February 17, 2005 – The Gunflint Trail Association presents the first
annual Winter Tracks, a festival to celebrate snow, winter, and the bounty of outdoor recreation that awaits visitors to the Gunflint Trail. Some of today’Äôs most popular winter pastimes, including dog sledding,
cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing were once vital to
survival in Minnesota’s northernmost woods, and are firmly rooted in the unique traditions and culture of the Gunflint Trail.
Area resorts and outfitters open their doors (and outdoors) for a variety
of winter events for the whole family throughout the week of February 23 -March 1. The Winter Tracks schedule of activities includes: Cross Country, Snowshoeing, Sled Dog Rides, Winter Tracks Day on
Gunflint Lake, Ice Fishing & Wildlife Seminars, History Presentations, Yurt Dinners, Winter Traditional Crafts Workshops, Sledding, Snow Sculptures, Food, and more.
Winter Tracks is timed to coincide with the Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon.
On March 1, sled dogs and mushers make a layover at Trail Center on the Gunflint Trail. The Beargrease is an annual race that honors the historic mail run of the Gunflint Trail’s first postman,John Beargrease.
All of the events are open to the public, and most are offered free of
charge. Participants may register at the Gunflint Trail Info Center in Grand Marais, or at any participating Gunflint Trail Association member resort or outfitter.
For a complete calendar of Winter Tracks events, printable daily schedules, and information about lodging, visit
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