Intimate Iditarod Experience

We are excited to be offering a new trip for this Spring 2019! The Intimate Iditarod Experience.

Learn about dog mushing firsthand from Squid Acres Kennel.

Experience the world of dog mushing by becoming a member of the Squid Acres Racing Team. Learn firsthand what it takes to reach the starting line of the 1,049-mile Iditarod Sled Dog Race. With only 6 spots available, this 8-day adventure provides guests a behind-the-scenes look at a competitive racing kennel and the longest sled dog race in the world. You’ll have exclusive, VIP access to all events at the Iditarod Ceremonial Start and the Willow Restart as an official Dog Handler for Squid Acres Iditarod Race team.

Assist in handling Team Squid Acres’ dogs to the starting line of the 2019 Iditarod!

Learn to drive your own team of Alaskan Huskies!

Your week begins in Fairbanks, spending two days getting to know the team at their North Kennel location, while soaking up the culture of Alaska’s largest interior city. Next you’ll head to Denali National Park for two days to join the Squid Acres crew at the South Kennel location to learn more about dog mushing while running your own dog team. We’ll also enjoy a day in Denali National Park snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and in the evening relaxing by the fire at your guest house, while your private chef prepares home-cooked meals. The trip continues south to Anchorage for a weekend of festivities surrounding the start of the Last Great Race. At the 2019 Mushers Banquet you’ll share dinner with Squid Acres Owners/Mushers Cody, Paige and the rest of the mushers running the race. See full itinerary for details and pricing.

Itinerary for Intimate Iditarod Experience

Day 1: Sunday – February 24 – Pick up and check in at Marriott Springhill Suites Fairbanks. Dinner on own, suggestion Lavelle’s. Lodging at Springhill Suites.

Day 2: Monday – February 25 – Squid Acres North Kennel visit. Explore Fairbanks, Ice festival, Museum. Lunch on own. Dinner on own. Aurora viewing.

Day 3: Tuesday – February 26 – Travel to Denali and check in at Tonglen Lake Lodge. Lunch and dinner prepared by chef at Tonglen (included). Explore Denali, hike, snowshoe, ski. Indoor Presentation by Squid Acres at Tonglen. Aurora viewing. Lodging at Tonglen.

Day 4: Wednesday – February 27 – Explore Denali. Day of Dog Adventure at Squid Acres South Kennel. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner prepared by Chef at Tonglen (included). Aurora Viewing. Lodging at Tonglen.

Day 5: Thursday – February 28 – Breakfast at Tonglen (included), travel to Anchorage. Stop in Talkeetna for Lunch (on own). Iditarod Banquet Dinner as guests of Squid Acres Kennel (included). Lodging at Copper Whale or Voyager Inn.

Day 6: Friday – March 1 – Alaska Native Heritage Center Visit. Afternoon and evening on own in Anchorage, suggestion First Friday in downtown Anchorage.

Day 7: Saturday – March 2 – Ceremonial Start of Iditarod. Exclusive Handler privileges – help handle the Squid Acres Iditarod Dog Team, VIP access. Dinner on own. Lodging at Voyager Inn or Copper Whale.

Day 8: Sunday – March 3 – Willow Re-Start. Squid Acres Kennel exclusive handler access. Return to Anchorage. Lunch and Dinner on own. Depart or Lodging on own.