This review is for the Olney MT Fire departments fundraiser "Flathead Classic Sled Dog Race". We made the trip in from Whitefish, an easy 20 minute drive or so. Three miles past the sign for Olney is the start and finish line. Side roads turn off on the right and left (event is on the left if west bound). Turn off and park on either one. Just hold onto your kids when nearing HWY 93. The event is free, although the Fire Department has coffee for a donation, and some meals and snacks to purchase. Just follow the barking dogs lining the side road up to the event. Yak tracks for your boots are encouraged. The main staging area is a bit "busy" and can be a little misleading. You are encouraged to walk off trail, past the finish line, along the actual race path. Just a little bit in along the trail and it opens up considerably. There is much more visibility to see the teams as they make there way to and from the starting line. Tips: 1. Bring folding chairs 2. Bring a snack and warm drinks 3. Bring a bag for trash since you will likely be some distance in and away from any trash bins. Pack it in pack it out rules apply. 4. Handwarmers if it is cold The event was really active at 9 AM then seemed to settle down by 1 PM, although the teams were still racing. It was a gorgeous day out and we could have easily spent the rest of it watching the racers had we been better prepared. Be prepared to help the all volunteer Fire department which depends on your charity. read more

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