Klondike Dog Derby in Excelsior

If the Klondike Dog Derby had gone as planned for 2025, we could have seen thirty teams of sled dogs and their mushers race through a 40 mile course from Downtown Excelsior throughout Lake Minnetonka – but lack of snow has changed up the plans a bit.

Unfortunately this event has been cancelled again for 2025 due to lack of snow, but the Cutest Puppy Contest goes on!

Even though the 2023 and 2024 Derbies have been cancelled due to lack of ice and snow, the 5th-annual Cutest Puppy Contest is still happening at Back Channel Brewing Company on January 25th! There will be beer, food trucks and, of course, PUPPIES

AND music is still happening over Lake Minnetonka at Maynards in Excelsior for the Klondike Concert Series January 31 and February 1 featuring Klondike merch, amazing food, drinks, and a great lineup of bands with proceeds going to support Klondike Dog Derby

The Klondike Dog Derby is a free family friendly event. Events are located in Downtown Excelsior and the Lake Minnetonka Area in February.

With a history of dog sled racing dating back to the 1930’s, this city has experience hosting events of its kind! Event Board of Directors share in the mission of bringing a world-class sled dog race to the area.

Together as a team, these strong sled dogs, along with their musher, work for months to prepare for this event. With health and safety being top priorities, each sled dog goes through a pre-race veterinary exam to ensure they are fit for competition.

Have you ever wondered what sled dogs eat, how sled dogs train, or how sled dogs seem to have endless energy?  A set of educational videos found on the event’s website answer these frequently asked questions and more.

Two fun filled days are planned with not only the race but also sled dog rides, a hug-a-husky event and more.

Klondike Dog Derby Events

Friday, February 2nd: CANCELED

• 1:30-4pm: Sled Dog Vet Checks
• 2-6pm: Sled Dog Rides (purchase your tickets here– they will sell out!)
• 4-5:30pm: Hug a Husky + Meet the Mushers

Saturday, February 3rd: CANCELED

• 8am: Shuttle buses open
• 9am- 5pm: Klondike Village is open, includes front row viewing, food + warm beverages for purchase, bonfires, games and more!
• 9am: Musher Race Prep
• 9:30am: Opening Ceremony
• 10am: Race Start
• 10am- 4:30pm: Race Viewing
• 11am- 3pm: Sled Dog Rides (purchase your tickets here– they will sell out!)
• 5pm: Race Award Ceremony
• 6pm: Klondike Wrap Party

For a complete list of event details, head to the Klondike Dog Derby Web Site.   

Relax and enjoy the activities. Skip the hassle of a parking spot search by taking the shuttle.  Shuttles run from Westwood Community Church to the Excelsior Library each day.