What is Race, Day 3 about?

On Day 3, Paulsen realizes that he will be lucky to finish the race, as his dogs and the other teams slowly climb in altitude. He had somewhat secretly hoped to win but now he realizes that this is an impossible task. Plus, he is still incredibly tired, despite getting some rest at local checkpoints. Nonetheless, he describes himself as "steeped in beauty" and enjoying the Iditarod just for being able to experience the landscape.