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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See Wind River Country as it happens, on the trail, in town and out on the land. Follow along for real moments from real people, and share your own journey by tagging @windrivercountry.
Happy Labor Day from Wind River Country. 🇺🇸☀️
Here`s to the long weekend! Whether you`re hitting the trail, casting a line or just enjoying the view, we hope you have a safe and memorable holiday.
📍Where are you exploring today?
Photo: Davis Clem
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Sep 7
We love fall colors…who else is ready?
Photo: Scott Copeland
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Sep 5
The best way to see Wyoming? From the back of a horse.
Photo: Davis Clem
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Sep 2
Sometimes all you need is a change of scenery. 🌄 Wind River Country is waiting.
Photo: Davis Clem
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Aug 31
"The landscape of the American West has to be seen to be believed and has to be believed to be seen." – N. Scott Momaday
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Photo: Wind River Country, Brady McLean
Aug 28
Explore the stories, history and traditions of the Wind River Indian Reservation.
As the only reservation in Wyoming and home to the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes, it`s a place rich in culture and heritage. Take the self-guided driving tour to learn more about the people, places and history that make this landscape so special.
Want to learn more? Visit the link in our bio.
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Photo: Wind River Country
Aug 27
If you`re ready to find room to breathe and space to roam, take a deep dive into the heart of Wind River Country.
Start planning in our bio.
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Photo: Bill Sincavage
Aug 26
As we`re approaching hunting season, there`s no better photo opp than this.
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Aug 22
While we`ve got lots of hidden gems in Wind River Country, Sinks Canyon is one of the coolest. It`s located at the base of the Wind River Mountains, with landscapes that include foothills, forests, waterways and more. Plus, it`s a short drive from Lander.
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Aug 19
Saddle up and experience Wyoming the way it was meant to be experienced. 🐴
Guest ranches and outfitters throughout Wind River Country offer guided pack trips that take you deep into some of Wyoming`s most breathtaking backcountry.
Start planning your stay in our bio.
Photo: Bill Sincavage
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Aug 17
We love a good waterfall moment.
Photo: Tori Jones
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Aug 14
If you`re ready to find room to breathe, take a deep dive into the heart of Wind River Country by learning more from our friends at Cowboys & Indians.
Read the full story at the link in our bio.
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Aug 12
