dogs, each adorned with a custom weight pulling/freighting harness. With unwavering focus, these remarkable dogs pull carts or sleds laden with weights across various terrains—be it dirt, carpet, snow, or even rails—covering a precise distance of 16 feet, all within a set time frame.
This riveting sport pays homage to a bygone era, harking back to the days when dogs served as vital freight animals, transporting cargo and embodying the spirit of resilience. Join us for a captivating blend of history, strength, and camaraderie that celebrates the incredible bond between humans and their canine companions.
- SPRINT & MID-DISTANCE
- WEIGHT PULL
- KIDS FUN MUTT RUN
Guaranteed Purse of (minimum) $4,000 !
PLACE: Northern Pines Golf & Event Center, Iron River, WI.
DATE: TBD
The race begins at 8:45 a.m.
The Iron River Area Chamber of Commerce hosts the Northern Pines Sled Dog Race (NPSDR) at the Northern Pines Golf Course. The races will feature 50~70 mushers in four different classes and runs through the golf course and then enters into the Bayfield County trail system and the Tri-County Corridor.
This sled dog race is unique as it includes sprint racing teams which are short distance high speeds with mid distance racers which entail longer distances at much slower speeds. These dog powered events are intended to promote the Iron River area and encourage outdoor winter related activities. The NPSDR is a fun family affair and provides for an exciting racing venue for professional and recreational dog mushers.
The four racing divisions include:
- 4 Dog (4.4 miles) Class. Weaving through the mature pine plantations on a trail developed for beginner dog mushers.
- 6 Dog (8.2 miles) Class. A More detailed trail system for the experienced musher.
- Open (17 miles) Class. Weaving through the pines and hardwoods of Northern Wisconsin, be sure to bring your GoPro camera and hold on TIGHT!
- Mid-Distance (32 Miles) Class. A detailed trail system for the experienced musher and a test of physical endurance for both the dogs and driver.
The event is free to come and watch and there are several great vantage points on the Event Center grounds as well as on the trail route. Spectators can warm up in the heated viewing area and enjoy food and drinks. There will be clothing items for sale, 50/50 raffle and vendors on site. The NPSDR attracts mushers from all over the country to hit the trails. Around 2,000 people are expected to come this year to watch the dogs, bringing life to the snowy region.
Interested in volunteering to help out with the race? Would you like to be a sled dog race Volunteer? Please Click HERE and join us!
Come See the Real Heavy Pullers and How Fast and Hard They Can Pull
From express to freight, sled dogs in all sizes. Big or small, we’ll run them all. This will be a maximum weight in the shortest time pulled event that will let you see just how powerful man’s best friend can be. Open to all healthy, fully vaccinated dogs. Proper weight pulling harness required. Pulling distance is 16 feet over packed snow. This will be a W3PO sanctioned event/rules.
PLACE: Northern Pines Golf & Event Center, Iron River, WI.
DATE: TBD
9~10a.m. weigh-in for Weight Pull.
10a.m. Weight Pull starts. Awards presented at the chute.
This Will be a Single Dog, Timed,
Fun Mutt Race
For Your Mini-Musher
Open to kids 4-8 and 9-12 years of age using their very own furry friend to pull them down a 75 foot, straight, course. Dogs must be of reasonable size and healthy. An adult must accompany each child to help handle your dog. Sleds, harnesses, and a pool of dogs “may” be available to borrow by any child that wants to participate but doesn’t have their own dog. However, we encourage participants to bring their own dog as our pool of dogs is limited and we may not be able to accommodate everyone.