Dog sledding is more than just a fun ride. It is a special adventure that helps you feel Alaska’s true spirit. For many people, riding behind a team of strong huskies through the snow is a dream come true. This guide will help you decide if you want a private dog sled tour or a group dog sled tour for your next trip.
Why does it matter? Because both tours are great, but they are very different. Knowing how they work will help you pick what fits your budget, time, and travel style.
If you are new to dog sledding, check out our First-Timer’s Guide to Dog Sledding. It explains what to expect, what to wear, and how to prepare.
What Makes Dog Sledding in Alaska So Special?
Alaska has deep snow, tall mountains, and wide open land. The cold air is fresh, and the sky is big and bright. People have used dog teams to travel here for hundreds of years. They carried food, mail, and medicine through snowstorms. Today, mushers (dog sled drivers) still train teams for races like the Iditarod, which is a long, famous dog sled race that covers about 1,000 miles.
When you go on a sled ride, you help keep this old way of life alive. You learn about the dogs, the gear, and the wild land. Some tours even let you drive the sled yourself. If that sounds fun, don’t miss our Drive a Dog Sled Experience.
ABout Private Dog Sled Tours
A private dog sled tour is made just for you. You can bring your family, partner, or a small group of friends. Many couples pick private tours for birthdays, honeymoons, or special photos. A private tour costs more, but you get special time with the dogs and musher.
How Private Tours Work
When you book a private sled ride, you have more control. You pick:
- When to start (early morning, afternoon, or sunset).
- How long you ride (short trail or full-day run).
- Where to stop for pictures.
- How much time you spend with the dogs.
Some private tours include a cozy stay in a cabin. You might sit by a campfire, watch the northern lights, and drink hot cocoa with your guide. If you want to see the aurora, look for tours in Fairbanks. Fairbanks is famous for clear skies and bright lights.
What You Do on a Private Tour
Private rides let you do more than just sit on the sled. You might:
- Help harness the dogs.
- Feed them snacks.
- Learn dog commands.
- Try standing up and driving the sled.
- Take as many photos as you like.
Many people love the silence of the woods. There is no loud crowd or waiting in line. Just you, the dogs, the snow, and the musher’s stories.
Where Can You Take a Private Tour?
Many places in Alaska offer private sledding:
- Denali National Park: Big open land, wild animals, and long trails. Some tours last two or three days and include camping.
- Fairbanks: Good for seeing the northern lights. You can stay overnight in a cabin.
- Talkeetna: Great for glacier rides or meeting champion mushers like Dallas Seavey.
- Remote lodges: Some tours take you by snowmobile or plane to far-away cabins.
Top Tips for Booking Private Tours
Tip 1: Book early. Many private tours fill up 6–8 weeks in advance, especially in winter.
Tip 2: Ask if winter clothes, boots, or goggles are included. Many companies lend gear, but not all.
Tip 3: If you want photos, tell your musher. Some tours include free photo packages or hire a pro.
Tip 4: If you want to mush your own sled, ask first. Not every guide allows beginners to drive alone.
What Is a Group Dog Sled Tour?
A group dog sled tour is for people who want to share the fun with others. Many guests ride together on the same trail. Some sit together on one sled, while others ride in a line with several sleds.
Group rides are popular because they cost less than private tours. This makes them great for families, cruise visitors, or people traveling alone who want to meet new friends.
How Do Group Tours Work?
Group rides have set times and trails. You usually:
- Meet at a starting spot like a lodge or trailhead.
- Listen to a short lesson about dog sledding.
- Watch the musher get the dogs ready.
- Ride for about 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Take photos at special stops.
- Warm up with hot drinks when you finish.
Your guide talks about the sled dogs and how mushers train them. You may even see a quick demo on how to hook up the sled. But there is less time for deep questions than in a private tour.
Who Should Pick a Group Tour?
A group tour is a smart choice if you:
- Want to save money.
- Have young kids who just want a short ride.
- Are on a cruise and have only a few hours.
- Like meeting other travelers.
- Do not need a custom trail or private guide.
Some schools or student groups book these tours for fun field trips. Families love them because kids get to see real sled dogs up close without a long, tiring trip.
Where to Find Good Group Tours
Group rides are offered in many easy-to-reach places:
Anchorage
Anchorage is Alaska’s biggest city. It’s easy to fly in and out. Many tours pick you up at your hotel. You can book a short day ride and be back in town for lunch.
