Exciting new developments are happening in Willow including stunning new educational signage at the Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race restart location and an extension of the Shem Pete Interpretive Trail at Newman Memorial Park.
Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race Restart Signage
An impressive new interpretative panel is now on display at the site of the official Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race restart, located right outside the Willow Public Library & Community Center. The Iditarod Trail Dog Sled Race has been restarted at this location since the 1980s, however, no permanent marker designated the site…until now. With the installation of this new signage, residents and visitors can now more easily access information about the race restart, and the vast network of historic trails and recreation opportunities this region in known for.
Thanks to a partnership between the Willow Dog Mushers Association, Alaska State Parks Interpretive and Education Unit, and funding from Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation, this new signage aims to inform the public about the history of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race and its connection to the tremendous winter trail systems in the Susitna Valley including the West Gateway and Lower Susitna Drainage Association trails. These historic trails are well-loved and popular with a number of user groups including snowmachiners, dog mushers, and skiers.
The panel, installed in December of 2024, was researched, designed and fabricated by Alaska State Parks Interpretive and Education Unit. The woodwork was done by Bryan Mills in Willow. A huge thank you to the Willow Dog Mushers Association for their continued efforts to highlight the region’s rich history and vast array of winter recreation opportunities.
Trail Expansion Project: Billy Pete Loop at Newman Memorial Park
As of last fall, the new Billy Pete Loop is open to users! Grant funding from Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation helped support this exciting extension of the Shem Pete Interpretive Trail at Newman Memorial Park in Willow.
Volunteers with the Willow Area Community Organization have contributed countless hours to this area and its trails. Thank you especially to the Youth Forum Committee, for their work on the Billy Pete Loop project, which adds 3/4 of a mile trail to the network of trails to be enjoyed in all seasons at Newman Memorial Park.
Newman Memorial Park has something for everyone – in addition to multi-use nature trails, the park also features a one-of-a-kind fenced-in wilderness dog park, a new bike park, a stunning viewing deck, and delightful covered pavilion.
Getting there: Turn west on the Willow Creek Parkway (near mile 71 of the Parks Highway). Travel approximately 1 mile down the Parkway and then turn left to enter Newman Memorial Park.
Donors like you are vital to the success of these projects! Together, along with partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and volunteers we are making critical investments to the outdoors spaces that make our communities thrive.
Now through March 31 you can select Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation as the recipient for a portion of your PFD.
Apply for your PFD at pfd.alaska.gov and Pick.Click.Give. today.
EASIEST WAY TO DONATE For Alaskans
While applying for their PFD online, Alaskans can choose to Pick.Click.Give. in increments of $25. All donations are tax deductible and donors will receive tax documentation from the State once their donations have been processed. Permanent Fund Dividend applications are available from January 1 to March 31, though Alaskans may choose to add or adjust their pledges online through August 31.
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The Mat-Su Trails & Parks Foundation partners with organizations and local governments on projects and efforts that expand and enhance the valley’s network of trails and parks. Find out how we can help fund your next trail, park, or recreation project!
