Mushing Madness: Montana’s Dog Sled Events Coming Up

Montana is the ideal location for all winter sports, including dog sledding! With our long, snowy winters, Montana has a rich history in dog sledding and continues the tradition with a few exciting events each year.

Brief History of Dog Sledding in Montana

Before European settlers ever showed up in America, Native Americans likely used dogs to transport items throughout the area.

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There are no written documents on the subject. Still, explorers reported Natives using dogs in Canada in the late 1700s, and an 1833 painting shows Natives at Mandan Village, North Dakota, using sled dogs.

Also, the U.S. Army established Camp Rimini War Dog Training Center near Helena in the early 1940's. They trained sled dogs at the camp to help with northern European missions during WWII.

Events Happening This Winter 

Darby Dog Derby / January 17th - 18th

The Darby Dog Derby (DDD) has several events for spectators to watch and mushers to participate in. There is not only a dog sled competition, but also dog skijorring.

According to the DDD website, attending this event allows participation beyond mere observation.

" Being a spectator at a dog race can sometimes be very interactive.  Some mushers may rope you into helping with their team. If you are uncomfortable doing so, kindly refrain." - DDD.

Montana Race To The Sky / February 7th-11th

The biggest mushing event of the year is The Race To The Sky, located in Lincoln, MT. It is a 500-mile continuous track that is also an Iditarod qualifier. The best of the best have attended this event since 1986, and many qualify to continue to the world's most famous dog sled race.

Flathead Classic / February 22-23

Located at Dog Creek Lodge & Nordic in Olney, Mt., this event is a multi-class, multi-sport race that will surely be an adrenaline-pumping experience for spectators. There is a total of nine events, ranging from skijoiring to multi-dog sled teams.

Credit: FWP.MT, Flathead Classic, RaceToTheSKY