Craig Morgan Dog Sled Race Takes Singer to the Arctic Circle

How does a country singer prepare for a dog sled trip in the Arctic Circle? Grow a beard, of course. Craig Morgan has been invited to participate in Fjällräven Polar, a 200-mile, five-day dog sled race that starts in Sweden and crosses three countries in April.

"They didn't say, 'grow a beard,' but everyone I see on videos from previous trips has one," Craig tells The Boot. "They tell you what kind of clothing and attire to bring, and I'll take my own tools. They provide everyone with the outerwear -- the extreme cold weather jacket and pants, gloves and headgear. I've already got my goggles and the additional items, like an ax and knives."

Despite recent surgery on his shoulder, the 48-year-old expects to be fit and ready for what he calls one of the top adventures of his life. "The first two days we will sleep in tents they provide for us, but the last two nights we will have to erect our own shelter made out of snow, tree limbs, whatever we can find to make it with," he explains, adding that his son, Kyle, is joining him on the escapade. "We will literally sleep in the environment."

Karen, Craig's wife, is accustomed to her husband traveling around the world, but this time she does have some worries. "She has to have confidence in our abilities and when we get back we get to share our stories," Craig explains. "She knows what I'm capable of. Her biggest concern about this trip is my being healed before we go."

Getting to experience the culture of the region is the biggest draw for the "More Trucks Than Cars" singer, who will miss orientation day so he can spend time with a Sami family from the Swiss Alps.

"I've not been in the Swiss Alps and I'm really excited to go there," Craig adds. "Getting to spend time with this family will allow me to experience a culture that most people will never have the opportunity to do."

The adventure challenge will take place April 9-13 and appear on the fourth season of the Tennessee native's TV show, "Craig Morgan All Access Outdoors."