Willow

Willow, Alaska is a small town located about 50 miles north of Anchorage, and is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and rich history. But for many, the most notable aspect of Willow is that it is the official starting point of the Iditarod dog sled race.

​

The Iditarod is a legendary dog sled race that covers over 1,000 miles of Alaskan wilderness, starting in Willow and ending in Nome. The race is considered to be one of the most challenging and grueling endurance events in the world, and attracts mushers and their teams from all over the globe.

​

The race begins in each year with a ceremonial start in Anchorage, where mushers and their teams are greeted by thousands of spectators who come out to witness the spectacle. The ceremonial start is a great opportunity for visitors to experience the excitement of the race and to meet the mushers and their teams in person.

 

But the next day is when the real fun begins, the restart in Willow Alaska! Red Lantern Tour Co. is always on sight for the restart. Look into one of our package tours and join us next year! Each of the mushers and their dogs line up one by one and start the race separately to avoid major dog mayhem. The dogs bounce up and down with excitement and we cheer the mushers on as they head out one by one into solidarity for the next 1,000 miles in the greatest dog race in Alaska.   

​

Willow itself is a charming and picturesque town, with a population of around 2,000 people. The town offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional way of life in Alaska and the opportunity to explore the beautiful natural surroundings. Visitors can hike, fish, or take a scenic flight to see the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

​

In addition to the Iditarod race, Willow is also home to the annual Oosik Classic sled dog race, which is held in February and is a great opportunity for visitors to see the dogs and mushers in action before the Iditarod race.

Willow, Alaska is not just a starting point for the iditarod, but also a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone looking for an authentic Alaskan experience.

​

Join Red Lantern Tour Co. for our guided tour lead by veteran Iditarod musher, Seth Barnes. An inside look at the 1,000 mile dog sled race in Alaska.