Experience one of Alaska’s most celebrated traditions, with culture, sport, and history intricately woven into the sport of dog sledding. From the famous annual Iditarod race and intense training, for what it takes to be a musher, dog sledding in Alaska has long been integral to life here.
Racing through the pristine wilds of Alaska is a must-do while visiting the state. Check off your bucket list in some of these amazing places to go dog sledding in Alaska.
History & Culture of Dog Sledding
Musher’s Camp, Juneau
Astonishingly, dog sledding is believed to have originated in Siberia some 9,500 years ago; it seems that since the very beginning, man and dog have worked together in the icy Northern Hemisphere.
As European explorers began to visit places like Alaska in the 18th century, they observed that the local Inuit were using dogs to pull sleds as their principal means of transport.
The Europeans were quick adopters, and sled dogs were used to transport fur, whale oil, ivory, and even missionaries. Sled dogs played an essential role in the Klondike Gold Rush, as they were much better adapted to the icy conditions than horses and mules. They were also integral to the quests of European explorers to reach the North Pole.
Sled dogs earned their place in history in 1925, when the city of Nome, Alaska suffered a terrible diphtheria outbreak. A team of 20 mushers and their dogs raced against time on the treacherous Iditarod Trail, which was then a trading route, covering 674 miles with supplies of life-saving serum and saving an entire community.
Dog sledding in Alaska
Using dogs and sleds fell into decline with the advent of snowmobiles and aviation. So the Iditarod race from Anchorage to Nome, taking place every March, was conceived as a way to preserve dog mushing.
It was first held in its current form in 1973, partly recreating the extreme journeys across the frozen wilderness taken by those 20 mushers and their dogs. It’s one of many endurance dog sled races, the Yukon Quest and Finnmarkslopet in Norway being two more famous events. Dog mushing today, the state sport, is an essential part of Alaska’s culture.
Alaskan Huskies
Alaskan Huskies
Whichever kennel you visit, don’t be surprised if all the dogs don’t look the same. Technically, there’s no recognized breed called “Alaskan husky”; it’s actually a generic term for a sled dog.
Interestingly, the dogs you see pulling sleds today share all major parts of their genome with the first sled dog ever known on Zhokhov Island in Siberia, a canine believed to have pulled a rudimentary sled 9,500 years ago.
These hardy Alaskan animals are bred and selected for their athleticism, speed, endurance, and intelligence. Your sled dog team could include mixed breeds containing Siberian husky, Alaskan malamute, greyhound, saluki, or German pointer.
Alaskan Huskies
What all Alaskan sled dogs have in common is a thick double coat, big paws for racing over the snow, and a sociable, competitive, and biddable nature.
Alaskan huskies can withstand extreme cold; they can sleep outside in -40°F if they need to. They’re extremely strong; they can run at 12 mph, pulling heavy loads for hours.
The dogs eat an enormous amount; a husky racing the Iditarod will consume 10,000 to 12,000 calories of high-performance dog food a day.
How to Plan a Dog Sledding Ride
Alaskan Huskies
Decide what kind of dog sledding experience you want. Do you want to ride on snow, in which case you will have to account for a helicopter tour, or on a summer sled with wheels? Do you want to drive the sled yourself, or would you rather sit back and enjoy the Alaskan wilderness?
Research the places you might go dog sledding and manage your expectations. Most make it clear whether you can drive yourself or whether you will need to stay behind the musher. Check whether your ride will be a training run along forest trails or a more leisurely trot around a circuit.
Denali National Park
You should be aware that the majority of dog sledding experiences in Alaska are soft adventures rather than an extreme sport. They’re also relatively short; you will be out on the sled for around 30 minutes in summer, as the dogs can overheat.
The rest of the time is spent greeting the dogs, watching them being harnessed up, taking photos, and learning about the life of mushers and sled dogs.
Make sure you dress appropriately. You should dress for the Alaskan weather, which means layers and waterproofs, as well as closed-toe shoes. Tours will go out in the rain; in fact, sled dogs prefer to run in the rain as it keeps them cooler. Extreme heat, floods, and forest fires are usually the only reasons a tour would be canceled.
