The Idaho Sled Dog Challenge is returning to the West Central Mountains of Idaho Jan. 27-Feb. 5, 2025, for its seventh year. Part of the Rocky Mountain Triple Crown, the race features world-class mushers and is an Iditarod qualifier. Pictured here Jan. 29, 2018, at the official start of the inaugural 300-mile race, a sled dog team champs at the bit to take off. (Photo by Melissa Shelby) - Cascade, Idaho Idaho Sled Dog Challenge rebounds from summer wildfires
Several changes are coming to the Idaho Sled Dog Challenge in late January and early February as the Iditarod qualifier marks its seventh annual run in 2025. The most significant difference: The 300-mile race has been modified to a 200-mile event with the loss of part of the trail required to reach the Smiths Ferry checkpoint after the Boulder and Lava Fires consumed a bridge this summer.
Race organizers are expanding the event to include Sled Dog Week Jan. 27-31, featuring sled dog movies at the Ponderosa Center in McCall, a bingo night at Foresters in McCall, a trivia night at Broken Horn Brewing Co. in McCall, and similar events in New Meadows and at Tamarack Resort to be announced soon. In addition, Hotel NoBo in Cascade recently named its wine bar Checkpoint in honor of the annual race and plans to be involved in Sled Dog Week.
Meet the Mushers on Feb. 1 is transforming into a larger affair staged simultaneously at Hotel Nobo and Tamarack Resort. Previously featuring one local musher and their team, this year's installment will involve several of the mushers and their teams. Race organizers are printing posters attendees can purchase for $5 that mushers will autograph for fans for free at the event.
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