Laconia Sled Dog Race - where to watch?
 

My husband and I are planning to watch some of the sled dog race next weekend, and trying to figure out where we should go to watch it. Near the start/finish at the old prison grounds? Or are there other places along the race routes that would be good spectator areas? We're within walking distance of the Laconia country club - do they allow non-members onto the property to watch the race from there? I checked the website, but other than the schedule and maps I didn't find any info as to where to watch (or park, if we end up driving there).

AS a photographer, I find the best bang for my effort is to stay near the start/finish. There are great photos to be had in the "pits", at the start with the dogs straining on the sled and the racers coming back up over the slight hill to the finish.

You can also cross the street to the prison grounds and shoot them coming in and out of the woods and at some turns.

Position yourself at a turn with the dogs coming at you. That way you can get some nice head on shots without being in the way as they turn away from you. I also tend to get down on the ground to be at eye level with the dogs.

Where would you park if you want to be at the start/finish line? Looked at their web site and couldn't find the info...

We have a great view and a place to get warm if needed at Tavern 27 on parade rd. I'm trying to talk the kitchen into hush puppy and slider specials:laugh:

Parking...
 

Right along Parade Rd./Rte. 106. North Main Street, First come-first served.


Those Hush Puppies gonna be Gluten Free??:liplick:

Parking is a problem. All this recent snow shrunk our lot by 4 spaces. Many come by snowmobile. Do they clear the parking lot a Robbie Mills Park? It is not that far of a walk or snowshoe.

Leslie has has a gluten free recipe for corn hushpuppies that she learned from Mom back in Louisiana.

Thanks for the input and advice! I think we might try for the start/finish line - and we'll see if I can talk the hubby into Tavern 27 ;)

Just check Robbie Mills Field. Sorry to report that the parking lot is not plowed.

There is parking along the side of Parade Road by the prison. Then you can walk down to the start - finish line. The teams also cross Route 3 further up - six dog teams by Southdown and open teams by Plant Pedaler. You can also park at Laconia Country Club and watch them there.

There's limited parking at the end of Shore Drive. You can walk a short trail from there and see the teams navigating some good corners and a steep hill as they pass through Ahern Park.

Where I like to watch...
 

Personally I enjoy visiting the "pits" between races but during the events I like to get out to a quiet spot where I can keep other spectators out of the shots. There are some nice quiet spots off Meredith Center Road and Parade Road. They're close to the road but away from the crowds.

I agree that down low, on a turn, equals great shots :)

Awesome shots DJ. You've captured the moment perfectly. Do you think any of those spots can be reached without snowshoes this year?

Thanks

Ha! I believe the one taken from Meredith Center road will be accessable. It's only about 20 feet off the road. Now the one taken from near Parade road may be a bit more questionable as it was about 75 yards from the road :)

The second wasn't too far from a trail-road crossing though if I remember right. You may be able to walk down the trail if you're mindful of the starting time and the passing of the last team.

WoW
 

It was my first time but very special to watch the teams race past our front door. The four tables in our front dining areas have a great view. Get hear by 1:45