Tour Types
Dog Sledding on a Glacier
Dog sledding in Alaska
The most prestigious dog sled experience in Alaska is sledding on a glacier. This means you get the full experience of driving over snow and ice—and you can only get there by helicopter, which is a huge thrill in itself.
Some of the breeding and racing kennels move to a safe spot on Alaska’s glaciers for the summer season, like on the Mendenhall Glacier near Juneau or the Punchbowl Glacier near Alyeska. Mushing dogs amid this magnificent, icy scenery, surrounded by towering peaks, is a thrill like no other.
Dog Sledding on a Trail
Trailbreaker Kennel, Fairbanks
The most popular option during the summer months, and the most realistic if you’re traveling as a family and want something affordable, is summer dog sledding. A variety of vehicles is used for this, from motorized ATVs to wheeled sleds.
This is still a thrilling experience; the dogs work just as hard, pulling a wheeled sled, and enjoy themselves just as much. Another advantage of sledding on a trail is that the less mobile can be accommodated; if you’re a wheelchair user, you can be assisted in getting into the sled.
Kennel Tours
Husky Homestead, Denali National Park
If you want to meet Alaskan huskies and learn about the lives of mushers and their dogs but don’t particularly want to drive a sled, opt for a kennel tour.
You’ll get to meet and pet the dogs, learn about their care, and hear from the experts about dog sled racing and the part it plays in Alaskan culture.
Husky Hikes
Skagway
This is a wonderfully gentle option for a husky encounter. You’ll walk along wilderness trails with mushers and breeders, accompanied by a variety of dogs, and have a chance to quiz the owners personally about their lives, dog breeding, and racing.
Where to Go Dog Sledding in Alaska
Seavey Homestead, Seward
Dog sledding in Alaska
Venture to Seward for one of the most well-loved dog sledding tours, run by Mitch Seavey, a renowned Iditarod champion. In fact, his father was one of the early organizers, and his son has set impressive records.
This family-run operation spans three generations and gives visitors a well-rounded and unforgettable dog sledding experience. Meet the stars with paws as you tour the racing kennels, getting a glimpse into their daily routine.
Be regaled with enthralling stories from the sled trails that weave through Alaska’s unforgiving and frozen tundras, as you explore along a two-mile ride, led by a team of champion huskies.
Seavey Homestead, Seward
Marvel at the scenery, a mix of mountains, lush forest, and canyons as you glide along a well-trodden path on a sled with wheels.
The shorter rides at Seavey are ideal for anybody who is less confident or has mobility issues; the sleds are padded, the ride is smooth, and there’s no weight limit. While the sleds aren’t wheelchair accessible, the crew will assist wheelchair users from their chair into their seat.
Or kick things up a notch with an exciting helicopter ride that will drop you on a glacier for your dog sledding ride. This is the perfect experience for the more adventurous.
A visit to Seavey Homestead is one of the best things to do in Seward.
Paws For Adventure, Fairbanks
Dog sledding in Alaska
Get up close with the pups at Paws for Adventure in the northern city of Fairbanks.
This kennel offers exciting tours in a beautiful backcountry setting. You’ll be pulled in an ATV by a team of dogs and have a chance to interact with the furry athletes, including their adorable puppies.
In addition to dog sled rides through the stunning scenery, Paws for Adventure offers mushing school. During this three-hour session, you’ll learn to harness and drive your own team of three to five dogs. It does require a certain level of fitness—and good balance.
Dog Sled World, Mendenhall Glacier, Juneau
Mendenhall Glacier, Juneau
Hop aboard an exhilarating helicopter ride where you’ll land on Juneau’s Mendenhall Glacier for the ultimate dog sled experience.
During the flight, you’ll soar over the Tongass Rainforest and get a unique perspective from above the stunning glacier, inching its way toward the sea.
Mendenhall Glacier, Juneau
Visit Dog Sled World, an authentic dog sled camp, and meet the huskies that will lead your ride. Slide on special glacier boots and prepare for your thrilling dog sled experience.
