This iconic event, which began in February 1990, has become a cornerstone of winter sports in the Upper Peninsula, drawing mushers and spectators from across North America. As an Iditarod qualifier, the UP200 is more than just a local event — it’s a steppingstone for mushers aiming for the legendary Alaskan race.
The UP200 is a grueling 12dog race that covers 228 miles through the rugged and snowy terrain of Marquette and Alger counties.
Alongside the UP200, the Upper Peninsula Sled Dog Association also stages the Midnight Run, an eight-dog race spanning 82 miles, and the Jack Pine 30, a six-dog, 26-mile sprint, offering challenges for mushers of varying experience levels.
The UP200 starts on Friday evening, Feb. 14, at the intersection of Fourth and Washington streets in downtown Marquette, transforming the city into a hub of winter excitement.
“This year the weather has cooperated,” said Darlene Walch, president of the UPSDA. “We’ve got good snow coverage from Marquette to Chatham and Grand Marais, as well as on the Jack Pine 30 trail in Gwinn.”
The return of the race has sparked enthusiasm among mushers. “After the two-year hiatus, mushers are eager to get back on the trails,” Walch said.
One of the race’s most charming aspects is its connection to the small communities it traverses, including Grand Marais. With a population of just 300, the town has served as the UP200 turnaround point since 2003.
Remarkably, over one-third of Grand Marais’ residents — more than 100 volunteers — come together each year to make the event a success, showcasing the community spirit that defines the race.
“Some mushers have been coming to the UP200 for nearly 30 years,” Walch said, highlighting the event’s loyal following.
But there’s more to race weekend than just the sled dog teams. The Mush Bus offers spectators a chance to ride from Marquette and Munising to Grand Marais, coinciding with the teams’ arrivals at the halfway checkpoint.
“Grand Marais has a spectacular winter festival that day,” Walch said, “and the Mush Bus includes a tour guide who shares historical tidbits along the route.”
For those seeking a more intimate sled dog experience, the Jack Pine 30 in Gwinn offers a closer view of the dogs and equipment. “Smaller teams make for a great spectator experience,” Walch said.
The economic impact of the UP200 is significant, bringing an estimated $2 million to Marquette and Alger counties. Local businesses benefit from the influx of visitors, and the 2025 event is drawing participants from Minnesota, Maine, Wisconsin, Michigan, New Hampshire, Quebec, New Brunswick and Ontario.
With more than 800 volunteers needed to make the weekend possible, the UP200 exemplifies the region’s strong community spirit.
“We have volunteer opportunities indoors and outdoors, all weekend long,” Walch said.
For more information, including a list of registered mushers, a full schedule of events and volunteer opportunities, visit UP200.org.
