The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race first ran to Nome in 1973, after two short races on part of the Iditarod Trail in 1967 and 1969. The idea of having a race over the Iditarod Trail was conceived by the late Dorothy G. Page.

Is the Iditarod 2021 Cancelled?

According to a written statement from Iditarod CEO Rob Urbach, “we decided to cancel our traditional ceremonial start in Anchorage due to the COVID-19 concerns of a large gathering.” The decision was made “after consulting with our stakeholders and in consultation with the Municipality of Anchorage.”

Where does the Iditarod start in 2021?

Iditarod 2021. The world-famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race gets under way the first Sunday in March (March 7, 2021) from Willow Lake. While the mushers participate in a ceremonial start on Saturday in downtown Anchorage, from Willow, it's all business as the mushers are on the clock.