Iditarod Shifts Official Starting Point to Fairbanks Due to Snow Shortage North of Alaska Range

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — Due to insufficient snow on a perilous segment of the trail, the organizers of the renowned Iditarod sled dog race have decided to relocate the starting point further north.


While the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race will retain its ceremonial kickoff in Anchorage on March 1, the official start for the 33 competing teams will now take place two days later in Fairbanks, approximately 360 miles (579 kilometers) to the north.


This marks the fourth instance in which the race has been shifted due to inadequate snowfall, as similar changes occurred in 2003, 2015, and 2017. Initially, race officials indicated that the event would commence as usual from the Anchorage area; however, recent assessments revealed a lack of new snow since the January 31 announcement. As a result, the trail breakers determined that a specific segment—spanning from the Rohn to Nikolai checkpoints located north of the Alaska Range—was impassable.


Race Marshal Warren Palfrey mentioned in a statement, “After extensive discussions with our lead Trail Breaker and other race supporters who are well-versed in local conditions, we are left with no choice but to modify the route. Given the absence of new snowfall on the horizon, we cannot allow teams to navigate through that 20-mile (32-kilometer) area.” He added, “It’s disappointing because the rest of the trail is in excellent condition all the way to Nome.”


The welfare of the dogs, mushers, and volunteers remains the highest priority for the Iditarod.


Even under normal snow conditions, this particular section of the trail is known for being among the most challenging portions of the entire 1,000-mile (1,609-kilometer) race through Alaska’s wilderness. Organizers encourage mushers to traverse this difficult stretch in groups, as assistance might be necessary. Obstacles along this route include windblown gravel sandbars, strong winds, rivers, a glacier, as well as slippery conditions and hidden ice in the bottom of a canyon.


The winner of the race is anticipated to arrive in Nome approximately 10 days following the official start.