Don't Miss Oregon’s Eagle Cap Extreme Sled Dog Race

In late January, Joseph, Oregon hosts the Eagle Cap Extreme Sled Dog Race, one of only 5 sled dog races in the U.S. mainland where Mushers and their teams can qualify for the world-famous Iditarod. If you live within driving distance, try not to miss it.

Most Oregonians think of the tiny eastern Oregon town of Joseph as the gateway to Wallowa Lake, but not too many realize that it is also the town where the Eagle Cap Extreme Sled Dog Race takes place in late January every year. This years event is scheduled for January 23 to January 26, and if you are interested in sled dog races, this is one you won't want to miss.
Besides being one of the most scenic places in Oregon, the 200-mile area chosen for the race has elevation gains and losses amounting to 26,000 feet which makes it a perfect spot for the 3 races that make up the Eagle Cap Extreme Race. The shortest race is a 31 mile sprint; the second, an 8 dog, 100 mile race; and, finally, the main event, a gruelling 200 mile, 12 dog race.

Although this race is not the only sled dog race in Oregon each year, it is the only one in the state where racers can actually qualify for the Yukon Quest and Iditarod, and one of only five such qualifying races in mainland U.S.

The race, often referred to as the, "wild mountain race," begins in the small town of Joseph, winds over rough terrain through the Hells Canyon Recreation area, and for many miles into the rugged mountains of the Wallowa Whitman National Forest.

Joseph, named for Chief Joseph of the Nez Perce Indian Tribe, and nearby Enterprise take full advantage of the influx of visitors during the race, providing souvenier shopping and plenty of activities of interest every member of your family.

The main streets of both small towns close to regular traffic on the 23 rd so the scores of Mushers with their teams of Alaskan and Siberian Huskies can gather there for their pre-race vet check-ups. Most of the Mushers will be happy to share the histories of their dogs and stories of previous races with visitors, and more than willing to let you photograph and even pet their dogs.

A pre-race picnic is held the night before the race and a post-race banquet at the end, so come prepared to enjoy yourself.
Do come prepared rough weather. Plan for lodging ahead of time, wear warm clothing, and be sure your car is equipped with snow tires or other traction devices. The Wallowa Mountain area in winter is definitely, "snow country."

*For more information on sled dog racing check out: 

http://www.eaglecapextreme.com/index.php?  

FOR GOOD READING ABOUT the 1000-mile Alaskan Iditarod Race, check out any of the following books: