FEB. 9-MARCH 26: MUSH! IN ALASKA, IT'S RACE TIME

As if the triple crown of dog-sledding wasn't inspiring enough, this year a single athlete, Lance Mackey, will try to conquer the three races: the 25-year-old Yukon Quest (starting Feb. 9), the famed Iditarod (starting March 1) and the newly reinstated All Alaska Sweepstakes (leaving March 26). The All Alaska Sweepstakes alone, founded 100 years ago and back this year for a special run after a hiatus, is 408 miles of sledding.

To find out how to get in on the beginning or ending festivities of these races, and more about winter travel in Alaska, go to one of these Web sites: www.yukonquest.com or www.iditarod.com. Or check www .travelalaska.com (click winter vacations; also order a free guide).

NOV. 23-25: AN ARTSY WEEKEND ON THE MOUNTAIN

The 21st annual Volcano Village Art Studio Tour and Sale is set for Nov. 23, 24 and 25, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day in the studios, shops and other open spaces of the Islands' artsiest location. Visit and talk story with 11 members of the Volcano Village Artists Hui (such as as gallery owner Ira Ono), plus five guest artists. (And there are unofficial studio openings and such, too. Information: 808-933-9772; amooon@big island.com.

Tip 1: Don't forget to visit the farmers market on Sunday at the civic center; there's great hot food, gorgeous fruits and vegetables, crafts and such.

Tip 2: Get your hotel or B&B or vacation cottage accommodations now, if you want to stay up the hill, although Hilo is only 30 minutes away.

NOV. 10-11: BIG-WAVE KICK-OFF

The North Shore Festival, which annually heralds the start of the big-wave season and the surf meets that go with it, takes place at Hale'iwa Beach Park from noon to 10 p.m. Nov. 10 and 11. The event includes feature films, live music, cultural performances, food vendors, arts and crafts, community displays and a Keiki Village. Coming up, the competitive period for the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, Nov. 12 to Dec. 20, if waves cooperate. Last year's festival drew 13,000 participants. Consider an overnight at nearby Turtle Bay Resort, at one of the vacation rentals in the area, or in one of the funky surf hostels in town. Information: www.northshorefestival .com.