Troop 1920 took on one of Scouting’s most legendary cold‑weather challenges this season: the Okpik Dogsled Trek at Northern Tier. This once in a lifetime adventure gave Scouts a chance to experience winter all the way in Minnesota. Troop 1920 was able to explore the remote territory, work with Alaskan huskies, and learn how to thrive in below zero wilderness conditions.
The crew arrived at the Charles L. Sommers Canoe Base in Ely, Minnesota, ready for three nights of adventure. With a highly trained staff member leading the crew, Troop 1920 got all geared up and prepared for their nights sleeping in the feet of snow.
The dogs quickly became everyone’s favorite part of the trek. Each team of Alaskan huskies was full of energy, excitement, and personality, and the Scouts learned how to harness them, care for them, and work alongside them on the trail. Even when the crew wasn’t moving, the dogs made their presence known. At night, as the temperature dropped to -30 and the forest was quiet, the sound of the dogs howling carried across the frozen lakes. This was a beautiful reminder of how special this winter adventure was.
As the trek came to an end, Troop 1920 headed home tired, cold, and proud of what they had accomplished. Okpik pushed everyone to work together, trust their skills, and embrace the challenge of true winter wilderness. From caring for the huskies to hearing their howls echo through the dark Minnesota nights to learning how to stay warm in deep snow, the crew experienced a side of Scouting that few ever get to see. It was an adventure that tested them, bonded them, and left memories they’ll carry long after the snow melts.
