The Homeland Advantage
Ten go-now getaways that are short on hassle but long on adventure—no passport required
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| Dogsledding Boundary Waters (Corel) |
Superior Mushing
Boundary Waters, Minnesota
Everyone knows northern Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is the place to practice your J-stroke. But long after the last canoe has been portaged, the lakes freeze solid to create the best mushing terrain south of Alaska. On the Beargrease Special, a January 28–February 2 trip with Ely-based White Wilderness Sled Dog Adventures, professional mushers will show you how it's done. First, watch as the pros set off on the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon, a 400-mile race along Lake Superior. While the race is on, you take the helm of a six-dog sled, geeing and hawing for 25 to 30 miles a day past moose, bald eagles, and gray wolves in Superior National Forest. At dusk, park the canines and dine on cold-weather delicacies like pork schnitzel with chipotle apple brandy sauce. Then take a quick peek at the blaze of stars—there's no civilization for miles—before shutting up the yurt and piling on the blankets for a cozy night's sleep. From $1,545 for the five-day trip, based on double occupancy, including lodging, food, equipment, and guides; 800-701-6238, www.whitewilderness.com
