These epic races of endurance are few and far between nowadays, especially ones that involve humans and animals working in tandem.
On their way to the finish line, the racers pass through many small Alaskan cities, which gives spectators a front-row seat to the race.  In towns where the race passes through it is a monumental event that the whole town often turns out to watch.  These epic races of endurance are few and far between nowadays, especially ones that involve humans and animals working in tandem.  This is why the Iditarod has made my list of the top festivals and events for travelers to experience in their lifetime.