Ten towns from Jackson Hole, Wyo., to Park City, Utah; 307-734-1163 or
Why check this out now: For dog lovers, the potential to hang out with 400 furry friends can’t be beat, and the 25 mushers participating in this, the race’s 15th year — which starts Friday in Jackson Hole and winds up in Park City on Feb. 5 — have stories to share, as well. The events include musher meet-and-greets — including the Jamaican dog-sled team and mushing greats Lance Mackey, Ryan Reddington and Blayne Streeper — pooch parades and pancake breakfasts along the route. Festivities kick off with a pig roast and fireworks. Visit the website for schedules and more info.
Stay: In Jackson Hole, at the luxurious Rusty Parrot Lodge and Spa (175 N. Jackson St., 888-739-1749, ) a few blocks off the Town Square. A lodgepole-pine beauty, the Parrot is quiet and charming and features the contemporary Wild Sage restaurant. Winter rates start at $285 a night. In Park City, the Newpark Hotel (1476 Newpark Blvd., 877-649-3600, ) is unique — reasonably priced, even in winter, and set up like a condo hotel. A one-bedroom suite comes with a living room with sleeper sofa, fully equipped kitchen, spa tub, heated floors and private balcony with hot tub, for $179 a night. You’re about 10 minutes from the Canyons and 15 from Park City.
Dine: In Jackson Hole: The decades-old Sweetwater Restaurant (85 S. King St., 307-733-3553) sits in an old cabin and offers a menu of healthy comfort food alongside local favorites such as elk, trout and lamb, all in a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. In Park City: The Mariposa (7600 Royal St., in the Silver Lake Lodge, 435-645-6715, ) should clone itself and then be plunked down in every city — the service is spot-on, the food is amazing, and the decor is lovely and romantic but fades pleasantly into the background. The tasting menu with paired wines (especially if you aren’t driving) is the way to go. Kyle Wagner
