Organizers of the John Beargrease Dog Marathon in northeastern Minnesota say the race's starting location is being moved due to melting snow.

Organizers of the John Beargrease Dog Marathon in northeastern Minnesota say the race's starting location is being moved due to melting snow.

John Beargease Sled Dog Marathon’s start location moved due to warm temperatures melting the snow. The 40th anniversary of the race, which was originally slated to begin at Billy’s in Duluth, will now start just north of Two Harbors on March 2nd.

The John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon, already delayed by more than a month, will begin Sunday north of Two Harbors at what has traditionally been the race’s first checkpoint. “Weather always plays a role in sled dog race and unfortunately the recent warm temperatures have made conditions at our original start line unsuitable for the race,

Warm temperatures and a dwindling snowpack have forced organizers of this year’s John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon in northeast Minnesota to move the starting location north of Two Harbors instead of near Duluth.

The 40th John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon is again adjusting the race due to warming winters. Organizers announced on Tuesday that the race, which has already had weather-related delays, will have its starting location moved "due to unseasonably warm temperatures.

The new starting location will be near the North Shore State Trail on Township Road 24. Race officials say signage will be in place to help direct traffic.