The WolfTrack Classic Sled Dog Race: A Northwoods Winter Tradition
Northern Minnesota has a rich tradition of using sled dogs. In years past, sled dogs were essential to life and travel during the hard winter months. These days, the tradition lives on in a slightly different way – sled dog racing. Ely, Minnesota in particular has experienced this rich sled dog culture through both work and play. To pay homage to that tradition, Ely began running their now-renowned sled dog race in 1970.
While the Ely sled dog race has evolved over the years, the annual race lives on! Since 2006, this race has been rebranded as the WolfTrack Classic Sled Dog Race. With over 50 mushers who competed across the two races in 2026, the tradition is still very much thriving! If you’ve never experienced the winter thrill that is sled dog racing around Northern Minnesota, this is your sign. Here is what you can expect from the race as well as some places to stay nearby for an incredible, all-around, family-friendly experience.
How to Make the Most of Your Sled Dog Race Trip?
When you show up on race day, there are a variety of things you’ll see. While the race only runs over one day, there is a weekend full of events to meet the teams, have some great food, and hype up the experience of the Sunday race. In 2027, these events will start on Friday, February 26th, with the race set for that Sunday, February 28th. Here is what the WolfTrack Classic Sled Dog Race can offer in the leadup:
WolfTrack Prance
On Friday, the festivities begin with the WolfTrack Prance. A newer event, going into the third annual showing in 2027, the Prance is a great way for volunteers, mushers, and race enthusiasts alike to meet-up and have a drink before the event-filled weekend ahead. Live music and a cash bar with a special menu make for a great Friday evening.
Meet the teams
On Saturday afternoon, you’ll have an opportunity to meet the mushers and their talented teams of sled dogs. This is a great way to unmask the racers and ask your pressing questions. It’s fascinating to get a look under the hood at these coordinated teams of humans and animals working together.
Musher dinner
Saturday night has the incredible musher’s dinner. The fundraising affair features a spaghetti dinner put on by the race club. The food is always great and the price is fantastic!
What to Expect at the Race?
Come Sunday, it’s time for the race. Hopefully you’ve had time to meet the teams and maybe even pick a favorite. Here’s a look at what you can expect on race day itself:
When to arrive
The race starts promptly at 9 AM, you won’t want to miss the exciting start. Getting there earlier, between 8-8:45 AM will give you a shot to see the teams before they set out. A local sponsor, MIDCO, will start giving out free coffee, hot cocoa, and a treat at 8:30 AM to all spectators on the starting line, until supplies run out. This is a great way to kick off an exciting race day!
Viewing the race
While you can stay at the start/finish line, some people choose to move around and get a look at one of the many road crossing points along the route to see the race as it unfolds. There are tons of these spots to check it out, just ensure you park and stand well away from the track itself to avoid any interference.
The races themselves will vary time-wise. The 8-dog race, in 2026, had their first place winner finish in a little over 3 hours and 50 minutes. The shorter 6-dog race had their first place winner finish in a little over 90 minutes. Keep these times in mind such that you can be ready at the finish line for the exciting last stretch.
Why Crane Lake is the Perfect Base for the WolfTrack Classic Sled Dog Race
For the perfect base of operations to plug into the excitement of the WolfTrack Classic Sled Dog Race while preserving a slice of privacy to yourself, you cannot beat Crane Lake. This quiet, beautiful town has some incredible lake-front cabins and campsites to round out a truly unforgettable Northern Minnesota trip. Beyond just easy access to Ely’s sled dog race, there are no shortage of trails to explore, ice fishing to try, and beauty to see around Crane Lake by itself. With all the amenities you need for a great time, this place is a true gem for anyone looking for a new experience, a great getaway, or just an incredible vacation.
Fun for all.
This northeast Minnesota territory is part of Voyageurs National Park and offers many outdoor activities, such as kayaking, biking, hiking, and backpacking. Visitors from all over Minnesota, Wisconsin, and beyond travel to Crane Lake to enjoy the vast wilderness and explore the beauty of its many lakes and waterways. There are many local accommodations from cabin rentals to fishing tours with family fun activities for all ages. Contact us today to learn more about Crane Lake and plan your visit!
Plan Your Trip: Sled Race Excitement Meets Northwoods Journey
Northern Minnesota winters are certainly cold, but that doesn’t stop the people from living their best lives. Every year the mushers and their dog teams return to battle it out on the Ely race track to take home the WolfTrack Classic Sled Dog Race title. If you’re looking to experience this excitement for the first time, or looking to come back for the adventure again, book yourself a place at Crane Lake. Easy access to the race alongside countless other winter activities around Crane Lake makes it truly magical. Sunday, February 28, 2027 is the next WolfTrack Classic Sled Dog Race, book your room at Crane Lake today!
