D I S T I N C T LY M O N TA N A • W I N T E R 2 0 1 6
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Reconnecting to the journey can be as easy as trying out an
animal-powered mode of transportation. Notably, dogsledding.
Dogsledding is one of the oldest forms of animal-powered
transportation, dating back thousands of years. Settlements in the
open northern expanses of North America may not have been
possible without canine power. Sled dogs were front and center
during the Yukon gold rush in the late 1800s — the deciding fac-
tor between striking it rich and going home empty-handed could
be determined by how strong a sled dog team you had.
Montana is no stranger to dogsledding. Each year since 1986, the
350-mile Montana Race to the Sky begins near Rimini and ends at
Elk Park. is race attracts mushers from all over the world, and is a
qualifying race for the 1,049-mile Iditarod in Alaska.
Montana's landscape and lengthy winter provide an ideal setup
for both leisurely and competitive dogsledding, making it a popular
winter activity for tourists and locals alike. Dogsled operations are
T
his efficiency of modern travel is a blessing and a curse. We have no issues reaching our destination, but the experience of
our journey can be limited. In a place like Montana, getting there should be half the glory — the mountains and plains provide endless
opportunity for visual drama, and all four seasons are rife with wildlife and scenery.
by
MAGGIE SLEPIAN