Glide along the massive glacier, absorbing the pristine scenery that Alaska is known for, including dramatic peaks and vibrant shades of blue in the cracks of the ice sheet. It will be hard to believe your eyes as you race along the vast glacier surrounded by sheer beauty.
Try your hand at assisting the musher with driving the sled, or just sit back and enjoy the ride from the comfort of the cozy perch. Meet the future athletes; adorable puppies who will be just as excited to greet you as you are to them.
Make memories of a lifetime with the dog sledding team on top of the famed Alaskan landmark, Mendenhall Glacier.
Sled Dog and Musher’s Camp, Skagway
Sled Dog and Musher’s Camp, Skagway
Experience one of the state’s most authentic dog sled camps in the southeastern Alaskan city of Skagway.
At the summer training camp, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the sport from Iditarod mushers with first-hand experience, as well as embark on a thrilling sled ride, powered by huskies.
Meet and even cuddle some of the cute puppies, enjoy the awe-inspiring mountain-top scenery, and listen to stories about the grueling races that span over 1,000 miles.
Dyea, Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
The tour is rich with history as well, taking place in an old Gold Rush town. Imagine what Skagway must have been like during the Gold Rush era; a vibrant center buzzing with hope.
After a drive through Skagway, you’ll head to Dyea, where the camp is based. You’ll be driven up a private mountain road in a custom-made Unimog—a 4×4 with giant tires—to meet your husky team.
As you zip in a six-person, wheeled sled, pulled by a team of 14 to 16 eager dogs through the verdant Tongass National Forest, it’ll be hard to believe that this Alaskan adventure is real life. Enjoy views of the Dyea tidal flats, wildflowers, and soaring mountain peaks dusted with snow.
Keep an eye out for wildlife such as bears and eagles, too.
Husky Homestead, Denali National Park
Husky Homestead, Denali National Park
Learn about the sport of dog sledding just outside the state’s most famous destination, Denali National Park. Run by four-time Iditarod champion Jeff King, Husky Homestead is a premier tour operator and immersive training camp experience.
Jeff hosts this once-in-a-lifetime Alaskan experience within the natural splendor of the national park. Tour the racing kennels, getting a glimpse of what goes into training the dogs.
Interact with the stars of the future, the young husky puppies, and learn about the fundamentals of racing as well as the keys to being successful.
Husky Homestead, Denali National Park
During summer, you can play with the puppies as they learn to socialize, watch some of the training exercises, and be regaled by enthralling stories from the trail by the experienced mushers. Note that this is a kennel tour, not a sled ride.
Trailbreaker Kennel, Fairbanks
Trailbreaker Kennel, Fairbanks
Visit one of the longest operating kennels in Alaska, situated on the idyllic banks of the Chena River in Fairbanks. The family-owned and operated kennel was started by the champion racing couple, Susan Butcher and David Monson.
Throughout their years racing, the pair have collectively represented four Iditarod wins as well as the Yukon Quest title. The Trailbreaker Kennel was opened in 1976 to educate visitors on the importance of dog sledding in the Alaskan Interior, as well as the lives of mushers and huskies.
Tour the kennel and learn about the history of the sport, how the professional mushers prepare for races, as well as enjoy the opportunity to watch the excited dogs participate in one of their training runs.
Come to Alaska in September and October, and you can experience the thrill of a ride in a five-passenger wheeled rig, speeding along wild Alaskan trails.
Musher’s Camp, Juneau
Musher’s Camp, Juneau
Glide through the lush Tongass National Forest in Juneau on a six-person dog sled with wheels in the summer season. Enjoy the stunning scenery of one of the most beautiful places in Alaska as you venture through the towering spruce and hemlock trees with your team of 16 powerful huskies.
Learn the commands and balance of mushing as you try to navigate the one-mile-long trail with the aid of a professional.
After, mingle with the friendly dogs and expert mushers, while listening to the riveting stories from racing. An educational presentation is also offered, where you can learn about the history and unforgiving nature of the famed Iditarod race that takes place every March.
