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Howling through history at the Stage Stop Sled Dog Race
A classic winter spectacle as teams blast off from downtown Jackson, with crowd energy, barking teams, and headlamps cutting through the evening cold.
Event details
The International Pedigree Stage Stop Sled Dog Race erupts from Jackson Town Square each January, turning the intersection of Cache Street and Broadway into the starting chute for one of the world’s premier sled dog competitions.
Founded in 1996 by Iditarod veteran Frank Teasley and public health nurse Jayne Ottman, this race often called the Tour de France of sled dog racing sends teams on a 215 to 250 mile journey across seven competitive stages through western Wyoming.
The Jackson Ceremonial Start takes place on the last Friday of January, January 30, 2026, when up to 6,000 spectators gather to watch teams of 10 to 12 dogs burst from the chute under brilliant lights. The two mile ceremonial course runs down Broadway to Willow Street, then south to the Teton County Fairgrounds at Snow King Resort.
Spectators can meet mushers and their dogs during the 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM vet check at the Deloney Parking Lot, followed by opening ceremonies at 5:00 PM featuring vendors, food trucks, and live entertainment. The first team launches at 6:30 PM.
The race continues through Pinedale, Big Piney and Marbleton, Kemmerer, Lander, and Dubois over eight days, with cumulative times determining the champion. Notable past winners include five time Iditarod champion Rick Swenson, the inaugural 1996 winner, Buddy Streeper with seven wins, the most in race history, and Quebec’s Anny Malo with six wins including 2025.
The event is free to attend, with free START Bus shuttles running every 15 minutes between Town Square and Snow King Center. Standard downtown Jackson parking applies, with street closures on Broadway and Snow King Avenue beginning around 10:00 AM.
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