Experience the Thrilling 2025 Iditarod Start with Scenic Flight and Trailside BBQ in Willow, Alaska
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness to handle cold weather conditions and mild walking on snow and ice.
Overview
Witness the iconic 2025 Iditarod start with a scenic flight over the Susitna Valley and savor a unique trailside BBQ on the frozen Yentna River. Experience the thrill of dog mushing tradition combined with stunning Alaskan landscapes and local hospitality.
Official Start Willow and Trailside BBQ
Sunday, March 8th • 7 Hours
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About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 7-hour adventure to witness the thrilling start of the 2025 Iditarod in Willow. Soar over the breathtaking Susitna Valley, feel the excitement at the start line, and enjoy a cozy “trailgating” BBQ on the frozen Yentna River, all while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this legendary race.
Duration
7 Hours
About
Our adventure begins at our office in Talkeetna, where we'll board our planes and take off for the thrilling journey to Willow for the official start of the 2025 Iditarod! As we soar over the stunning Susitna Valley, keep an eye out for fans gathered on frozen lakes, eagerly awaiting the start of this epic race. Arriving in Willow, we'll take a short walk to the heart of the action: the start line. Immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere as mushers and their teams take off on the last great race! After joining in the excitement, we’ll return to the plane and follow the trail where your pilot will touch down on the frozen Yentna River at the Iditarod Trailside Lodge. Here you’ll join your lodge hosts and locals for a bit of “trailgating” including a full bbq and fire pit. Depending on trail conditions you may catch the the first few mushers pass before returning to Talkeetna at sunset.
What to Bring
- Sunglasses
- Camera
- Winter Coat, Hat & Gloves (in the winter)
What's Included
- Loaner sunglasses if you forget
- Headset
- BBQ lunch
Adventure Tips
Dress in layered, insulated clothing
Temperatures in March can drop below freezing; layering ensures warmth during outdoor parts of the trip.
Bring a camera with a zoom lens
Capture detailed shots of the musher teams and vast Susitna Valley landscapes from the aircraft and on the ground.
Prepare for icy terrain at the BBQ site
Wear sturdy, waterproof boots with good traction to comfortably navigate the frozen Yentna River surface.
Stay hydrated and bring sunscreen
Sunlight reflecting off snow can cause dehydration and sunburn even in cold weather.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Moose roaming the Susitna Valley
- Bald eagles soaring above frozen rivers
History
The Iditarod Trail was originally a mail and supply route connecting remote Alaskan communities during winter, and the race honors this legacy every year.
Conservation
The operators follow strict guidelines to minimize impact on the fragile winter ecosystem, including limiting ground disturbances and managing waste carefully.
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Adventure Hotspots in Talkeetna
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Insulated winter jacket
Keeps you warm throughout the flight and outdoor activities in subfreezing temperatures.
winter specific
Waterproof boots
Essential for walking safely on icy river surfaces during the BBQ portion of the trip.
winter specific
Camera with zoom lens
Helps capture distant dog teams and scenic aerial views clearly.
Layered thermal clothing
Allows regulation of body temperature during periods of activity and rest outdoors.
winter specific