Northern Pines Sled Dog Race

February 7th, 2026

Every winter, Iron River, Wisconsin comes alive with the Northern Pines Sled Dog Race (NPSDR) — a thrilling event that draws mushers from across the nation. The Northern Pines Golf Course and Event Center transforms into the heart of the action. 🐾

Surrounded by the majestic pine plantations of Bayfield County and the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, the race delivers an unforgettable experience with heart-pounding Sprint and Mid-Distance Dog Races, the exciting W3PO Canine Weight Pull, and the crowd-favorite Kids Fun Mutt Run. Come join the fun — let’s go dog sledding! 🐾

About the Northern Pines Sled Dog Race

Mushing Together, Embracing Tradition and Community

The Northern Pines Sled Dog Race celebrates the enduring bond between sled dogs and their human partners while honoring the traditions that have shaped this remarkable sport. Our mission is to promote family, community, and environmental values through a beautiful and adventurous winter event that unites participants, volunteers, and spectators alike. 🛷

We are committed to the highest standards of canine welfare, sportsmanship, and environmental stewardship, ensuring our four-legged athletes and their mushers race in an atmosphere of respect and excellence. The Northern Pines Sled Dog Race also serves as a gathering place for youth, families, and local businesses—strengthening community pride and inspiring future generations to carry on the legacy of sled dog sports. 🐾

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Sprint Race

Get ready for an extraordinary adventure! Experience the speed, skill, and breathtaking scenery of the Northern Pines Sled Dog Race — where the dogs are fast, the mushers are determined, and the only thing colder than the snow is the ice in their water bowls.

The Sprint and Mid-Distance Races burst to life with a thrilling downhill dash across the scenic golf course before winding into the Bayfield County Trail system and the Tri-County Corridor. Spectators can wag their tails with excitement as they watch the action from multiple prime vantage points. Trust us — you’ll be howling for more!

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Mid-Distance Race

Mid Distance

The Iron River Area Chamber of Commerce proudly presents the Northern Pines Sled Dog Race (NPSDR) — one of the most exciting winter traditions in northern Wisconsin! Each year, 50 to 70 mushers and their teams of eager canine athletes gather to compete in four thrilling race classes.

The course launches from the scenic Northern Pines Golf Course, where sleds take off in a flurry of snow and barking enthusiasm, before winding into the Bayfield County Trail system and racing along the Tri-County Corridor. It’s a breathtaking journey through the Northwoods — where the crisp air, tall pines, and thundering paws create an atmosphere unlike any other.

Whether you’re cheering from the start line, catching the action at trail crossings, or just soaking in the energy of the teams, you’ll feel the excitement of this community celebration. After all, the dogs may do the pulling, but they’ll also tug at your heartstrings — and leave you howling for more!

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W3PO Weight Pulling Event

W3PO Sanctioned Weight Pulling

Step into the incredible world of canine strength and determination with our one-of-a-kind weight pulling event! Outfitted with custom harnesses, these powerful dogs drag a weighted sled 16 feet across a snow-packed course within a set time limit.

Many canine athletes even pull more than their own body weight — proving they’ve got muscle, heart, and a tail-wagging drive to go the distance. Talk about dogs who truly “earn their kibble!”

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Kids FUN Mutt Run

Kids Fun Mutt Run

Get ready for squeals, giggles, and tails in overdrive — it’s the Fun Mutt Run! Kids ages 4–8 and 9–12 team up with their own furry friends to race down a 75-foot straight course, wind swishing through their hair as playful screams fill the air.

The laughter is contagious, the sudden stop brings wide-eyed grins, and the memory will be one they’ll treasure forever. Parents — have your cameras ready, because this is a photo moment you won’t want to miss. Childhood joy doesn’t get any better than this: a best friend on four paws leading the way!

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Vendors & Food/Drinks

Vendors Plus Warm/Cold Food & Drinks

Free Admission — bring your friends, family, and your love of adventure for a day you won’t forget! Spectators can catch all the heart-pounding action from multiple vantage points, whether cozy inside the warm Clubhouse or along the scenic trail route. From the thrill of the sleds to the excitement in the air, it’s a paws-itively unforgettable experience for everyone!

Stop by to enjoy a hot meal, grab a cold refreshment, or simply warm up from the winter chill. Explore unique offerings from local vendors, and don’t forget to pick up a cozy hoodie or cap — the perfect keepsake to remember your unforgettable day at the Northern Pines Sled Dog Race. Whether you’re fueling up or taking a break, there’s plenty to make your visit paws-itively memorable!

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The Iron River Area Chamber of Commerce hosts the Northern Pines Sled Dog Race at the Northern Pines Golf Course & Event Center. The race features 50~60 mushers in four different classes, C3PO Sanctioned Weight Pull and Kids Fun Mutt Race events.