Venturing to Alaska in winter offers an unforgettable encounter with its stunning landscapes, icy terrains, and a thrilling activity that is synonymous with its history - dog sledding. An ancient traditional method of transportation, dog sledding has evolved into an exhilarating sport and a must-try Alaskan experience.
This post explores the incredible world of dog sledding in Alaska, offering a range of unforgettable experiences. From multi-day expeditions to half-day tours, there's something for everyone. But if, for some reason, you do not find the experience you are looking for in this roundup post of the Best Dog Sledding in Alaska, consider reading our other comprehensive post that covers All The Dog Sled Tour Companies in Alaska.
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Best Dog Sled Expeditions in Alaska
Arctic Dog Adventure Co.
Arctic Dog Adventure Co.'s Multi-Day Expeditions are an unforgettable journey into Northern Alaskan wilderness. Their signature Arctic expeditions offer the unique chance to dog sled across the stunning treeless landscapes of the Itikmalik River of the Brooks Range, far above the Arctic Circle. Over 5 days, you will experience snow-capped mountains, migrating caribou, and the mesmerizing spring aurora.
Your adventure begins with a 1-hour flightseeing tour from Fairbanks to Coldfoot, Alaska, located 60 miles North of the Arctic Circle. From there, you'll embark on a 100-mile drive North to Galbraith Lake, an ancient glacial lake on the North side of the Brooks Range. Along the way, you'll pass incredible landmarks like Sukakpak Mountain and the famous Atigun Pass of the Brooks Range, keeping an eye out for wildlife like musk ox, caribou, dall sheep, wolves, or even grizzlies.
Once you reach Galbraith Lake, you'll be met by teams of sled dogs and given a brief mushing lesson before heading off to camp. The next several days will be dedicated solely to dog sledding, exploring the tundra and creek valleys surrounding our camp, playing in the shadows of the mountains, and searching for dropped caribou antlers.
This expedition is moderately difficult due to narrow backcountry trails that require balance, fitness, and the ability to endure hard falls onto ice or hard-packed snow. No previous mushing experience is required, and you will be taught everything you need to know to feel comfortable and equipped for your days on the trail. However, basic physical fitness is necessary as dog mushing is a physically demanding activity.
The expedition concludes with a return flight from Coldfoot to Fairbanks. If this sounds like the dog sledding expedition for you, click here to select your dates!
Earth Song Lodge
Earth Song Lodges offers a variety of trips centered around Denali National Park and Preserve including the Two-Day Slate Lake or Sushana River Overnight Expedition. This thrilling trip is specifically designed for guests with prior dog sledding experience, as it combines dog yard training with the first day of driving their own team.
The expedition begins with a comprehensive training session where guests familiarize themselves with their dog team. Then they embark on a journey that covers approximately 28 miles towards one of Earth Song Lodge's cozy cabins situated along the Stampede Trail and Stampede Valley.
Given the combination of training and travel on the first day, the Sushana River option may not always be available, depending on trail conditions and the time of year. However, the Slate Lake cabin option, being closer, is usually offered from late December through early April.
This trip provides guests with the opportunity to drive their own small teams, immersing them in the authentic Alaskan wilderness experience.
Click here to learn more about their trips.
Bush Alaska Expeditions
Bush Alaska Expeditions offers unique and challenging multi-day dog sled tours in the remote wilderness of Interior Alaska. These tours are not tourist-oriented; they are authentic experiences, much like traveling as it was done over a century ago. For 7 to 10 days, guests traverse various trail systems, experiencing topographical diversities that the region around Eagle, Alaska offers.
Upon arrival, guests begin their training with day trips on established trails, covering 12 to 25 miles daily. The trails range onto the Yukon River, through large river drainages, mountain passes, and lake crossings, offering varied conditions for novice training.
The adventure continues with options to run the Yukon Quest trail, overnight at a remote checkpoint cabin, or delve deep into the glaciated mountain ranges of the “40-Mile” country. The remoteness guarantees no human encounters for days.
The tours require physical fitness due to their demanding nature. Even beginners should be in good shape, capable of jogging/walking 2 miles in less than half an hour. The expeditions are limited to 2 clients per guide to ensure a personalized experience.
Best Helicopter & Glacier Dog Sled Tours in Alaska
Turning Heads Kennel
With Turning Heads Kennel your journey begins with a 15-minute helicopter ride that takes you up the scenic route of Godwin Glacier. Enjoy an aerial view of the stunning blue ice and immense waterfalls, and on your return, fly through a breathtaking glacier-filled valley.
