Dog sledding is one of the best winter adventures you can try in Alaska. For hundreds of years, strong dogs pulled sleds through deep snow and icy trails. People used dog teams to bring food, mail, and medicine to far-away towns. Today, dog sledding is still alive — but now it’s also a fun activity for families and visitors.
When you ride with a sled dog team, you see snowy forests, frozen rivers, and sometimes wild animals like moose or foxes. Some people even see the northern lights, which are green and purple lights that dance in the sky on cold nights.
If you want to plan your own trip, this guide will help you understand how dog sledding works, how to stay safe, and how to choose the best tour for you. You can even book your sled tour right now to start your adventure.
What Is Dog Sledding?
Dog sledding means riding on a sled that slides on snow while dogs pull you forward. The sled has runners on the bottom, like skis. The musher is the person who stands on the back of the sled. The musher gives commands to the dogs. The dogs listen and follow the trail.
The dogs wear harnesses. They are tied to the sled by strong ropes called ganglines. These ropes connect each dog in order. The lead dogs go in front, then swing dogs, then team dogs, and the wheel dogs closest to the sled. Each dog knows its job and works together with the others.
This way of travel is old but very smart. Long ago, snowmobiles did not exist. People in cold places needed sled dogs to survive. The Iditarod is a big race today, but it started because mushers saved lives by carrying medicine to Nome in 1925. Now, thousands of visitors come to Alaska to see how dog sledding works and feel what it’s like to be part of this story.
Why Alaska Is the Best Place for Sled Dogs
Alaska is huge and covered in snow for many months. In winter, there are few roads in the backcountry. That makes dog sledding very real and special here. If you dream of seeing frozen rivers, snowy woods, or tall mountains, a dog sled is a fun way to do it.
Also, Alaska is home to the best mushers in the world. Many families have trained dogs for generations. Towns like Fairbanks, Denali, and Talkeetna have kennels where mushers care for big teams of dogs. You can visit these kennels, learn how dogs live, and even help feed or brush them. Many mushers love to share stories and teach visitors how to mush.
Sometimes you might hear barking when you arrive. The dogs bark because they are excited to run. Running is what they love best! When they hear the sled being pulled out, they jump, wag their tails, and wait to be harnessed.
If you want to see our dogs, visit the Meet the Dogs page to learn about their names, jobs, and stories.
A Short History of Dog Sledding
Sled dogs have helped people survive in the Arctic for thousands of years. Native people like the Inuit, Athabaskan, and Chukchi trained dogs to pull sleds across long distances. These early mushers used dog teams to hunt seals and bring food home.
One famous event is the serum run to Nome. In 1925, a town called Nome had a bad sickness called diphtheria. The town needed medicine fast, but snow blocked trains and planes. So, mushers and more than 150 dogs carried the medicine over 600 miles in freezing wind. The lead dogs were heroes — Balto and Togo are two names many people know.
Because of this, the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race was created. Every March, mushers and dogs race 1,000 miles from Anchorage to Nome. It honors that life-saving run and shows how tough mushers and dogs are. You can learn more about this story on our mushing history page.
What Kind of Dog Sled Tours Can You Try?
Not all tours are the same. You can pick short, easy rides or big, long trips. Here are more details so you know what to expect:
Short Intro Rides
These are perfect if you are trying dog sledding for the first time. You sit in a cozy sled with blankets. The musher stands behind you. The ride lasts 30–60 minutes. You get to see the snowy woods and feel the dogs pull. It’s like being part of an old Alaska story.
Some kennels let you help hook up the dogs. You can pet the friendlier dogs and take pictures. Families with kids love these tours because they are safe and fun.
Half-Day or Full-Day Trips
These rides are longer, usually 3 to 6 hours. On these trips, you can learn simple commands. For example, “Hike!” means “go.” “Gee” means “turn right” and “Haw” means “turn left.” The musher may teach you how to balance on the sled and help steer.
You may stop for snacks and warm drinks along the trail. Mushers often share stories about the dogs and local wildlife too.
Overnight Adventures
Want to feel like a real musher? Try a two-day or three-day tour. You travel far into the woods, stay in a warm cabin or tent, and eat simple camp meals. Some mushers teach guests how to feed the dogs, lay straw beds, and check paws. You might see the northern lights at night.
Summer Cart Tours
When the snow melts, sled dogs still need to run! So mushers train their teams with wheeled carts. You sit on a sturdy cart while the dogs pull you along dirt trails. These tours are fun from May to September. They help the dogs stay fit all year.
See our summer tours to plan your warm-weather mushing.
Meet the Dogs: The Heart of Every Sled
No dogs, no sled. The dogs are the true champions. Most sled dogs are Alaskan Huskies. They are a mix of different working breeds and are bred for speed and strength. Siberian Huskies have beautiful eyes and thick fur. Alaskan Malamutes are bigger and stronger. They help haul heavy loads.
Each dog on the team has a job. Let’s see what they do:
- Lead Dogs: These dogs are smart. They listen for commands and help the team go the right way.
- Swing Dogs: These dogs run behind the lead dogs. They help turn the sled.
- Team Dogs: These dogs make up the main power group. They keep the sled moving steady.
- Wheel Dogs: These are the biggest and strongest. They are closest to the sled and help it start and stop.
Mushers know each dog well. They watch how dogs feel. If a dog is tired, it rests. If a dog is strong and happy, it gets to lead.
How Sled Dogs Live and Train
Our dogs love to run, but they also love to rest and play. Puppies start training at just a few months old. They play with other dogs to learn teamwork. They hear the sled commands every day. When they grow older, they join short practice runs.
