DSC_0932.jpg

What happens at a sled dog race?

Give yourself plenty of time to get to Frog Lake - HWY 26 can become congested with ski resort traffic as early as 8am.

Typically larger teams will stay in the lot the evening before the race or arrive early in the morning. Teams are expected to park in the same spot as the previous day, so if you show up early on the second day of the race and are asked to move your vehicle, this is a bio-security measure to ensure dog teams don’t get sick.

Restrooms are usually available on site, but bring enough layers to stay comfortable as well as a means to warm back up if you get cold (e.g. hand warmers or heavy blankets).

A driver’s meeting occurs before the race which allows all of the participants to ask questions about the course, receive information about spotters and trail conditions, and learn their starting times.

A starting chute will be marked with flags and have timers and volunteers staged within. Spectators can stand to either side of the flags, but should not enter the chute for any reason as it poses a safety concern.

Near the starting chute is a large board with start times, course maps and participant times recorded as the race progresses.

Volunteers will call start times in the parking lot and help teams get to the starting chute.

A countdown is verbally called out by the timers, and then the team will charge out onto the trail.

Depending on the length of the course as well as the number of dogs, runs may take as long as 90 minutes to finish or as little time as 6 minutes.

Large teams will go out first - approximately 9am.

Larger teams running mid-distance lengths (14 Miles) may take between 60-90 minutes to finish a course. These teams are inspiring for children and adults alike to watch, but there is a long period of time that passes between start and finish.

Smaller teams leave when all of the larger teams have finished (skijor, 2-dog and 4-dog). These teams will finish in 10-30 minutes, depending on length of the course, and present the most photo opportunities at the start and finish line within the closest succession.


Please leave dogs at home unless you are participating


Races are LOUD and there are a LOT of dogs present - sometimes upwards of 200 in a parking lot!

This environment is overwhelming for pet dogs and can pose a serious safety risk if they are unfamiliar with the excitement of the event.

To learn how to join us with your dog at the race, please check out our pull clinic or getting started pages.

DSC_0950.jpg

Can I pet the dogs?

Absolutely!

But please ask before petting any of the dogs.

We love to share our dogs with spectators, but some of our dogs are uncomfortable with strangers or may be rehabilitated rescues who need space - especially at an exciting race event!

Do not pet dogs while they are in the chute getting ready to go or waiting for their turn to enter the chute. They are excited to do their job and will be much happier to receive your attention when they are all done with their run.

What should I bring?

  • Sno Park Permit, which can be purchased at any of the following vendors.

  • A full tank of gas - there is no heated lodge at Frog Lake, so you’ll need to idle your vehicle to warm back up between teams.

  • Blankets, hand warmers, change of socks and long underwear - the usual snow safety check list.

  • Chains or traction tires, which are often required during winter travel on Mt. Hood.

  • Food and drink - there are no food vendors available at the Frog Lake Sno Park and the nearest restaurants are in Government Camp about 10 minutes away.

  • Camping Chairs if you would be more comfortable sitting in the chute.

  • Ear protection - Dog teams are LOUD when they are in the chute, and may be a sensory overload for some individuals.

How Do I find Races Near me?

If you’ve stumbled across our page - you are likely seeking information about sled dog racing in the lower 48.

The following is a list of different club events in the 2024-2025 race season.

For more information about spectating at a sled dog event or race - please check out our Spectator Information page here.

For more information about PNW Clubs in the lower 48 - please see our PNW Club Page here.

We do not offer rides to the public. Currently the only touring opportunity available in Oregon is through Oregon Trail of Dreams, which operates off of Mt. Bachelor.

Cascade Sled Dog Club offers one formal training opportunity/class is in the Fall - registration typically opens in early August and more information about the Fall Pull Clinic is available here.

Snow 2025 Events & RAces with Dates & Locations

Have a race you would like added to the list below? Please reach out to our webmaster and include the dates, location and an information site (Facebook Page is fine) for the event where people can find more information.

Oregon

  • Frog Lake Races - January 18-19th on Mt. Hood, OR. Skijoring and Sprint Sled Distances

  • Eagle Cap Extreme - January 25-26 in Joseph, OR. Distance (Iditarod Qualifier)

  • Diamond Lake Race - Usually 3rd Weekend February TBD in Diamond Lake, OR. Skijoring and Sprint Sled Distances

  • Bachelor Butte Dog Derby - February 28-March 2024 in Bend, OR. Skijoring, Spring & Stage Distance Options

Washington

Idaho

Montana

  • Darby Dog - Usually 2nd weekend of January TBD in Darby, MT. Skijor & Sprint Options.

  • Race to the Sky - February 7-11th in Lincoln, MT. Distance (Iditarod Qualifier)

  • Flathead Classic Race - Usually last weekend of February TBD in Olney, MT. Skijor & Sprint Options

Wyoming