“Open” World Championship Sled Dog Races

Date: February 25, 2026
Time: Noon
Price: Varies
Location: 4th Ave and D Street
Description: Don't miss the fastest sled dogs on earth as they run 26-mile heats through the streets of Anchorage in this 3-day event! Voted “Best Event” by the International Sled Dog Racing Association, this has been attracting mushers from Alaska and the world since 1946. Produced in partnership with the Alaskan Sled Dog & Racing Association, the race pits sprint mushing teams against each other over three days of the same 26 mile route for a total of 78 miles. Starting from the corner of Fourth Avenue and D Street in downtown Anchorage, the course – lined with thousands of spectators – winds through the city’s forests, across major roads, and back downtown. Come and witness the sheer intensity and excitement of this most anticipated sprint race in North America. Endurance, speed, and agility prove these dogs to be true athletes.

*Indicates Radio Checkpoint

To Be Announced.

Find a good viewpoint behind the trail edge
Teams leave at one or two minute intervals and often are closely spaced. Faster teams may have even passed a competitor.
Look for dogs running well with their heads and tails down showing concentration on their effort. Tug lines will be tight. Be aware that sudden movements or flashbulbs may startle dogs and break their concentration. You will see the head and tail go up if this occurs.
Mushers will only ask for help if needed. Dogs often are shy of unfamiliar people.
Getting entangled in a dog team can be very hazardous for you and the dogs.
A dog team traveling at up to 20mph takes up to 50 feet to come to a stop.
Sled dogs run very quietly. You may not know they are coming until you hear, “Trail!” or worse, you are entangled in the lines because the musher could not see around a corner.
Your pet dog will not enjoy watching sled dog racing events. A fast moving team will frighten most dogs. They are also a distraction to the racing or training dog team. Do not bring your family pets to dog mushing events.

More Information