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WASILLA — The Iditarod is one of Alaska's most iconic features. The mushing lifestyle reflects the tenacious and wild spirit of the Last Frontier. That spirit isn't limited to race time, it's present year-round.
Locals and tourists alike can enjoy the Iditarod spirit throughout the summer by visiting the Iditarod Headquarters.
Visitors can learn more about the race's history at the museum by viewing race footage, trophies, displays, and photos. They can also take home souvenirs and race memorabilia.
Visitors also have a unique opportunity to see real sled dogs by partaking in summer cart rides that loop around the Iditarod Headquarters property. They also have the chance to meet Riley Dyche, an Iditarod veteran that's leading this year's cart rides.
"It really gives the visitors to see excited dogs in action, a good representation of the sport to see what it's all about," Dyche said.
Dyche said this is his first year taking visitors on cart rides. He said that he's utilizing all his Iditarod mushing dogs for the rides and even brings his puppies to interact with guests. He said it's a great opportunity for him and the Iditarod Headquarters because it helps him raise money for the upcoming race season while bringing attention to the museum and gift shop. Plus, he gets to meet tourists from around the world.
"It's win-win for everybody," Dyche said.
The 2024 Iditarod will be Dyche's fifth time participating in the Last Great Race. He operates Dark Horse Race Kennel and said that he loves every aspect of the mushing lifestyle.
"It's all I've done since I was 18," he said.
The Iditarod Headquarters is open seven days a week. The gift shop and visitor's center is runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and the summer sled dog cart rides run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It cost $10 per person for the cart rides on a first come first serve basis.
The 2024 Iditarod race starts during the first weekend of March. For more information, visit iditarod.com
Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com
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