Most people are under the assumption that dog sledding is a thing of the past. Well, here in Idaho it's actually alive and well. In fact, this one small town holds a gigantic dog sled race every single year. This race has been an annual tradition for the past 100 years. This historical race has attracted visitors to Idaho from all over the world and it's definitely an event that every Idahoan should witness at least once.
Every year since 1917, the small town of Ashton is host to the American Dog Derby. This two-day event is the longest running dog sled race in the country. It's a unique event that absolutely must be experienced.
The sight of dozens of these beautiful dogs racing in the winter landscape resembles something like a scene from a movie. Who knew Idaho was host to such an awesome event like this? It just shows that our state is full of surprises.
This year, the event will take place from February 15th through February 17th. The race is expected to bring hundreds of visitors to Ashton.
Five different races are offered at the American Dog Derby along with a celebrity race, snowshoe race, and a weight pull-in. The main event is the 40-mile race which attracts mushers from all over the country.
The derby is the perfect winter event for families. The race takes on a carnival-like atmosphere with different activities taking place right in downtown Ashton.
Booths and food vendors line the streets. Ashton looks positively magical during the winter amid the snowy landscape. The joyous atmosphere is sure to warm you up despite the cold temperature.
The race is one of Idaho's most beloved events. It's crazy to think how the derby has been going strong for over a century now.
The first race was held in March 1917 and ran 55 miles from West Yellowstone to Ashton. The first race was particularly unique since it actually occurred during a blinding blizzard. By the 1921 race, over 10,000 people were traveling to Ashton to watch this amazing race.
The derby has had its fair share of ups and downs, with many races being cancelled due to waning interest. It was in 1993 when the races made an official comeback.
The race's popularity just keeps growing and growing with more participants signing up to race every year. Today, the course of the race takes place primarily within the fields and forests around Ashton.
There is a fee for mushers who wish to participate in the race, but the event is free for spectators. This would be an awesome weekend trip that the whole family will remember for years to come.
This is one event that every Idahoan should experience at least once in their lifetime. This one-of-a-kind race is truly something you can only find in the Gem State.
For more information on the 2018 race, held February 15-17, click here.
Did you know about the American Dog Derby? Idaho is just full of unique winter time activities. Check out the Epic Snow Tubing Hill In Idaho That Will Give You The Thrill Of A Lifetime.
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