Where to Watch the Iditarod Start: Anchorage & Willow

The Iditarod isn't one event — it's two starts and a finish line a thousand miles apart. If you want to see the dogs in person, here's exactly where to go and when.

The Ceremonial Start — Downtown Anchorage

On the first Saturday of March, teams parade down 4th Avenue in the heart of Anchorage. It's free, festive, and the most accessible way to see the mushers and their dogs up close. Crowds line the snow-covered street and vendors sell coffee and reindeer dogs. This leg doesn't count toward race time — it's a celebration.

Tips: Arrive early for a spot near the start chute on 4th Avenue. Dress in serious layers. Downtown parking fills fast, so come well ahead of the morning start.

The Restart — Willow Lake

The next day, about 80 miles north in Willow, the real race clock starts. Teams leave the frozen lake two minutes apart and hit the trail at full speed — this is the best place to feel how fast a championship dog team actually moves. Bring layers, arrive before the early-afternoon start, and give the teams plenty of room.

Watching the Finish

The other end of the trail is Nome, where the champion runs under the Burled Arch on Front Street 8–10 days later. If you're planning to be there, read our guide to where to stay in Nome for the finish — rooms book out a year ahead.

Plan around it

See the full schedule, route, and what's happening in each region on our Iditarod 2027 hub, and browse events around Anchorage for race weekend. New to the race? Start with the Iditarod, explained.