Upon landing on the upper part of Godwin Glacier, the largest glacier just outside of Seward, you'll spend about an hour exploring the snowy terrain. Meet friendly sled dogs and knowledgeable guides who will lead you on an exciting 25-minute dog sled ride across the beautiful glacier. Along the way, your guide will stop to take memorable photos of you with the team.
The fun doesn't stop there. The tour also includes an opportunity to snuggle adorable husky puppies and help socialize the next generation of canine athletes. Experience the magic of winter in summer and create memories that will last a lifetime with this unique expedition.
Alaska Icefield Expeditions
Experience the thrill of dog sledding and the beauty of glacier flightseeing in one incredible tour with Alaska Icefield Expeditions. Departing from the main cruise ship terminal in Juneau, you'll take a scenic helicopter ride to Herbert Glacier.
Here you'll meet Alaskan huskies at the dog sledding camp, learn from experienced mushers, and take a kennel tour. The highlight is driving the sled over the snow, an adrenaline-pumping experience you won't forget. Afterward, enjoy photo ops and a return helicopter flight over the glaciers. The 3-hour tour includes round-trip transportation, traction overboots, and restroom facilities.
AK Sled Dog Tours
This unique experience allows you to drive your own sled-dog team on real snow in the middle of summer, all while being surrounded by Alaska's stunning landscape.
Your journey commences with a thrilling helicopter ride over majestic glaciers and icebergs, offering unparalleled views of the Alaskan wilderness. Upon landing on a vast snowfield high on a glacier, you'll spend an hour in the company of Alaskan sled dogs and their dedicated mushers who call this icy paradise home throughout the summer.
Experience the rush of guiding your dog team on an exhilarating sled ride through the pristine snow, a truly authentic Alaskan experience. This tour is perfect for families, often seeing three generations sharing this unique experience together.
After the excitement of the sled ride, you'll have the opportunity to meet the incredible canine athletes that powered your sled. Listen to fascinating stories about the endurance of these dogs, capable of running races over 1,000 miles long. Don't miss the chance to meet adorable puppies and remember to take plenty of photos with your favorite dogs as a lasting memento of this extraordinary adventure.
Best Overnight Mushing Tours in Alaska
Arctic Dog Adventure Co
Arctic Dog Adventure Co. offers a Hut to Hut Dog Sled trip, a winter excursion that takes you into the heart of the White Mountains National Recreation Area north of Fairbanks, Alaska. This vast wilderness spans over one million acres, offering scenic landscapes and ideal conditions for dog sledding.
On this tour, participants spend 5-7 full days dog sledding, led by trained guides who also provide mushing lessons. The unique aspect of this tour is the opportunity to drive your own dog team, giving you a hands-on experience of this traditional Alaskan transport method.
Accommodation is provided in rustic log cabins, nestled deep within the wilderness. Without electricity or running water, the cabins offer a simple yet comfortable stay. They can accommodate between 6 to 8 people, making it an intimate experience. Meals are provided during the stay, offering a taste of local cuisine.
One of the highlights of this tour is the chance to see the northern lights. From November to March, the clear Alaskan skies often display this natural spectacle, making for an unforgettable end to the day.
Basic photography instruction is also part of the package, helping you capture the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness and potentially the aurora borealis.
The Hut to Hut tour is a blend of adventure, relaxation, and a chance to experience Alaska's stunning winter landscapes up close.
Chena Outdoor Co.
Chena Outdoor Co.'s Overnight Expedition is a two-day adventure through the Chena River Valley in Alaska. Starting at the Chena Outdoor Collective, participants get outfitted with winter gear and meet their Alaskan Husky team at Ryno Kennel. After basic sled driving lessons, they mush down the Yukon Quest trail and along the frozen Chena River. They camp in Arctic Oven tents at Trapline Mountain, a prime spot for aurora viewing.
Day 2 involves more sledding through black spruce forests and birch groves, with potential wildlife sightings. The tour ends around 3:00 PM back at the Collective. The expedition runs from December to early April, covering 15-20 miles per day. Food, gear, and training are provided.
Best Dog Sledding Day Tours in Alaska
📍 Fairbanks
Arctic Dog Adventure Co.
Established in 2016 by Iditarod musher Lisbet Norris and wildlife biologist Nils Pedersen, Arctic Dog Adventure Co. is Alaska's pioneering certified ecotourism dog sledding company. As third-generation mushers, Norris and Pedersen bring profound expertise and a steadfast dedication to ethical dog mushing practices.
