John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon Inc

Minnesota's Toughest Tradition

Keep the Legend Running — Support the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon

Each winter, teams of mushers and canine athletes charge across nearly 300 miles of frozen wilderness along Lake Superior’s North Shore — braving fierce winds, snowdrifts, and subzero temperatures. The John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon isn’t just a race.  It’s a living story of endurance, teamwork, and Minnesota grit.

Founded in 1980, Beargrease is the longest-running sled dog race in the lower 48 states — and one of Iditarod qualifiers. The event includes the full Marathon, the Beargrease 120, a 40-mile recreational race, and two youth races — giving young mushers a chance to chase their own trailblazing dreams.

Each January, nearly 70 teams from across the U.S. and Canada compete in this extraordinary event, supported by 400+ volunteers, 20+ veterinarians and vet techs, and thousands of passionate fans.

When you give to Beargrease, you help:

• Preserve a Minnesota Legacy — honoring the spirit of John Beargrease, an Ojibwe mail carrier whose courage and commitment inspired generations.

• Protect Our Canine Athletes — supporting world-class veterinary care along every mile of the trail.

• Inspire the Next Generation — through youth races and educational programs that bring the sport — and its values — into schools.

• Fuel the North Shore Economy — benefiting the small towns and communities the race travels through.

• Celebrate Indigenous Heritage — by sharing the stories and traditions that make this event so deeply rooted in place and purpose.

Join the Pack

This Give to the Max Day, your gift ensures this incredible Minnesota tradition continues to thrive. Every dollar helps us train volunteers, care for dogs, host events, and keep the magic of Beargrease running strong.

🐾 Donate today — keep the trail blazing for the next generation of mushers, dogs, and dreamers.

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