Forging New Trails
The snow sprays as a sled carves a path through the Ely wilderness in Northern Minnesota. A team of eager dogs pull hard against their harnesses, each one working in unison. But the true leader isn’t the fastest or the strongest, it’s the person guiding the sled from behind, giving clear commands and trusting the team to listen.
At Cast Outdoor Adventures (COA), founded by David and Heather Hicks, individuals with physical disabilities aren’t just passengers. They’re mushers—leading their teams, making quick decisions, and discovering their strength in a rugged wilderness that once felt out of reach.
For Ralph DeQuebec, a Marine Corps veteran and two-time Paralympic gold medalist, dogsledding with COA was more than an adventure. In 2012, while serving as an explosive ordnance disposal technician in Afghanistan, Ralph stepped on an improvised explosive device and lost both of his legs above the knee. The blast changed his life—but not his drive. Dogsledding became another way to test his limits, embrace challenges, and remember everything he’s still capable of.
“Out here, you don’t know what you’ll come across, it's super healing...I think the word that I've heard the most, that kind of strikes me, is 'primal.'” Ralph said. “You get to get in tune with you and nature. So, I love it.”
More Than Dogs: They're Teachers
At COA, the dogs are more than just part of the adventure—they’re teachers in their own right. Each has a distinct role and personality that can mirror the experience of the participants.
There’s Mossy, nicknamed “Saucy Mossy,” a confident and sassy lead dog who never misses a cue. She’s up early, ready to go, and sets the tone for the entire team.
“She’s that boss who shows up an hour before everyone and stays two hours late,” says COA founder David Hicks. “She’s all drive, drive, let’s go, let’s go.”
Then there’s Spud, a young, but gentle swing dog, who’s smart and observant. He watches the leads closely, ready to take on more responsibility.
Mishka and Agate are team dogs, strong and dependable, keeping pace no matter the terrain. And at the back, wheel dogs like Copley who stay calm under pressure, guiding the sled and musher through tight turns.
For many participants, these dogs become symbols of who they are or want to become—confident leaders, steady supporters, learners working towards their moment to lead.
Below is a short film highlighting the stories of the different dogs that are a part of the of Cast Outdoor Adventures family.
“The dogs don’t judge you,” Ralph shared. “They trust you. And that kind of trust? It makes you rise to the occasion.”
Mason Branstrator, who recently stayed at the new fully accessible North of the North Resort and booked a day trip with Cast Outdoors, echoed the powerful emotional impact of the experience.
It was Mason’s first time ever trying dog sledding, and for someone living with paralysis, the idea of leading a team of powerful dogs across the snow was once unimaginable. But from the moment he arrived, he felt supported. “The Cast Outdoor team is super accommodating, informative, and inviting.”
David made an impression right away. “He taught us all about the dogs and how they each have different strengths and abilities, just like people. His connection with them was clear; he was the pack leader.
Building Something That Lasts
Founded by David and Heather Hicks, Cast Outdoor Adventures was created to offer adaptive outdoor experiences that break down barriers and empower participants to lead. Their flagship program, adaptive dog sledding, is a powerful combination of teamwork, skill-building, and raw Northern adventure.
“We knew this was needed,” David said. “But to make it last, we had to move from volunteering to building something permanent.”
David realized that while volunteering was valuable, a sustainable program needed structure and financial stability. That vision needed support, and that’s where the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation stepped in. A Community Opportunity Fund grant from the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation helped COA purchase adaptive gear, grow its programs, and establish a structure that could carry this work forward for years to come.
"The support from the Community Foundation helped us take that leap. We’re not just maintaining an idea anymore—we’re building a sustainable future.”
Rooted in the Ely Community
What makes COA truly unique isn’t just the sleds or the trails—it’s the deep, reciprocal relationship with the Ely community. Local restaurants, lodges, and guides all play a role in making these trips possible. “We’re not trying to build a new culture; the community here already has something special.” David said. “We’re strengthening what already exists.”
Heather emphasized the role of Ely’s tight-knit community in COA’s success. “At the end of the day, it’s about community,” Heather said. “It’s about coming together and finding what’s best for everyone. Our company is about facilitating experiences, but it’s the local restaurants, shops, and lodges that make it possible. It’s truly a team effort.”
Peter Johnson, a guide at COA, adds that Ely’s diverse terrain creates the perfect canvas for custom adventures.
“There are so many trail options here. Sometimes we’ll call one a ‘spicy trail’ if it’s got a little edge—perfect for someone who’s ready to be pushed.” said Peter.
Real Impact, Lasting Growth
Participants leave COA with more than memories; They leave with skills, confidence, and a new understanding of leadership.
In a recent participant survey:
- 100% said physical activity is important to their well-being.
- 78% said they are likely to continue exploring outdoor adventures.
- Many noted that the experience strengthened their leadership skills, improved their mental health, and increased their connection to nature.
As the nation’s leading provider of adaptive dog sledding experiences, Cast Outdoor Adventures is not only transforming lives on the trail — they’re also blazing a path forward for inclusion in the outdoor recreation world. With a growing demand for accessible adventures, COA is committed to expanding their reach and inspiring other sled dog programs across the country to increase access and break down barriers. Their goal is simple but powerful: make the wilderness a place where everyone belongs.
How You Can Help
Your support helps individuals like Ralph and Mason discover new strengths—and a new kind of leadership.
Donate to Cast Outdoor Adventures or support their upcoming documentary, Trail of Trust, featuring Ralph’s journey.
Learn more at elydaytrips.com.
About the Community Opportunity Fund
Cast Outdoor Adventures has been a recipient of an award from our Community Opportunity Fund – a permanent civic endowment that fosters collaboration, amplifies resources, and addresses the root causes of community challenges. This fund supports ambitious, long-term initiatives in three key areas: Opportunity, Resilience, and Belonging. You can contribute to this fund and join us in making a lasting impact – Make Your Gift Today.
