Last Great Race is fan friendly

MAT-SU — Daytona has the Daytona 500. Miami had the Super Bowl. And on March 7, Willow has the Iditarod.

While the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race doesn’t attract 100,000-plus spectators in a stadium for its event, the race is extremely fan-friendly and is a signature event of Alaska.

The Last Great Race is a perfect way for a family to get out and enjoy the outdoors in the winter, and meet legends who are a part of Alaska’s history. At the starting line in Willow, spectators have the opportunity to meet mushing legends like Martin Buser, Rick Swenson, Dee Dee Jonrowe and Lance Mackey. Chances are, they wouldn’t get to meet Jeff Gordon if they were attending the Daytona 500.

This year’s Iditarod kicks off in Anchorage on March 6 with the ceremonial start, and then it’s Willow’s turn to host the festivities for real, as the restart begins on Willow Lake and the mushers head out on their 1,100-mile trek to Nome.

While the race itself is a reason to head to Willow, you can certainly turn it into an extended weekend of recreation and fun. There are numerous bed and breakfasts in the area where you can spend the entire race weekend.

For the adventurous sort, Willow is a perfect place to head outdoors for winter recreation. Numerous trails shoot off in every direction, so make sure you grab a pair of cross-country skis or a pair of snowshoes to explore the area.

Another popular side trip on your way to Iditarod is to stop at Nancy Lake State Recreation Area. Many of the lakes offer excellent ice fishing opportunities, including pike and trout. The portage areas between the lakes are fabulous for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing as well. Before you go, make sure you check the Alaska State Parks regulations to see if motorized use is approved – the lack of snowfall has seen the area closed for snowmachining for much of the winter.

Other areas are open for snowmachining, and a great way to watch the start of the race is to head out along the route on Willow Lake to get away from the crowds. Iditarod parties pop up along the first few miles of the race, with spectators having wood fires, barbecues and good times along the route.

Get ready for the race by arriving early for the restart on Sunday. The restart begins with the first musher leaving the chute at 2 p.m., but you’ll want to make sure you get to Willow Lake early to avoid traffic and parking problems. Also, give yourself ample time to find a spot to watch the race, either in the starting chute or on the lake.

Casey Ressler (casey@alaskavisit.com) is the marketing and communications manager for the Mat-Su Convention & Visitors Bureau.