Copper dog 150 dog sled races vs snowmobiling

[MJL]

How bad does the sled dog races tie up the snowmobile trails on that weekend north of Calumet? It is a matter of using trails they are not on that day?

 

[nadekeys]

Usually isn't bad, they have race maps at all the stops and just ask that you take different routes at the times the dogs are going to be on those particular trails. They usually try and route the race so you can still get to all the destinations on the sled trails. Worst case is you come up on the tail end of the dogs and you have to go slow until the next turn off.

 

[Admin]

Not bad at all. When they first proposed running the race on the snowmobile trails, I pushed very hard for the trails to be closed because I thought it was the only way for it to be safe for all. I was dead wrong. They run this race very well. The trails that they will be using each leg of the race are well marked and posters are all over the place to give that info. There are snowmobiles on the trails directly ahead and behind the pack of racers to alert you that the teams are there. The dogs are very used to snowmobiles, so you do not have to stop to let them go by, but obviously slowing down is a courteous thing to do. I have talked to many a snowmobiler that has been up riding when the races are going on and they not only say it is not a problem, but one of the coolest things they have ever seen while riding. I know several folks that come up that weekend, just to catch the races.

-John

 

[MJL]

Thanks for the great info. Finally get the chance to ride north of bridge for 2-3 days and take our time doing it and didn't want to be impeded to bad. Yes this will be cool to the sled dogs in action at the same time.

 

[dickmsp]

how much is a dog sled trail sticker?? Oh dang, does each doggie need a sticker on its forehead??

 

[clark_w]

What John said is so true, we have been up there the last couple of years to take in the Copper Dog, what a great experience. Being downtown Calumet on Friday night to take in everything from the outside music, food and beverage, fireworks and of course, the dogs. We headed up to Copper on Sunday and when we meet the dogs on trail, we pulled over shut sleds off, grabbed our camera and enjoyed being up close to the silence of the dogs and mushers as they passed. We even helped at one of the road crossing and participated in the "human fence" to keep the dogs going down the trail. All in all, a great experience and we can't make it up this year but one we will most definitely do again.

CW

 

[favoritos]

We have been up there during the race a few times. It is funny to see straw on the streets in town. (Make sure the poop is frozen when walking around the straw)

Much of the race "only" crosses the trail. It is fun to shut down the sleds and watch the teams pass.