Ruby is the first checkpoint on the famed Yukon River. The first driver there earns a gourmet dinner and a cash prize. Among the bigger checkpoints are Unalakleet, population 714, and Nulato with 450. Several stops, such as Ophir and Cripple, are ghost towns. Most of the stops have a small store, phone service and limited lodging.
Some stops offer no more than the checker's cabin.
Naturally, most northern breeds were used as sled dogs. Alaskan Malamutes, Siberian Huskies, Eskimo dogs, Greenlands, Samoyeds, Norrbottenspets, and Hokkaidokens are all sled dogs. However, lots of different breeds of dogs have been and are used to drive sleds and carts. People use Irish Setters, Dalmations, Golden Retrievers, etc., to enjoy mushing sports. Mushing is fun, both to take part in and simply to watch.