Carried by People: The Grit and Community Behind Iron Dog 2026

This year’s Iron Dog has been one of the most challenging in recent memory. Brutal storms, whiteout conditions, deep snow, breaking ice, shifting sea ice, and overflow tested every rider on the course. But what truly stood out wasn’t just endurance. It was the way racers, volunteers, communities, and families showed up for one another when things got tough.

And these challenges weren’t waiting at the finish line.

Storms rolled in off the Bering Sea. Snow piled up fast. Winds erased the trail. Ice shifted across Norton Sound, traditional sea-ice routes became unsafe, and overflow hid beneath fresh drifts. Even the most experienced riders were pushed in ways few races have seen before.

Storms rolled in off the Bering Sea. Snow piled up fast. Winds erased the trail. Ice shifted across Norton Sound, traditional sea-ice routes became unsafe, and overflow hid beneath fresh drifts. Even the most experienced riders were pushed in ways few races have seen before.

Innoko River Overflow Near Takotna/Ophir
After fueling in Takotna and heading toward Poorman on a remote stretch of trail, Team 2 encountered dangerous overflow on the Innoko River. One machine partially broke through, and the team made the smart decision to turn back.

Huge credit to Iron Dog checker Doug Heath, who was immediately ready to respond if needed. Thanks to quick decisions and support on standby, the team returned safely to McGrath later that night.

Golovin Extreme Weather Rescue
Midway through the race, a powerful storm slammed the Golovin section of the trail. Several Expedition Class teams and one Pro Class team became stuck east of Golovin, digging out machines while blizzard winds swept across the tundra.

Huge thanks to the local rescue team from Golovin (left to right): Dale Aylngak, John Peterson, Lonnie Gooden, Darrell Takak

Iron Dog Race Headquarters quickly coordinated with checkpoint crews, Village Public Safety Officers, local rescue teams, and nearby communities to bring everyone safely into Golovin.

Massive thanks to Kim Bergeron and JP from Team 51, along with the Golovin rescue crew Dale Aylngak, John Peterson, Lonnie Gooden, and Darrell Takak. Because of you, every rider made it in safely, warmed up, fed, and in great spirits.

Selawik Search and Rescue Standby
As blizzard conditions continued along the trail, Team 9 was stopped about 12 miles from Selawik for over two hours while replacing an A-Arm on their way toward Kiana.

Selawik Search and Rescue members Norman Sheldon and Enoch Stalker Jr. prepared a rescue mission and were ready to respond if needed. Thankfully, the situation did not escalate, but their readiness and commitment made a difference.

Elim Trail Breakup & Riders Helping Riders
As storm winds swept through the region and sea ice conditions deteriorated across Norton Sound, the traditional ice trail between Koyuk, Elim, and White Mountain became unsafe. Racers were rerouted onto a rugged overland route, adding time, distance, and another layer of difficulty to the push toward Nome.

Outside Elim, shifting conditions pushed teams onto the old mail trail, where deep drifts quickly slowed progress. An Ambassador Team and Team 45 were among the first to become stuck. As more Pro Class teams arrived, the same stretch challenged Teams 14, 44, 49, 3, 21, 23, 42, and 34.

Everyone was working extremely hard, digging out machines, pulling sleds free, and breaking trail together, earning every mile through sheer perseverance and teamwork. Huge thanks to village trail breakers Mitch Aukon, Eric Amuktoolik, and Thomas Saccheus for stepping up and helping lead racers through one of the toughest sections of the race.

👏 A HUGE THANK YOU TO THE REAL HEROES OF IRON DOG 2026

To the rescue teams, Village Public Safety Officers, checkpoint crews, trail breakers, race staff, and volunteers at every checkpoint, and to everyone working behind the scenes long before the green flag ever dropped.

From planning and logistics to fuel drops, safety coordination, GPS tracking, communications, food, shelter, and long nights in freezing conditions, this race runs on the dedication of people who show up no matter what Alaska throws at them.

To the riders who stopped to help when the trail turned brutal.
To the families and communities who opened their doors and shared warmth.
To the supporters cheering at every checkpoint and from home.

You are the reason this race continues safely through Alaska’s toughest terrain.

Through blizzards, overflow, deep snow, shifting ice, and rerouted miles, Iron Dog proved once again that it is carried by people,  not just machines.

This is Iron Dog. 🏁💙

📸 Photo Credits

Elim Photos: Mitch Aukon, Iron Dog Team 45 – Christensen/Christensen, Team 34 – David Payton, Hetteen Heritage Racing

Golovin Photos: Kim Bergeron, Team 60 – Stuart/Stuart