Musher’s camp combines the best of dog sledding with first-hand experience and informational opportunities.
AK Sled Dog Tours, Talkeetna
Experience the excitement behind mushing your own dog sled team in Talkeetna, Alaska at an Iditarod champion’s kennel. AK Sled Dog Tours offers both summer and winter dog sled experiences, with “dryland mushing” in the warmer months.
This is a great option if you want to drive the sled yourself. You’ll be out on the trail for 45 minutes, which is a truly immersive experience.
Alternatively, it’s possible to get a taste of the winter mushing experience atop a glacier during the summer, with a helicopter transfer to a nearby snowfield.
Iditarod Trail, Talkeetna
One of the best things to do in Talkeetna is to learn how to mush in the dry rigs while riding through the rugged Alaskan landscape or through the birch forest surrounded by glistening snow, where you’ll also have the chance to stop at a real Iditarod checkpoint.
In addition to professional instruction and first-hand experience, you’ll hear stories from the Iditarod race, and enjoy interaction with the racing dogs and brand new puppies, potentially the next champions.
After, take photos of the gorgeous dogs to capture memories of your time spent enjoying Alaska’s state sport.
Girdwood Summer Sled Dog Adventure
Chugach Mountain
Situated just outside the city of Anchorage, Girdwood Summer Sled Dog Adventure gives you the chance to experience a portion of the actual Iditarod trail.
Run by legendary Ryan Redington, grandson of the Iditarod co-founder, Joe Redington Sr., his entire family has been an integral part of the sport. This traditional dog sled experience is one of the best and is located near Anchorage, making it easily accessible if you’re short on time.
This Alaskan adventure begins by venturing to the trail in an exciting off-road vehicle, where the scenery will astound. Meet the skilled mushers and amazing dogs before heading out on your summer dog sled cart ride through the Chugach National Forest.
Learn dog-handling techniques, mushing commands, and hear stories from the trail. After, head to the famous “puppy pavilion” where you can snuggle up to future furry stars.
Black Spruce Dog Sledding, Fairbanks
Enjoy an interactive dog sledding experience in Fairbanks, Alaska run by a well-known Iditarod musher, Jeff Deeter.
Open year-round, Black Spruce Dog Sledding offers a hands-on tour. You’ll harness the dogs and learn about mushing as you speed across the tundra on a specially built summer sled. This motorized vehicle helps the dogs when they’re towing uphill.
Listen to stories from the long-distance races, mingle with the dogs, and get a behind-the-scenes look at training and life at the kennel.
The Alaska Dogstead Mushing Company, near Anchorage
Visit the 160-acre homestead, home to champion sled dogs led by “Team Petit” and amazing tours with the Alaska and Chugach mountain ranges as a backdrop. Located approximately an hour from Anchorage, the Alaska Dogstead Mushing Company is known to be a premier kennel with excellent, interactive tours.
Spend time with the dogs and enjoy a memorable ride through the backcountry terrain with an experienced Iditarod musher, on his home terrain. Rides range between one and three miles long, although you’ll get the best experience on the longer journey.
Snowhook Adventure Guides of Alaska, near Anchorage
Alaskan Huskies
Snowhook offers two-hour experiences throughout the summer months. Sled through the wilderness, pulled by a team of enthusiastic dogs in training for the winter racing season.
You’ll ride in an eight-passenger vehicle that’s custom-built for summer sledding. There’s a chance to meet and bond with the retired huskies and learn how the running dogs are harnessed.
The kennel is run by AJ and Rebecca Savidis and is home to some 40 dogs, ranging from puppies to rescues and racing champions. AJ has six Iditarod finishes to his name and has some wonderful stories to tell.
Turning Heads Kennel, Seward
Dog sledding in Alaska
Family-run Turning Heads has a base in Seward and a summer camp up on Godwin Glacier, offering glacier dog sledding.
