Dryland mushing isn’t just for Alaska. In this episode of Mushing, Robert Forto interviews Christine Taylor and Alexandra Crossett, two competitive mushers from New Jersey who are proving that dog-powered sports can thrive far from traditional sled dog country.

Christine and Alexandra explain how they discovered the sport, the early dogs who started it all, and how their local club, the Jersey Sands Sled Dog Racing Association,  helped them move from recreational runs to the IFSS Dryland World Championships. They share what training looks like in the Pine Barrens, why some trails won’t allow bikes, the impact of weather on racing conditions, and the community support that got their teams to a global event.

They also talk about:

• Bikejor, scooter, and rig racing
• Training before dawn and after dark to protect dog health
• Trail access issues and laws impacting the sport
• The gear they never run without (helmets and eye protection)
• How climate and race logistics will shape the future of mushing
• Growing canine sports for new pet owners and working breeds

Whether you're a racer, adventurer, or curious dog enthusiast, this is a powerful inside look at the evolving world of dryland mushing.

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Trail Bytes 2025

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