Top 7 Unforgettable Dogsled Tours in Alaska
Alaska offers some of the most thrilling dogsledding experiences in the world, combining adventure, stunning landscapes, and the chance to meet incredible sled dogs. Below, we've curated the best 7 dogsled tours from our vendor list, each providing a unique way to explore the Last Frontier.
1. Dog Sledding & Ice Fishing Combo
Experience the ultimate Alaskan winter adventure with this exceptional combo tour that pairs exhilarating dogsledding with the peaceful tradition of ice fishing. Operated by Snowhook Adventure Guides in Willow, this tour gives you the best of both worlds - the thrill of mushing behind a team of powerful huskies followed by the serene experience of drilling through thick ice to catch Arctic char, trout, or other native fish species. The contrast between these two iconic Alaskan activities creates a perfectly balanced day of adventure and relaxation.
This family-friendly dogsled and ice fishing tour is designed to accommodate both beginners and experienced outdoors enthusiasts. Knowledgeable guides provide all necessary equipment, from warm winter gear to fishing poles and bait, ensuring you're comfortable and prepared for both activities. They'll share fascinating insights about sled dog care, winter survival techniques, and local fishing traditions as you travel through the breathtaking snowy landscapes surrounding Willow, known for its pristine wilderness and excellent mushing trails.
What makes this combo tour truly special is the opportunity to experience authentic Alaskan culture in one seamless package. After your dogsled ride through snow-covered forests, you'll warm up in a cozy ice fishing hut while trying your hand at this beloved local pastime. The tour includes hot beverages and snacks, making it a perfect way to spend a winter day in Alaska whether you're traveling with family, as a couple, or with friends looking for unique winter experiences.
2. Winter Two Hour Dog Sled Ride
Immerse yourself in the timeless tradition of dog mushing with this two-hour sled ride through the spectacular winter landscapes near Cantwell. Squid Acres Kennel offers an authentic Alaskan experience that puts you right in the action, allowing you to either take an active role driving the sled or relax as a passenger while the enthusiastic husky team leads the way. The route takes you through stunning boreal forests and open tundra with panoramic views of the Alaska Range, including breathtaking glimpses of Denali on clear days.
This winter dogsled adventure stands out for its perfect balance of duration and immersion. The two-hour timeframe provides ample opportunity to connect with the dogs and experience the thrill of mushing without being too demanding for first-timers. The professional mushers at Squid Acres are passionate about sharing their knowledge of sled dog care, training techniques, and the history of dog mushing in Alaska. You'll have chances to interact with the dogs before and after your ride, learning about the unique personalities of these incredible athletes and their vital role in Alaskan culture.
What makes this tour particularly memorable is the serene beauty of the Cantwell area, which offers some of Alaska's most picturesque winter scenery without the crowds of more touristy locations. The huskies' excitement is contagious as they bark and jump in anticipation of the run, and once you're gliding silently through the snow-covered wilderness, you'll understand why dog mushing has captivated visitors to Alaska for generations. This tour is ideal for those seeking an authentic, hands-on Alaskan winter experience that showcases the deep bond between mushers and their dogs.
3. Dog Sled Adventure - Winter
Discover the magic of traditional winter dogsledding with this classic tour from Snowhook Adventure Guides in Willow, one of Alaska's most renowned mushing destinations. This experience offers the quintessential Alaskan dogsled adventure, complete with enthusiastic huskies, knowledgeable mushers, and breathtaking winter scenery. Guests can choose to actively participate in driving the sled or simply enjoy the ride bundled up in warm blankets, making it accessible for all ages and ability levels.
The tour begins with an introduction to the sled dogs, where you'll learn about their training, care, and the unique traits that make each dog special. As you set off through the snow-covered trails, your guide will share fascinating stories about Alaska's rich mushing history, including the famous Iditarod race that passes through this region. The route takes you through pristine boreal forests and across frozen lakes, offering excellent opportunities to spot local wildlife like moose, foxes, and snowshoe hares in their winter habitat.
What sets this winter dogsled tour apart is its commitment to providing an authentic yet comfortable experience. The professional guides ensure your safety and comfort while giving you a genuine taste of Alaskan mushing culture. After your ride, you'll warm up with hot drinks and have plenty of time to take photos with the dogs, creating lasting memories of your Alaskan adventure. This tour perfectly captures the spirit of winter in Alaska and is ideal for first-time visitors looking to check dogsledding off their bucket list.
4. Winter Evening Aurora Mushing Tour
Experience the magical combination of dog mushing and northern lights on this unforgettable evening tour from Squid Acres Kennel near Cantwell. As darkness falls over the Alaskan wilderness, you'll embark on a serene dogsled ride through snow-covered landscapes, with the possibility of witnessing the aurora borealis dancing overhead. The quiet beauty of mushing at night creates an almost meditative experience, broken only by the soft panting of the dogs and the swish of sled runners on snow.
This aurora dogsledding adventure offers a unique perspective on winter mushing, with special equipment provided to keep you warm during the cooler evening temperatures. Your knowledgeable guides will share fascinating insights about the science behind the northern lights while teaching you about the centuries-old tradition of dog sledding in Alaska. The tour route is carefully chosen to maximize both your mushing experience and your chances of aurora viewing, often traveling to open areas with panoramic night sky views.
