Meet the 2023
Mushers

Dean Johnson

Waupaca, WI

I grew up in Waupaca, WI, and joined the Army at 18, Airborne Infantry. I served in the National Guard as a Forward Observer for Artillery and aircraft, and retired as a Master Sgt. I worked at the Wisconsin Veterans Home for 29 years caring for Vets. I currently work in a crisis center as a Mental Health Technician. I like hunting, fishing, camping, rappelling and, of course, dog sledding. I am married and have five children.

kennel name

Granite Quarry Dog Sledding

website & social media

Twitter, Instagram, Facebook: Granite Quarry Dog Sledding

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START RUNNING SLED DOGS AND HOW OLD WERE YOU WHEN YOU STARTED?

I had a big interest as a child in winter camping and arctic history. That led to finally having a four dog team in my late twenties of Siberians and Malamutes – then I could haul more winter camping gear! I never really knew another musher during that time. Around ten years ago I got my first Alaskan Husky from Natures Kennel. I now have ten from various kennels.

Meet the 2023Mushers