CopperDog 15 Race
The CopperDog 15 is a welcoming, single-stage sled dog race covering 15.9 miles on a counterclockwise loop in Copper Harbor, making it an ideal option for newer teams and developing mushers. Designed as a 6-dog race with the flexibility to start with as few as four dogs, it balances accessibility with the excitement of race day. Run on Saturday afternoon, the CopperDog 15 offers a supportive, community-focused atmosphere while still delivering the challenge and energy that define CopperDog weekend.
2026 Copper Dog 15 – Who’s Registered?
6-DOG RACE WITH THE ABILITY OF PARTICIPATING EVEN IF YOU SHOW UP WITH ONLY FOUR DOGS. OPEN TO TEEN MUSHERS AND A GUARDIAN CAN ACCOMPANY YOU FREE OF CHARGE. BECAUSE WE LOVE YOU!
6-DOG MAX AT THE START
4-DOG MIN AT THE START
3-DOG MIN AT THE FINISH
ALL HARNESSED, HOOKED, AND ON THE GROUND
- Start: Saturday February 28th, 2025 (approximate start 1pm ET)
- Race Length: 15.9 miles* long
- Stages: one (1)
- Stage 1 Start: Saturday afternoon in Copper Harbor, MI
- Stage 1 End: Copper Harbor, MI
- The CD15 loop is run counterclockwise
- Purse: $2,090
- Pays: 1st – 6th
*The CopperDog race planning team reserves the right to vary the actual length of the race by +/- 10%
This is the official CopperDog schedule that you can print or download.
More Details About CopperDog 15
The CopperDog 15 is the most approachable and welcoming race of the CopperDog weekend—perfect for newer teams, younger mushers, and anyone looking to experience the excitement of sled dog racing in a supportive, community-focused environment.
This single-stage 15.9-mile race is designed as a 6-dog event, with the flexibility to start with as few as four dogs, making it an excellent entry point for developing teams. The CopperDog 15 is also open to teen mushers, and a guardian may accompany teen competitors free of charge, helping ensure the race is accessible, safe, and family-friendly.
All teams start harnessed, hooked, and on the ground, emphasizing clean starts, solid dog handling, and smooth teamwork. The race runs on a counterclockwise loop in Copper Harbor, beginning and ending in town, giving both mushers and spectators a great view of the action.
Taking place Saturday afternoon, the CopperDog 15 delivers big CopperDog energy in a shorter, more relaxed format—without sacrificing the challenge and excitement that make race day special.
With a $2,090 purse paid out to the top six finishers, the CopperDog 15 celebrates participation, growth, and the next generation of mushers, all while showcasing the incredible trails and community of Copper Harbor.
Whether it’s your first race, your first CopperDog, or your first time cheering from the trail, the CopperDog 15 is all about fun, learning, and sharing the love of sled dog racing.