What makes this experience truly special is the rare opportunity to combine two iconic Alaskan winter activities in one memorable outing. Even if the aurora doesn't appear (as nature can be unpredictable), the thrill of nighttime mushing through the silent wilderness is an experience you'll never forget. The tour includes hot beverages and snacks to warm you up afterward, along with plenty of time to interact with the friendly sled dogs who make this magical experience possible.
5. Dog Sled Adventure - Summer
Discover that dog sledding isn't just a winter activity with this innovative summer tour from Snowhook Adventure Guides in Willow. Instead of snow, specially designed wheeled carts allow the energetic sled dogs to pull you through lush Alaskan landscapes during the midnight sun season. This unique experience gives visitors a chance to enjoy dog mushing year-round while learning how mushers train their teams during the off-season.
Your summer dogsled adventure begins with an introduction to the kennel and its canine athletes, where you'll learn about the careful breeding, training, and care that goes into maintaining a competitive sled dog team. As you glide through wildflower-filled meadows and along forest trails, your guide will explain how modern mushers adapt traditional techniques for summer training. The wheeled cart provides a surprisingly smooth ride, and the dogs' enthusiasm is just as strong as it is during winter runs.
This tour offers a perfect family-friendly Alaskan summer activity that combines education, adventure, and adorable dogs. Visitors of all ages will enjoy meeting the friendly huskies and learning about their incredible athletic abilities. The summer setting provides excellent photo opportunities with the dogs against the backdrop of Alaska's stunning landscapes, making this a great choice for travelers looking for unique experiences during the warmer months. It's also a fascinating look at how mushers prepare their teams for winter racing seasons.
6. Overnight Mushing Adventure
Live like a true Alaskan musher during this immersive overnight experience with Dew Claw Kennel near Fairbanks. This in-depth adventure goes far beyond typical dogsled tours, offering participants the chance to fully immerse themselves in the daily life of a working sled dog kennel. From hands-on dog care to wilderness mushing techniques, you'll gain a deep appreciation for what it takes to maintain a competitive sled dog team.
Your authentic mushing immersion begins with learning how to harness and hook up dogs before heading out on an extended trail run through the stunning Alaskan wilderness. After returning to the kennel, you'll participate in feeding and caring for the dogs, learning about their specialized nutrition and healthcare needs. As evening falls, you'll settle into a cozy cabin or wall tent, where you can relax and swap stories with your guides about Alaska's rich mushing history and the legendary Iditarod race.
What makes this overnight dog sledding experience truly special is the rare opportunity to form genuine connections with both the dogs and the mushers who dedicate their lives to this challenging sport. Waking up to the sounds of excited huskies ready for another day of running is an experience you'll never forget. This tour is perfect for serious dog lovers and those interested in going beyond surface-level tourism to understand the real heart of Alaska's mushing culture. The small group size ensures personalized attention and plenty of hands-on experiences.
7. Wild Adventure Yukon Full Day Excursion
Embark on the ultimate Alaskan adventure with this action-packed full-day tour from Skagway that combines dogsledding with breathtaking Yukon scenery. This comprehensive excursion takes you from the historic gold rush town of Skagway into the majestic wilderness of Canada's Yukon Territory, featuring multiple stops at iconic locations including Caribou Crossing and Emerald Lake. The highlight is your visit to a professional sled dog kennel, where you'll meet husky puppies and learn about summer training techniques.
Your Yukon dogsled and wilderness tour begins with a scenic drive along the famous Klondike Highway, following the route taken by gold rush stampeders over a century ago. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories about the area's history while pointing out wildlife and spectacular viewpoints. At Caribou Crossing, you'll enjoy a delicious lunch before meeting sled dogs and their mushers, learning how these amazing animals are trained during the summer months using specially designed wheeled rigs.
This premium Skagway shore excursion offers exceptional value by combining multiple bucket-list Alaskan experiences into one seamless day trip. In addition to the dogsled demonstration, you'll have opportunities to see wildlife exhibits, visit a museum, and marvel at the stunning turquoise waters of Emerald Lake. The tour is perfectly paced to allow plenty of time at each stop while ensuring you return to your cruise ship with unforgettable memories of Alaska's wild beauty and its beloved sled dogs. It's an ideal choice for visitors wanting to maximize their time in port with a diverse range of authentic Alaskan experiences.
Choosing Your Perfect Dogsled Adventure
Each of these seven tours offers unique ways to experience Alaska's sled dog culture:
For winter purists: The Classic Winter Adventure or Ice Fishing Combo in Willow
For unique experiences: Evening Aurora Tour or Summer Cart Ride
For immersion seekers: Overnight Mushing Experience
For cruise visitors: Yukon Wilderness Tour from Skagway
For families: Summer Cart Ride or Ice Fishing Combo
No matter which you choose, you'll gain deep appreciation for Alaska's living mushing traditions and the incredible athleticism of sled dogs. These professional operations prioritize animal welfare while creating unforgettable guest experiences.
Pro Tip: Book early, especially for winter tours, as these popular experiences often sell out quickly during peak seasons. Many operators offer discounts for early reservations or group bookings.