40th John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon officially underway

GRAND MARAIS, Minn. — After a 14 month delay due to weather and trail conditions, the 40th John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon is underway.

18 teams of dogs and mushers are competing along this year’s 264 mile route as fast as they can.

Weather conditions have made running the 40th a challenge. It was scheduled to take place last year, but the record warm temperatures and very low snowfall last winter delayed the race to 2025.

Even this year, the traditional January start was pushed back to Sunday due to low snowfall totals to start this winter, which created unsafe trail conditions for teams to race on. Additionally, the race had to be shorted in length due to last week’s spring-like warmth, as organizers moved the starting point from its traditional spot at Billy’ Bar in Duluth to The Pit in Two Harbors.

All teams are trying to reach the finish line, which remains at Grand Portage Lodge and Casino, sometime Tuesday.

13 teams are also competing in this year’s Beargrease 120, which will finish up later tonight at Trestle Inn in Finland.

For the latest information on the race and where the teams stand, visit their website here.