In this episode of Wyoming’s Wind River Country: Yellowstone’s Unique Neighbor, Charene Herrera and Helen Wilson take you to one of winter’s most exhilarating traditions, the Pedigree Stage Stop Dog Sled Race in Lander.
Earlier this month, the sound of eager sled dogs and cheering spectators filled the crisp winter air as the race returned to town. We were there for the Meet the Mushers event in Lander City Park on February 6, where families gathered around a bonfire, kids leaned in to pet the dogs and mushers shared stories about life on the trail. Seeing these incredible canine athletes up close—their focus, their energy and the bond between each musher and team—makes the sport feel both powerful and personal.
The following morning, we headed to South Pass, where the dogs launched from the Louis Lake Road parking lot at 9 a.m. One by one, teams burst off the starting line, sled runners gliding over packed snow as spectators cheered them into the wide-open landscape. The excitement builds quickly, along with a deep appreciation for the endurance and teamwork required to compete at this level.
The race brings world-class competition to communities across western Wyoming each winter, but what stood out most was the sense of connection, between musher and dog, between neighbors gathered along the course and between this event and the rugged winter character of Wind River Country.
It was one of those bright, cold Wyoming mornings that reminds you why winter here is something to celebrate.
Winter in Motion: The Pedigree Stage Stop Dog Sled Race in Lander
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Escape to Wyoming.
Photo: Haley Ford
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Jul 2
📍South Pass City, Wyoming
While you can visit this historic gold mining town from the end of May – mid October, save the date for Gold Rush Days – July 11 & 12.
Photo: Wind River Country
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Jun 26
🏔️ Travel back to 1838 at the Mountain Man Rendezvous happening in Riverton, Wyoming.
Beginning tomorrow (6/26), immerse yourself in the traditions, skills and stories of the fur trade era.
📸 Photo: Wind River Country/Brad Christensen
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Jun 25
There`s no place quite like old Wyo`.
Photo: Journal of Lost Time
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Jun 23
When the mountains call, there’s only one thing to do. Go.
Photo: Journal of Lost Time
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Jun 19
Ready to learn more about the wild horses of the West? The Wind River Wild Horse Sanctuary – which is located on the Wind River Indian Reservation – has a visitor center with an interpretive display, and also offers guided tours.
Plan your trip at the link in our bio.
Photo: Melissa Hemkin
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Jun 17
This is what we like to call the perfect summer day in Wind River Country.
Photo: Wind River Country/Paula McCormick
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Jun 15
Combine history and modern-day culture at the Eastern Shoshone Indian Days Powwow, June 19-21. Held in Fort Washakie, the event includes a parade, hand game tournament, drum contest, Indian rodeo and relay races and Grand Entries.
Find more information at the link in our bio.
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Jun 13
The wilds of Wyoming are calling. Start planning your trip at the link in our bio.
Photos: Jhamil Bader, Jennifer Lips, Granite & Light, Wind River Country
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Jun 11
Plan a trip to Lander and Lander Brewfest to enjoy 80+ beers made all across the Mountain West on June 12-13. We hope to see you there – cheers!
Photo: Wyoming Office of Tourism
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Jun 8
Rodeo season is officially starting in Wind River Country. Be sure to join us as we kick off the first night of the Dubois Friday Night Rodeos TONIGHT! And if you can`t make this one, you can catch rodeo action every Friday through August 21.
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Photos: Brady McLean
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Jun 5
Spring storms and lush landscapes.
Start planning your visit at the link in our bio.
Photo: Scott Copeland
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Jun 4
