The exotic snow swept Georgian Bluffs along 1.6 kilometres of pristine coastline will be the backdrop for this first annual winter festival. Ontario’s best kept secret, Cobble Beach, a two-hour drive from Pearson airport, just minutes north of Owen Sound is expecting anywhere between 30 and 60 teams of dogs from across the province and North America for Family Day weekend February 18th and 19th.

Skijoring is a popular adventure sport originating in Europe where cross-country skiing meets dog sledding. A skier is attached to two dogs by a tug line and whipped across the race track. Racers (a.k.a. mushers) will leave the start at two-minute intervals and their finish times recorded. The event will also feature traditional dog sled races throughout the weekend.

Skijoring is growing in popularity in North America! With large skijoring and dog sledding communities in Ottawa, Michigan, and New York, Cobble Beach expects a large showing of international competitors.
 
The Cobble Beach competition welcomes all skill levels, from novice racers (like the Kid’n Mutt sprints) to the elite six mile competitions. Races will be held on 14 kilometres of private, groomed trails at The Cobble Beach Golf Links Resort and Spa. Mushers will compete for prizes and a cash purse.

For those not racing, there’s still plenty to enjoy at the festival. Spectators can warm up with some hot chocolate as they cheer for their favourite team, go for a skate on Cobble Beach’s ice rink and enjoy programming for kids of all ages. Whether they’re long-time enthusiasts or just looking for a fun and exciting way to spend Family Day, there’s something for everyone!
 
With so much to do in and around Cobble Beach, visitors will want to stay the night. Come in from the cold and warm up with a treatment at the five-star Cobble Beach Spa or a meal and hot toddy at the Sweetwater Restaurant & Bar. Book early and enjoy a luxurious stay at the all-suite Cobble Beach Inn & Spa and be sure to check out Grey Bruce Country’s impressive inventory of winter activities including a compelling exhibit by Canadian artist, Barbara Todd called Teaching a Stone to Talk at the Tom Thomson Gallery just minutes from the Dog sledding action.

The First Annual Skijor and Dogsled Festival will bring crowds from across the province and North American to celebrate the season at Cobble Beach and embrace what is quickly becoming one of Canada’s favourite winter sports.

For a good cause

A portion of the money raised from registration and donations will be donated to GRACE (Georgian Riding Association for Challenged Equestrians), a local charitable organization that provides group riding lesson to physically, mentally, and developmentally challenged children and adults.

To take part in this exciting winter festival or for volunteer opportunities please phone 519.370.2173. 

For more information, visit our website or follow us on Twitter @cobblebeach, and like us on Facebook.