This year, Alaska magazine editors asked a few prominent Alaskans from various segments of our community to weigh in on their favorite activities, libations, and destinations in the state.
DeeDee Jonrowe
An iconic Iditarod musher and breast cancer survivor, Jonrowe accumulated 16 top-10 finishes over her 38 years competing in the race, including two runner-up accolades.
Where do you live? Near Willow. We moved to Alaska in 1971 when my father was stationed at Ft. Richardson. I got my B.S. of biological science and renewable resources from UAF and moved to Bethel to work for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. I moved from Bethel to Willow in 1988.
Place to send visitors: On a Happy Trails Kennels tour for a wonderful opportunity to interact with top racing sled dogs.
Film about Alaska: Togo, released in 2019. It tells the story behind the dogs that helped save western Alaskan children during the 1925 diphtheria outbreak.
Restaurant: Lucky Wishbone in Anchorage. I’ve been eating there since 1972. It reminds me of my parents.
Place to watch the northern lights: On the Yukon River while traveling the Iditarod Trail.
Wild Alaskan food: King crab caught during the late winter in Norton Sound.
Mountain to climb: Matanuska Peak. The view makes me feel like I can see forever.
Hike or bike: I enjoy hiking because I can share the experience with my dogs.
Piece of outdoor gear: My custom-made dog sled, but my backcountry skis are a close second.
Camera: iPhone. I most likely have it available wherever I am.
Book about Alaska: On the Edge of Nowhere. Jimmy Huntington was a personal friend.
Museum: The wonderful, newly renovated one in Nome.
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