Dog Sleds History: The Journey Through Time

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All-American Championship Sled Dog Race

In an effort to promote winter recreation in Ely, a dedicated group of individuals and organizations came together in 1969 to explore options. This collaborative effort included resort owners Bob & Shirley Klaesges and Berna & August Seliskar, US Forest Supervisor Brian Stout, business owners Russ Robertson and Dick Marsh, and resident Helen Wegner. They reached out to the North Star Sled Dog Club from the Twin Cities, which provided seasoned experts like Ozzie Bayer, John Cooper, and Gary Lilie as consultants. Ely’s inaugural sled dog race was scheduled for January 17-18, 1970, featuring a purse of $3000 and three race classes. Thus, the All-American Championship Sled Dog Race was born.

By 1971, the All-American race had expanded to 77 teams and more than 1000 dogs competing for a purse of $4250. Spectators, numbering between 18,000 and 20,000, lined Sheridan Street and the race course to cheer on the spirited teams, solidifying the race's status as the largest sled dog race in the Midwest.

In 1972, mushers faced frigid temperatures, with early morning readings at 48 degrees below zero; by race time, it was a still-chilly 35 below. All 109 teams braved the bitter cold for a chance at the $5000 purse. A new accolade, the Mayor’s Cup, was introduced to honor the team with the fastest single-day trail time.

The All-American race weekend kicked off with a Torchlight Parade to the high school, followed by various pre-race events. The Ely Kiwanis Club hosted a Pancake Breakfast on Saturday morning, while the Rotary Club arranged the Saturday evening Mushers Banquet. The post-race Awards Banquet became the highlight of the weekend, with awards now including a Governor’s Cup and the Mayor’s Trophy.

The All-American race continued from 1970 to the early 1990s. By 1990, the event featured six classes with a total purse of $10,000. Entry fees ranged from $20 for the 3-dog class to $80 for the marathon. Snow sculptures were sponsored by the Northern Lakes Art Association, while Wally Fendt provided sleigh rides, and weekend activities included a mutt race, a sled dog weight pull, and the film “Spirit of the Wind.”

History of the Sled Dog

Ely has a rich history of dog sledding, as winter work and travel were historically accomplished with the assistance of sled dogs. These breeds are large and strong, equipped with a double coat of thick fur that protects them in extreme temperatures, making them well suited for the Ely winters.

For thousands of years, sled dogs served as essential working animals, providing transportation and hauling supplies for people in northern climates. They enabled access to areas that were otherwise unreachable due to snow and ice. Initially, single dogs were employed to pull small loads, but as the demand for transporting larger cargo grew, teams of dogs were utilized to share the workload. They even played a vital role in mail delivery!

Today, dog sledding offers thrilling experiences for adventurers seeking unforgettable memories. A dog sled excursion takes you deep into the wilderness—no prior experience necessary! Outfitters in the Ely area provide comprehensive training on how to harness the dogs and guide the sled. Trips can range from family-friendly guided day outings to challenging overnight camping trips for the more adventurous.

Sled dog racing remains a popular sport, with early historical accounts linking it to work. There are stories of races among voyageurs transporting cargo, and the famous Iditarod race celebrates the legacy of the working dog. 

Sled dog racing has a long-standing tradition in Ely as well. From 1970 to the early 1990s, the Ely All American Race made its mark in sled dog history. In its first year, there were 46 entries competing for a $3000 purse. The following year saw entries nearly double, and the race continued to grow, attracting thousands of mushers and spectators to the small town at the end of the road. By 1979, the race's immense popularity prompted the Mayor of Ely, Dr. J.P. Grahek, to proclaim Ely as the Sled Dog Capital of America.

The WolfTrack Classic Sled Dog Race was established in 2006 when a passionate group of sled dog fans decided to revive sled dog racing in a community eager to support this beloved family event. After two years of planning, the inaugural race took place on March 2, 2008, attracting 60 mushers and 420 dogs from Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Canada. The WolfTrack Classic has since become a popular mid-distance race among mushers in the Ely area.