You’ll be flown up to the glacier by helicopter, a thrilling, 15-minute ride past icy peaks and cascading waterfalls, the blue-white ice of the glacier beneath you.
Next, there’s a 25-minute sled ride driven by a musher across the snow and ice. The flight back down takes you through a glacier-filled valley with more opportunities for spectacular photos.
If you opt for the summer sled ride down in the valley, you’ll have a chance to meet the dogs at the kennel and cuddle the season’s new puppies, an important part of socializing them. Next, there’s a 20-minute ride along wilderness trails.
These summer rides are proper training exercises for the dogs, who will take up to 18 different commands during the excursion, rather than the more sedate run around a track that some kennels offer.
Dog Sledding FAQs
Is going dog sledding in Alaska worth it?
Fairbanks
If you love dogs, the great outdoors, and want to know more about the culture of Alaska, dog sledding is absolutely worth it. The whole experience of meeting the dogs and witnessing their enthusiasm for racing is wonderful.
When is the best time of year to go dog sledding?
Fairbanks
The peak season for dog sledding and racing is winter, when snow is thick on the ground, but there’s summer sledding all over Alaska, too. You’ll drive a sled with wheels, rather than runners, and race along forest trails. These excursions operate all the way into October, weather permitting.
If you want the winter experience but are traveling in summer, choose a helicopter tour and experience dog sledding on a glacier, which is the ultimate thrill.
What should I wear?
Dog sledding in Alaska
For dog sledding in the forest in summer, you’ll need long pants, breathable layers, a light waterproof jacket, and closed-toe shoes. You could get wet and muddy, and the dogs may jump up on you with muddy paws in a friendly greeting.
If you’re sledding on a glacier, bring warmer clothes and a fleece. You’ll need waterproof jackets, too. Overboots are provided by most kennels, but if you have especially big feet or chunky walking boots, these may not fit.
Pack a pair of gloves, as your hands can get cold while gripping the sled. Wherever you’re sledding, polarized sunglasses and a high-factor sunblock are essentials, as the sun reflects off the snow and can be very strong.
Do I get to drive the sled myself?
Dog sledding in Alaska
Some operations allow you to drive the sled yourself, but not all. If this is important to you, do your research before booking. There may be a chance to book a longer, more immersive tour that includes driving.
Can you go dog sledding during the summer?
Denali National Park
Yes, there are summer dog sledding opportunities all over Alaska on wheeled sleds that can be pulled along wilderness trails. In several places, it’s also possible to go dog sledding on a glacier.
Can kids go dog sledding?
Husky Homestead, Denali National Park
Most kennels welcome kids, but with a few caveats. While kids love meeting the dogs and cuddling puppies, there can be a fair bit of standing around, so make sure they’re warmly dressed. Kids will also need the attention span to listen to talks on dog mushing and racing. Usually, the chance to cuddle adorable puppies more than compensates for this.
How long are dog sledding tours?
Dog sledding in Alaska
Most dog sledding tours are a couple of hours to half a day, but this includes getting to the kennel, meeting the dogs, listening to the mushers talk about dog sledding, taking photos, and a short ride.
The actual sledding segment of most tours is 30 to 60 minutes. During summer in Alaska, when it’s hotter, dogs are asked to work for shorter times so they don’t overheat.
Is dog sledding in Alaska ethical?
Alaskan Huskies
The vast majority of kennel owners are highly ethical. They love their dogs, know them all by name, and ensure that they receive five-star care.
Don’t be upset if you see the dogs living outside, tied to their kennels; this is normal. Huskies sleep outside in winter, too, protected by their double layer of fur.
They’re working dogs, bred for the cold and bred to run, not as domestic pets. Each dog is tethered to its kennel to prevent fights breaking out or individuals taking off into the wilderness.
Are dog sledding tours safe?
Alaskan Huskies
Yes, dog sledding tours are safe. Of course, there’s always an element of risk with an activity involving animals and wheels, or runners, and you will be asked to sign a waiver before participating. However, kennel owners are responsible people who are concerned with the welfare of their dogs and the experience of their guests.
Husky Homestead
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