On a recent episode of the Burled Arch podcast, we profiled Iditarod veteran musher, Riley Dyche.
Photo credit: Riley Dyche/Darkhorse Racing Kennel
In the heartland of Shenandoah, Iowa, a young dreamer named Riley first found his calling. It was 2010 when fate led him to the snow-draped mountains of Colorado, where he began his journey as a musher, guiding eager tourists through breathtaking landscapes. The thrill of the chase, the bond with the dogs, and the whisper of the wind ignited a passion that would change his life forever.
By 2013, Riley felt the pull of Alaska’s wild beauty—an irresistible call he couldn’t ignore. He packed his bags and made the leap north, joining the team at Alaska Icefield Expeditions. Every summer, he immersed himself in the exhilarating world of sled dog tours, where the laughter of visitors mingled with the joyful barks of his canine companions. Perhaps you crossed paths with him there, sharing stories and smiles amidst the stunning vistas.
Settling in Fairbanks, Riley embarked on a new adventure: building his very own kennel. With each dog he welcomed into his life, his dream grew stronger. The thrill of competition beckoned, and in 2018, he took on the Yukon Quest as a rookie, finishing an impressive 13th place and earning the coveted sportsmanship award. It was a testament to his hard work and the bond he shared with his team.
As the years rolled on, Riley tackled the legendary Iditarod in 2020, crossing the finish line in 25th place and becoming a part of the Elim 11—an experience that would forever be etched in his memory.
This fall, preparing himself and his beloved dogs for the challenges of the 2025 Iditarod. With each run through the Alaskan wilderness, Riley continues to chase his dreams, fueled by the love of his dogs and the spirit of adventure. The journey is far from over, and the best chapters are yet to be written.
We are using a cool card deck that Robert found at an outdoor conference a couple of years ago to help come up with ideas for this story. Check them out here.