U.P. 200

Every February Michigan’s Upper Peninsula goes to the dogs—literally. That is when dog teams from around the upper mid-west arrive to compete in the U.P. 200. The race begins on a Friday evening in Marquette and proceeds to Grand Marais during the night. After a mandatory rest period, they return to Marquette for a total of 228 miles. Periodically, the dogs are evaluated by veterinarians. If there are any health concerns, the dog is disqualified. The veterinarians are the final authority. The dogs are athletes and enjoy racing. Nothing is more irritating than having another dog sled team pass them on the trail.

After leaving Marquette, the trail wanders along the shore of Lake Superior and past Prince of Peace’s back yard. Being the friendly church that we are, we open our large parking lot to the community. It is still wise to come early as the parking lot quickly fills. Visitors can view the dog teams from the parking lot, but more ambitious individuals can climb a small incline to receive high fives from the mushers as they pass through.

We live in the Upper Peninsula and February gets cold even by Yooper standards. It can be ten or twenty minutes between dog sled teams. Please gather around our bonfire to warm up and enjoy some good conversation. Introduce yourself. This is an excellent time to meet your neighbors. If nature calls, the church doors are open, so you can use the bathrooms. If you get hungry, the local girl scouts normally have hot chili available. Any profit from the chili sale goes to a worthy cause.