Every March, the air fills with the yips and yowls of sled dogs. They are excited to begin the famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. The dogs and their mushers, or sled drivers, race 1,000 miles from Anchorage, Alaska to Nome, Alaska. They face countless dangers during their long, rough journey. The Iditarod is a true race against the powerful forces of nature.

Racers encounter many difficulties on the trail. Gale-force winds and sub-zero temperatures threaten the dogs and their mushers. There are over 20 checkpoints on the Iditarod race route. Sled dogs and their mushers are able to rest at these stops. They are also able to pick up supplies like food and extra dog booties.

The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race celebrates sled dog culture. It also honors the importance of the Iditarod Trail in the history of Alaska.