Offering Half and Full Day Dog Sled Tours in Fairbanks, guests have the opportunity to “Drive your Own Dog Sled” on this authentic Alaskan mushing experience! You are not a passenger on this adventure – you are an active participant, driving your own team of 4-6 dogs.
Cold weather gear is provided and no previous mushing experience is required.
Black Spruce Dog Sledding
Black Spruce Dog Sledding Day Tours offers an immersive Alaskan adventure that begins in a cozy warming tent where guests can prepare for the cold with provided gear. Here, you'll meet friendly Alaskan Huskies, learn about their origins and the reasons they're used for sledding, and have a chance to play and take photos with them.
The real thrill starts when you prepare for a 4-mile sled run. You'll learn how to harness and hook up the dogs to the sled, then get the opportunity to both drive a "tag sled" and sit as a passenger in the guide's sled. The trail includes multiple stops for photo ops and swapping positions.
After the run, there's time for more photos and assisting with returning the dogs to their houses. Throughout the tour, you'll learn about the 1,000 mile Iditarod from real long-distance mushers. This hands-on experience with Black Spruce Dog Sledding Day Tours is a unique way to engage in an authentic Alaskan tradition.
Trailbreaker Kennel
On the Trail Breakers Kennels Day Tour, you'll experience the thrill of a 4-mile sled ride across the magnificent Tanana River, guided by the spirited Alaskan Huskies. This 1-hour tour lets you meet and harness the huskies, learn about dog mushing history, and gain insight into modern sled dog training.
Founded by a 4-time Iditarod champion, the kennel is an iconic part of Alaskan culture and the perfect experience for dog-lovers and outdoor adventurers. The tour costs $125 per person and requires guests to be at least 4 years old. Dress warmly and prepare for an unforgettable adventure.
Rod’s Alaskan Guide Service
Rod's Alaskan Guide Services Day Tours offer an unforgettable journey into the heart of Alaska's wilderness. Based in North Pole, Alaska, these tours take you on an exhilarating dog sledding adventure, guided by a team of Alaskan Huskies.
These tours aren't just about the ride - they're about forming a connection with the beautiful Alaskan Huskies, each one raised and cared for by the team of experienced mushers and guides. These dogs are more than just sled-pulling animals; they're family members, involved in prestigious races like the Yukon Quest and Iditarod, and integral to the subsistence lifestyle led here.
The tours range from 30 minutes to 4 hours, each offering a different level of engagement and adventure. The 30-minute ride is perfect for those looking for a quick taste of dog sledding, while the 1-hour experience offers more time to enjoy the ride and learn about the dogs. The 2-hour Musher Adventure provides a deeper insight into the life of a musher, and the 4-hour Aurora Adventure combines the thrill of dog sledding with the magical experience of viewing the Northern Lights.
Rod's Alaskan Guide Services Day Tours aim to provide the best dog sledding experience in Fairbanks, tailored to your preferences and ensuring an unforgettable adventure.
📍 Anchorage/Mat-Su
Susitna Sled Dog Adventures
Susitna Sled Dog Adventures is home to a family of 40 delightful huskies and their human companions, where the thrill of Alaska's official sport - dog sledding - is shared with visitors from all around the world. Whether it's a winter tour with stunning views of Denali or a summer kennel visit, guests are given an intimate look into the lives of these amazing sled dog athletes.
Run by Rohn & Alyssa Buser, the main goal at Susitna Sled Dog Adventures is to make guests feel like part of the family. The dogs love meeting new people and showcasing their incredible passion for running.
Tours and events are fully customizable, providing a hands-on experience of the mushing lifestyle. It is hoped that guests leave with admiration and respect for these remarkable animals. An invitation is extended to all to join for an unforgettable adventure and create some incredible memories together.
Alaska Husky Adventures
At Alaska Husky Adventures you will get to ride with champion huskies across private trails, enjoying breathtaking views of Denali. Available from November to April.
Enjoy an authentic winter dog sled ride driven by an experienced musher. The total tour length is approximately 1.5 hours, covering a trail distance of 6 miles. The actual ride time ranges from 45 minutes to an hour.
The tours accommodate party sizes from 1-8 people, with a minimum of 2 per tour. Solo riders are welcome when the minimum is met. For groups larger than 8, please call to arrange. Suitable for ages 3 and up, this unique experience not only offers stunning landscapes but also the chance to play and interact with the dogs.
Alaska Mushing School
Alaska Mushing School Day Tours offer an immersive experience into the world of dog sledding, Alaska's official state sport. Guests have the opportunity to visit a renowned Iditarod kennel, learn about the mushing lifestyle, and embark on a thrilling six-mile ride through Alaska's diverse wilderness. Guided by a professional musher, the journey traverses frozen lakes, spruce forests, tundra, and mountainous landscapes, with potential wildlife sightings along the way.
