I just returned from Alaska, where I witnessed the start of the 44^th running of the Iditarod. Admittedly, I knew very little about the race prior to my visit, but quickly learned about its history and significance. The field is made up of 85 teams consisting of 1 ‘musher’ or racer who commands a sled pulled by 12 to 16 dogs. The course stretches over 1,000 miles from the official start on Willow Lake to the finish line in Nome, Alaska and takes anywhere from 8-14 days to complete. There are 26 female mushers competing this year, 3 grandsons of the race’s founder and 6 countries represented, making this a special tradition that not only unites communities throughout Alaska, but draws spectators from around the world. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newbie like me, the Iditarod race is a unique event that is a sight to behold. Below are some tips for attending Alaska’s Iditarod.

 

 

IT OCCURS THE FIRST WEEKEND IN MARCH

The Iditarod takes place each year on the first weekend in March when conditions are typically ideal. However, this year temperatures were unseasonably warm so snow had to be brought in by train from the north down to Anchorage for the ceremonial start.

 

 

THERE ARE TWO LOCATIONS TO WATCH THE START

The ceremonial start takes place in Anchorage on the first Saturday in March. The 85 mushers and their pups gather at 10am in the historic downtown district where thousands of fans come out to show their support and cheer on the teams.

The official start takes place a day later at 2pm on Willow Lake in Willow, Alaska about 90 minutes northwest of Anchorage. Parking is available for $10 directly across  from the park. Thousands flock to Willow to take part in the festivities and give the mushers a warm send-off. The support means a great deal to the mushers as these are the last large crowds they’ll encounter for the next 1,000 miles.

 

 

ARRIVE EARLY TO SECURE A GOOD SPOT

If you want a front row view at the start line, you’ll have to arrive early to secure your spot along the fence. Thousands of spectators attend this event and space near the start fills up fast. My Russian and I arrived around noon and found a great spot in the middle of the lake.

 

 

BE PREPARED TO STAND FOR A FEW HOURS

With 85 teams competing and a 2 minute gap between each start, it takes a few hours to get through the entire field. If you plan on staying for the whole event, consider bringing a lawn chair or blanket and making yourself comfortable.

 

 

DRESS IN LAYERS

Temperatures typically hover in the mid to upper 30’s this time of year in Alaska, so your best bet is to dress in layers. Leggings, snow boots, ski pants, sweaters, thick socks, scarves, gloves, hats and a heavy coat are a must. We lucked out with a beautiful, sunny day, but after a few hours of standing outside I was happy to be so bundled up!

 

 

PACK A LUNCH

After standing out in the cold all afternoon, chances are you’ll work up an appetite. Many spectators come prepared to tail-gate with grills, tents and the whole nine yards. Others set up campfires directly on the frozen lake and toast hot dogs and marshmallows. If you aren’t able to bring such an elaborate spread, there are several food trucks selling everything from pulled pork to popcorn.

 

 

HEAD FURTHER DOWN THE TRAIL FOR BETTER VIEWS

The main shoot of the race stretches the full length of Willow Lake, but if you follow the trail into the woods, the crowds thin out allowing you to get even closer to the action. Watching the teams glide past the beautiful birch trees is a stunning sight.

  

 

THE FINISH LINE IS JUST AS EXCITING AS THE START

After nearly 2 weeks of racing, the mushers and their dogs are exhausted, but exhilarated by their accomplishment.  The entire population of Nome as well as visitors from around the globe come out to cheer on the teams as they cross the finish line. The celebration concludes at the awards banquet where the winner and top 30 finishers receive their purse and prizes.

The Iditarod is a special tradition that draws crowds from around the world. It truly is a celebration of man’s connection to nature and the deep bond that exists between the mushers and their dogs. To learn more about the history of the Iditarod and this year’s mushers or to follow the race in real time, click here!