Dogs eat a lot of food, like meat, fish oil, and kibble. They need thousands of calories each day in winter. Mushers check paws every day. If snow is sharp, they put soft booties on the dogs’ feet. They also check for ice between toes.
Many guests like to see the kennel, brush the dogs, or help feed them. This makes the visit special. Want to see more? Read about how we train and care for our sled dogs.
What to Bring for Your Sledding Trip
You will be warm and safe if you dress the right way. Your musher will give you a big parka (coat), boots, and mittens. Still, wear:
- Warm base layers (like long underwear)
- Wool socks
- A hat that covers your ears
- A scarf or neck warmer
- Snow pants if you have them
- Sunglasses or snow goggles
- A small bag for snacks and your phone
Snow can be bright, so sunglasses help your eyes. Cold air can hurt your skin, so cover up well.
Stay Safe on the Trail
Dog sledding is safe when you follow the rules. Remember:
- Listen to your musher at all times.
- Keep hands and feet inside the sled.
- Hold on tight if the trail is bumpy.
- Do not pet dogs without asking.
- Tell your guide if you get too cold.
Mushers care about your safety and the dogs’ safety too. That’s why they choose trails that match the weather and snow.
What to Pack: Your Complete Sledding Gear List
One of the most important parts of dog sledding is staying warm. Alaska winters can be very cold, especially when you ride fast through the wind. Good mushers give you some gear, like parkas and big boots. But you should also bring your own warm layers to stay comfortable.
Here’s a simple checklist to help you pack:
- Thermal underwear: Wear a top and bottom layer close to your skin.
- Wool socks: Bring extra pairs in case one gets wet.
- Snow pants: These keep snow off your legs.
- Warm hat: Pick one that covers your ears.
- Neck warmer or scarf: Protects your neck and face from wind.
- Gloves or mittens: Mittens are warmer than gloves.
- Sunglasses or snow goggles: Snow can be bright when the sun shines.
- Small backpack: Good for snacks, water, or a phone.
- Camera or phone: Bring a power bank because cold drains batteries fast.
Also, wear sturdy winter boots if your tour does not provide them. Some mushers give you warm over-boots for free.
Need a complete packing guide? Use our Sledding Gear Checklist to stay warm and trail-ready.
What a Day on the Trail Looks Like
Many first-timers ask: What happens on my sledding day? Here’s an example:
Arrival: You meet your musher and the dogs. The dogs bark because they know it’s time to run. Your guide shows you the sled and explains safety.
Meet the Dogs: You help hook up the team. Many mushers tell you the dogs’ names and what jobs they do — lead, swing, team, or wheel. You can pet them if the musher says it’s okay.
The Ride: You get on the sled, wrap up in warm blankets, and hold on tight. The musher shouts “Hike!” and the dogs take off. The sled glides through snow, and you feel the cold wind and see snow-covered trees. Sometimes you stop for photos.
Breaks: On longer tours, you stop at a cabin or fire pit. Drink hot chocolate, eat snacks, and talk to your guide about mushing life.
The Finish: Back at the kennel, help feed the dogs or take more photos. Many guests say this is their favorite part — the dogs love the praise and belly rubs!
Can Kids Go Dog Sledding?
Yes! Dog sledding is great for families. Many mushers offer short, safe rides for kids as young as 3 or 4. Young kids ride in the sled while parents sit behind them or stand with the musher.
Always tell your guide about kids in advance so they can pick the best tour. Bring extra warm clothes for little ones — kids get cold faster than adults.
Local Tips to Make It Special
Here are some local tips from mushers and happy guests:
- Book early: Popular rides fill up fast in winter.
- Arrive early: This gives you time to meet the dogs and learn about the sled.
- Tip your guide: Tips are always appreciated. Many mushers work long days caring for dogs year-round.
- Buy a keepsake: Many kennels sell hats or shirts. It’s a nice way to remember your adventure.
- Ask questions: Mushers love to share stories. Ask how the dogs train or what food they eat.
Respect the Land and the Dogs
When you visit a sled dog kennel, you join a tradition that is old and special. Be kind to the dogs and mushers. Listen to your guide’s rules. Keep trails clean. Take only photos, leave only footprints!
Dog sledding is fun because people, dogs, and nature work together.
Sample Sledding Day Itinerary
Here’s an example of a perfect day if you plan your Alaska sledding adventure:
| Time | Activity |
| 8:00 AM | Dress in warm layers and check your gear. |
| 9:00 AM | Arrive at the kennel. Meet your guide and dogs. |
| 9:30 AM | Learn commands and how to sit safely. |
| 10:00 AM | Start your sled ride! Watch for moose or foxes. |
| 12:00 PM | Stop for snacks and warm drinks. Take photos. |
| 1:00 PM | Finish your ride. Feed the dogs treats if allowed. |
| 1:30 PM | Buy a souvenir hat or shirt. |
| 2:00 PM | Head back to your cabin or next Alaska stop. |
Final Tips Before You Book
Alaska has many good tour companies. Pick one that shows they care for the dogs. Read reviews and check websites like Travel Alaska. If you want to support local families, book with mushers who live in Alaska all year.
Want to feel the thrill of mushing? Check out our Winter Dog Sled Tours.
Ready to plan? Visit our Adventures page and see all the tours we offer. Whether you want a short ride, an overnight trip, or a summer cart tour, there’s a sled adventure for you.
Have more questions? Check our Plan Your Visit section or contact us to ask.