The tour, suitable for ages three and up, lasts 1.5 hours and includes time to play with sled dog puppies after the ride. For those who need extra warmth, Arctic-quality outerwear is available at no additional cost. This adventure requires a two-person minimum and stands as their most popular winter tour. It offers a unique, non-commercialized glimpse into Alaskan culture and way of life.
Best Lodge-Based Dog Sledding in Alaska
Squid Acres Kennel
With Squid Acres Lodge-based trips you will be transported to the luxurious Susitna Adventure Lodge, nestled in the Alaska Range, either by ski plane or tracked snow coach. From this base, you'll embark on daily expeditions into the mountains led by a team of huskies, with the unique opportunity to learn dog mushing and guide your own sled. Each day's activities are custom-tailored to match the abilities and fitness levels of the guests.
The five-day itinerary blends exciting mushing adventures on picturesque mountain trails, delectable gourmet meals crafted by a professional chef, and the chance to witness the awe-inspiring northern lights from the lodge. The final day starts with a sunrise dog run before a leisurely brunch and departure.
The trip begins early morning on the first day and concludes late afternoon on the fifth day, catering to a group size between three and six people. The tour includes all meals, gear, and the arrangement of ski plane flights, ensuring a hassle-free and unforgettable Alaskan experience.
Alaska Homestead Adventures
Alaska Homestead Adventures offers an authentic Alaskan experience with their lodge-based Dog Sledding Tours. Situated on a bluff overlooking the Tanana River, an hour's drive and two hours' mush from Fairbanks, the homestead provides a unique escape from city life.
The tours cater to private parties of 1-4 people, tailoring experiences to fulfill guests' Alaskan dream. The days can be filled with activities such as mushing a dog team, snowshoeing on a sunny bluff, ice fishing for Burbot, crafting, wilderness skills, and more. The evenings are spent in handmade, rustic log cabins, warmed by woodstoves and home-cooked Alaskan meals. If lucky, guests may witness the magical Aurora Borealis dancing in the clear night sky.
Tours can last between 2-7 days, are family-friendly (ages 10+), and run from December 10 to March 25. The price includes food, lodging, guided activities, winter gear, and transportation. This tour promises an immersive, personal, and unforgettable Alaskan adventure.
Inukiak Lake Lodge with Friendly Arctic Adventures
Inukiak Lake Lodge offers a unique dog sledding experience in Alaska's wilderness. Here, guests can wake up to sourdough blueberry pancakes and coffee by the fire before embarking on a few hours of mushing through the surrounding lakes and valleys. The adventure continues with a soothing sauna session, dinner, and an evening of Northern Lights viewing.
Guests have the option to drive their own team of huskies or opt for a guided trip with a professional photographic guide to document the journey and offer tips on photographing the aurora. The lodge caters to all fitness levels, with introductory trips designed for beginners and more advanced expeditions covering difficult terrain and longer trails.
Located 60 miles north of the Arctic Circle and six miles from the Gates of the Arctic National Park, the lodge provides an exclusive experience for 2-6 guests at a time. With over 45 years in business, Inukiak Lake Lodge is seasoned in delivering unforgettable Alaskan adventures. Their dog sledding season runs from February 20 to April 10. All trips include fresh-cooked meals and exclusive use of all facilities and equipment.
Best Dog Mushing Schools “Drive Your Own Team”
Arctic Dog Adventure Co.
Founded by three-time Iditarod finisher, Lisbet Norris, and wildlife biologist Nils Pedersen, Arctic Dog Adventure Co. specializes in "drive your own dog team" dog sled expeditions.
Learn to drive a dog team from the oldest Siberian Husky kennel in the world.
You are not a passenger on this adventure – you are an active participant, driving your own team of 4-6 dogs on miles of gorgeous twisty trails in the hills North of Fairbanks, Alaska. Choose from half-day or full-day dog sled experiences or come for a multiday dog sled expedition into the heart of Alaska’s wilderness.
Paws for Adventure Kennel
Embark on an unforgettable adventure by learning to lead your own sled dog team! Join Paws for Adventure, where they've been sharing the art of mushing with expertise since 1998.
This thrilling escapade invites participants to learn to handle their personalized 3-5 dog team under expert guidance in a secure environment. Following comprehensive instructions and practice sessions alongside a seasoned musher, brace yourself for a spirited 6-8 mile Fun Run. Traverse meticulously groomed trails that wind through sprawling open fields and intertwining Spruce forests.
