With the expansion of the Union Pacific Railroad into Ashton in 1906, followed by the additions of the Yellowstone Branch connecting Ashton to Island Park and then West Yellowstone in 1908. The branches for the Lamont and Teton Valley areas were completed in 1912. But the terrain was filled with the deep snow and the railways closed down for winter, not to be plowed until spring. Which meant, in winter, mail, people, and supplies could only be transported to developments in these high country areas via dog sled. By 1917, mushing, in Ashton, was a serious business

Celebrate the orginal get-out-and-get-after-it spirit of the Yellowstone Teton Territory with the American Dog Derby February 20-21 as mushers compete for $12,000 purse that has rewritten the rules for sled dogs. The Cordingly Race, the pro division is a 56 mile route that begins in Ashton and ends before Robinson Creek Road running parallel to the Henry’s Fork. 

 The urban mushing experience with the Tetons in the distance is a unique way to enjoy the cold temps and take the family out for an authentic old-time sporting event. There’s even an opportunity to run your own dog in the Mutt division. For more information about this year’s Derby, visit americandogderby.com→