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
Follow the Moments That Make Wind River Country
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.
June has arrived! Take a peek at the events around Wind River Country including Eastern Shoshone Indian Days Powwow, Dubois Friday Night Rodeos, Lander Brewfest and 1838 Mountain Man Rendezvous!
#CowboyState #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY
Jun 1
One of the best ways to experience Wind River Country this summer is on the water. You can enjoy over 2,000 miles of rivers and streams and 262 lakes and reservoirs.
Photo: Jared Steinman
May 29
Welcome to the Cowboy State, a place that`s made for riding horses and enjoying the great outdoors. Book a stay at a guest ranch and experience Wyoming like a true cowboy.
Book your adventure at the link in our bio.
Photos: Wyoming Office of Tourism, Davis Clem, Gary Kunis
#WindRiverCountry #Wyoming #ThatsWY #CowboyState
May 27
Say hello to a summer in Wyoming filled with wide open spaces and some of the best events around.
Photo: Wind River Country/Preston Ackerman
#CowboyState #ThatsWY #WindRiverCountry #Wyoming
May 24
Planning a summer road trip? Hit the road on a scenic driving tour around Wind River Country.
Learn all about the area`s driving tours in our bio.
Photos: Wind River Country, David Rule
#CowboyState #Wyoming #ThatsWY #WindRiverCountry
May 22
Ready for the ultimate Wild West getaway? Discover history in Lander at the Fremont County Pioneer Museum.
Photo: Wind River Country/Suite 1491
May 20
If you`re ready for a unique Wyoming stay, we`ve got the perfect place for you. Just outside of Lander in Sinks Canyon State Park you`ll find a cozy yurt stay.
Photos: Wind River Country & Brady McLean
#ThatsWY #Wyoming #CowboyState #WindRiverCountry
May 18
Our region is home to eight unforgettable stops you won’t want to miss. From quiet, historic towns with small populations to lively small cities, Wind River Country offers something for everyone.
Start planning your trip at the link in our bio.
Photos: Wyoming Office of Tourism & Wind River Country
#WindRiverCountry #CowboyState #Wyoming
May 15
Looking for epic mountain biking? You’ll find it in Wind River Country 🚵♂️
From rugged trails to scenic rides, adventure is waiting around every turn. Start planning: https://windriver.org/experience/mountain-road-biking/
Photos : DART Trails & Wind River Country
#Beautiful #Wyoming #WindRiverCountry #CowboyState
May 14
Happy Mother’s Day from Wyoming`s Wind River Country. 💐
Photo: Brad Christensen
#Wyoming #Beautiful #WindRiverCountry #MothersDay
May 10
Community Cocktail Tasting tonight in Riverton!
Be sure to head to Bar 10 and taste Wyoming inspired cocktails at 6:30 p.m. TONIGHT! What a great pre Mother`s Day activity!
#WindRiverCountry #CowboyState #ThatsWY #Wyoming
May 9
Big news from Wind River Country—we’ve launched a brand-new website!
The updated windriver.org makes it simple to explore outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, local events and more—all in one place.
Whether you’re planning a full itinerary or a quick getaway, everything you need is just a click away.
Start planning your adventure: windriver.org (link in bio)!
#WindRiverCountry #ThatsWY #CowboyState #Wyoming
May 9