Firewalker Kennel
Firewalker Kennel offers a unique dog mushing school where guests have the exciting opportunity to mush a team of Alaskan Malamutes through the Alaskan winter wonderland. This 3-hour package includes setting up the sled, harnessing the dogs, and handling the sled under the guidance of professional mushers.
Guests will be able to enjoy the thrill of being a "Musher" while riding through the beautiful Alaskan landscapes. The tour includes several stops for taking pictures and capturing memories of this unique adventure.
Best Aurora Dog Sledding
Arctic Dog Adventure Co
Arctic Dog Adventure Co. presents the Tolovana Hotsprings Dog Sledding Tour, a winter expedition that immerses you in the breathtaking landscapes north of Fairbanks, Alaska. Journeying through the vast Alaskan wilderness, this tour offers a perfect setting for an unforgettable dog sledding experience paired with opportunities for EPIC northern lights viewing!
During the tour, participants engage in 4 days of dog sledding, guided by local experts who also provide mushing lessons. A unique highlight of this adventure is the chance to drive your own dog team, offering a hands-on encounter with this traditional mode of Alaskan travel.
One of the tour's special attractions is the opportunity to relax in the natural hot springs after a day of sledding. Additionally, from November to March, the clear Alaskan skies frequently present the awe-inspiring northern lights, adding magic to your nightly retreat.
Photography instruction is also part of the package, enabling you to capture the stunning beauty of the Alaskan wilderness and the aurora borealis.
The Tolovana Hotsprings Tour combines adventure, relaxation, and a close encounter with Alaska's spectacular winter scenery.
Sirius Sled Dog Tours
Sirius Rescue Aurora Dog Sled Tours offers a unique, intimate experience of dog sledding under the Northern Lights. As a 501.c.3 Nonprofit Sled Dog Rescue, every tour directly benefits the rescue's mission.
Designed for small groups, the tours ensure a personal and relaxed atmosphere. Sirius is located on an open ridgetop, providing an unobstructed view of the sky - perfect for Aurora viewing. Guests can enjoy the company of friendly dogs in a cozy cabin, complete with hot drinks and snacks.
Tours run from 10pm to 2am, with flexibility to adjust according to daylight savings time and the length of darkness. Kids are welcome, with special rates for those aged 5-12, while those under 5 join free with adults.
Transportation is not included but can be arranged, and a photo package add-on is available for those wishing to capture their experience professionally. The Aurora Host is also on hand to assist with camera setups for personal photography.
Last Frontier Mushing Co-op
Located just beyond Fairbanks, Last Frontier Mushing Co-op offers a tranquil setting that provides an ideal vantage point away from city lights. This serene location ensures optimal viewing of the enchanting Northern Lights. Guests can cozy up in a traditional Mongolian yurt, warmed by a wood heater, and enjoy a hot cocoa bar or soothing tea while they wait for the celestial spectacle.
The experience is further enhanced with a 30-minute dog sled adventure through Alaska's enchanting landscapes. Guided by a team of spirited canines, guests traverse picturesque trails, explore serene ponds, navigate through mysterious black spruce forests, and cross expansive fields, all under the twinkling celestial canopy.
This 2-hour comprehensive tour combines the thrill of dog sledding with the awe-inspiring beauty of the Northern Lights, providing guests with an unforgettable journey into the heart of the frozen North.
Paws for Adventure
Paws for Adventure Aurora Dog Sled Tours offers a unique moonlit dog sled ride and Aurora viewing experience. Starting at 10:15 pm from Trapper Jim's cabin, guests embark on a 20-30 minute journey, with two people per sled guided by an experienced musher. Arctic outerwear is provided, but guests should bring inner layers. The tour isn't suitable for children under 6 or those with back or leg issues. A kennel tour and cart ride are also included.
In conclusion, Alaska offers an unparalleled variety of dog sledding experiences that cater to both novices and seasoned adventurers. From awe-inspiring multi-day expeditions across sweeping snowscapes to passive and peaceful dog sled rides, there's an adventure for everyone in this winter wonderland. Overnight mushing tours provide an immersive experience, while day tours offer a taste of the sled dog lifestyle. Mushing camps offer unparalleled opportunities to learn and enhance your skills. And, if you desire a truly magical experience, aurora dog sledding lets you witness nature's most spectacular light show in a unique and exciting way. Whichever path you choose, an unforgettable journey awaits you in Alaska.
Not sure what to wear?
Check out our post on "What to wear while dog sledding in Alaska" for tips on staying warm and comfortable during your adventure.
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