Eagle Summit Quest

Two daunting and potentially dangerous summits challenge mushers early in the Summit Quest 300. First, Rosebud Summit, around 80 miles in. Second, Eagle Summit, around 120 miles into the race.

Eagle Summit has road access, making and the wide-open spaces popular among race photographers. The vast expanse is also known for exciting changes in weather, and while low snow meant for a bumpy ride, mushers were greeted with a warm and calm bluebird beauty.

It takes the lead mushers about 24 hours reach Eagle Summit, and, often with considerable effort, they charge right up.

Fairbanks-based musher Deke Naaktgeborentgeboren crests Eagle Summit with a happy team during the Summit Quest 300. Feb. 14, 2021.

Fairbanks-based musher Deke Naaktgeborentgeboren crests Eagle Summit with a happy team during the Summit Quest 300. Feb. 14, 2021.

Hugh Neff, a two-time champion of the 1,000 Mile Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race, mushes up and over Eagle Summit during the Summit Quest 300 across Interior Alaska. Feb.14, 2021.

Hugh Neff, a two-time champion of the 1,000 Mile Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race, mushes up and over Eagle Summit during the Summit Quest 300 across Interior Alaska. Feb.14, 2021.

Fairbanks musher Deke Naaktgeboren makes the final push up Eagle Summit, Interior Alaska, during the 2021 Summit Quest 300. Feb. 14, 2021.

Fairbanks musher Deke Naaktgeboren makes the final push up Eagle Summit, Interior Alaska, during the 2021 Summit Quest 300. Feb. 14, 2021.

The descent down Eagle Summit can easily challenge the best of mushers. Feb. 14, 2021.

The descent down Eagle Summit can easily challenge the best of mushers. Feb. 14, 2021.