January 25, 2026, kicks off the 41st running of the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon. Established in 1980, it is the longest sled dog race in the lower 48 states. Named in honor of John Beargrease, the Ojibwe mail carrier who delivered post via dog sled along the north shore in the late 19th century (and is largely credited with keeping the remote communities of Cook County connected at that time), the event remains a qualifier for the Iditarod. The full marathon will begin in Duluth on the 25th and end in Grand Portage (estimated timing is first dog teams in on Tuesday. Learn more here). 

This year’s predicted extremely cold temperatures contrast with the 2025 race. Last year, organizers were forced to postpone the race until March and relocate the start to Two Harbors due to "deteriorating snow conditions" at their usual start line in Duluth. In 2024, the race was ultimately cancelled due to warm temperatures and a lack of snow. 

While human spectators may find the below-freezing actual temperatures and wind chills challenging, these conditions are optimal for the dogs. In a 2025 article from Boreal Community Media freelance writer, former sled dog handler, and former John Beargrease Sled Dog Race Board Member, Brittany North, writes, "Sled dogs are physiologically built for the cold." Because they only shed heat through their paws and panting, warmer weather carries a high risk of overheating. "When it gets above freezing, they can overheat more quickly, leading to heat stress, decreased performance, and potential health issues," she said, before adding, "Mushers also feel the impact of warmer conditions, as they need to stay alert and adjust their strategies to keep their dogs safe and performing well."

Local mushers Erin Altemus, Anna Hennessy, and Mary Manning plan to race the full marathon this year. Erin Aili, the 2025 winner, will also be racing (Altemus placed second in 2025). 

For those hoping to catch a glimpse of the mushers and dogs in action, aside from bundling up in lots of layers, the Beargrease website offers official tips for spectating. For those who want to stay indoors or who can't make it in person, beargrease.com will offer live GPS tracking.