Iditarod Vocabulary

Iditarod

• A famous long-distance sled dog race held every year in Alaska.

• A type of Alaskan fish commonly used in local cuisine.

• A traditional Alaskan dance performed during winter festivals.

• A popular tourist destination known for its scenic views.

Haw

• Command for right turn.

• Command for left turn.

• Command to speed up.

• Command to slow down.

Mandatory Rest

• The required time mushers and dogs must stop and rest during the race.

• A type of food that mushers must provide to their dogs.

• A specific route that mushers must follow during the race.

• The total distance that mushers can travel in a day.

Gangline

• The line (cable) that connects the sled to the team of dogs.

• A type of harness used for dog sledding.

• The area where the dogs rest during a sledding trip.

• A command given to dogs to start running.

Checkpoint

• A stopping place along the race where mushers rest, check on their dogs, and get supplies.

• A type of dog used in sled racing.

• A location where mushers start their race.

• A place where mushers train their dogs.

Finish Line

• The starting point of the race where mushers prepare their teams.

• The end of the race where mushers and their teams complete the journey.

• A checkpoint along the race route for mushers to rest.

• The area where spectators gather to cheer for the mushers.

Dogsled Team

• A group of dogs trained to pull a sled.

• A team of dogs that race in competitions.

• A group of dogs that guard a property.

• A pack of wild dogs living in the forest.

Trail Marker

• A sign or object that helps mushers know they are going the right way.

• A type of food used by mushers during long races.

• A tool for measuring the distance traveled by sled dogs.

• A decorative item used to mark the starting line of a race.

Sled

• A type of food served in winter

• A vehicle used for traveling over snow and ice, pulled by dogs in the race.

• A tool for cutting wood

• A type of clothing worn in cold weather

Burled Arch

• The starting point of the Iditarod race.

• The finish line in Nome.

• A famous mountain in Alaska.

• A type of traditional Alaskan food.