There are many activities to partake in when visiting Anchorage, from sampling delicious Alaskan seafood to exploring Rabbit Lake. One popular event is the Iditarod Sled Dog Race, a historic race that occurs annually and guarantees thrilling results. As you plan your trip itinerary, find out more about this occasion below.

What's the History of the Iditarod Sled Dog Race?

The 2023 Iditarod Sled Dog Race marks the 50th year of this heart-pounding event. The first official race of this kind occurred between 1908 and 1917, sponsored by the Nome Kennel Club. It was a 408-mile race from Nome to Candle and back again. In 1967, a relatively short race of 25 miles was created to celebrate the centennial of Alaska's purchase from Russia.

By 1973, the Iditarod Race was the state's new premier dog sledding event. Joe Redington, a dog sledder and kennel owner, and Dorothy G. Page, a centennial committee chairperson, created this 1,100-mile-long competition.

It pays homage to the mining camps and goldfields that peppered northern Alaska in the early 1900s. The original inspiration for the race was an emergency dogsled relay which delivered serum to the town of Nome, struck by a diptheria outbreak. The relay brought international attention to a sled dog named Balto. The canine and his four-legged companions plowed through sub-zero blizzard conditions in 1925 to deliver the serum which saved many lives.

What Does It Involve?

This incredible race features a ceremonial start in downtown Anchorage that lasts 11 miles through streets lined with cheering fans. These miles don't count towards the actual race, which officially begins with the Iditarod Restart about 45 miles north of Anchorage in Willow. From there, mushers take eight to 10 or more days to reach Nome. 

Although it's an off-road event, it is possible to cheer for the teams from numerous accessible spots in the Willow vicinity, and to follow your favorite mushers using a flightseeing company or hopping aboard a snowmobile. As of 2023, the fastest race time belongs to Mitch Seavey, who completed the run in eight days, 3 hours, 40 minutes, and 13 seconds in 2017. 

This year's ceremonial race begins on Saturday, March 4, with the official start in Willow happening the next day. Enjoy Alaskan seafood, gourmet sausage with reindeer meat, and other delights from Alaska Sausage & Seafood while you watch this epic event. Based in Anchorage, this local business offers exceptional fish and meat products and delightful gift packages. Call (907) 562-3636 to place an order, and explore their inventory of Alaskan seafood and sausages online.