Fairbanks
In Fairbanks, you can ride with other guests at night and maybe see the northern lights. Many tour companies work with big winter festivals.
Seward and Girdwood
Near the coast, towns like Seward and Girdwood have summer group rides. These rides use special carts with wheels instead of sleds. It’s a fun way to see the dogs in warm weather.
What to Expect in a Group Tour
Many first-time guests ask: Will I still see the real Alaska? The answer is yes! Group tours still offer amazing snow trails, great photos, and happy dogs. The main difference is:
- Trails are shorter and easier.
- There is less private time with the musher.
- You may wait in line if there are many guests.
But this also means it is safer for kids and beginners. You can relax and enjoy the ride!
How Much Does a Group Tour Cost?
Group tours are the cheapest way to go dog sledding. Prices start around $75 to $200 per person, depending on the place and ride time. Many tours give discounts for kids or large families.
Some tours add extras like:
- Free hot cocoa.
- A group photo.
- Short meet-and-greet with the dogs.
- A musher talk about the Iditarod, Alaska’s big race.
Tips for Booking a Group Ride
- Book Early: Some group rides sell out fast during holidays.
- Check Pickup: Ask if they pick you up from your hotel or cruise port.
- Wear Warm Clothes: Even short rides feel cold in Alaska’s winter.
- Bring a Camera: Many stops have amazing mountain views.
If you want to see what to pack, check our Sledding Gear Checklist.
Private vs. Group Dog Sled Tours: What’s the Difference?
Now that you know what private and group sled tours are, let’s compare them side by side. This helps you choose what fits your trip best.
Here is an easy chart to help you:
| What You Want | Private Tour | Group Tour |
| Price | Higher. Best for special trips. | Lower. Good for families or students. |
| Privacy | Just you and the musher. | Share with other guests. |
| Time | Flexible. Long or short. | Set time. Usually short. |
| Interaction | Hands-on. Feed dogs, drive sled. | Quick meet and greet. |
| Photos | Custom stops for pictures. | Group photo spots only. |
| Comfort | Quiet. Remote trails. | Popular trails. More people. |
| Booking | Book early. Limited spots. | Many slots, easy to book. |
Tip: If you want to learn more about caring for sled dogs, check our Training & Care page.
How to Decide: Key Questions
When picking your sled adventure, ask yourself:
1. What’s My Budget?
- Private tours can cost $300–$1,000+ for each person.
- Group tours are $75–$200 per person.
If you want to keep costs low, pick a group ride. If you’re celebrating or want extra photos, go private.
2. How Long Do I Want to Ride?
- Private tours can last all day or even overnight.
- Group rides are shorter — most are 1 to 2 hours.
3. How Much Do I Want to Do?
Private tours let you drive the sled, feed dogs, or learn commands. Group rides are more about sitting and riding.
4. Where Am I Staying?
Some private tours happen in wild places. You may need extra travel, like a small plane or snowmobile. Group rides often start near towns like Anchorage, Fairbanks, or cruise docks.
5. What Time of Year Is Best?
Most snow sled tours run November to March. In summer, some places use carts on wheels. If you visit in warm months, check our Summer Cart Rides to see where to go.
If you’re still unsure, our guide on Choosing the Right Dog Sled Tour for Your Style can help you compare options based on your travel goals
Where to Go: Alaska’s Best Sledding Spots
Denali and Alaska Range
- Huge open snowfields.
- Good for long rides and overnight trips.
- Best for private tours and skilled riders.
Fairbanks and Interior
- Long winters and clear nights.
- Great for seeing the northern lights.
- Both group and private tours run here.
Anchorage and Southcentral
- Easy to reach.
- Many day rides and budget group tours.
- Good for quick visits or first-time riders.
Why Location Matters
Each place is unique. Denali is wild and remote. Anchorage is busy and easy to reach. Coastal towns have short tours, perfect for cruise visitors. Fairbanks mixes sledding with night sky watching.
No matter where you go, you’ll meet friendly dogs and mushers who love to share their stories.
Bundle Tours with Other Activities
Some sled tours include:
- Aurora viewing at night.
- Hot springs in Fairbanks.
- Glacier flights in summer.
- Cabin stays in Denali.
Want more ideas? Check out our Plan Your Visit section. It has tips on where to stay and what to pack.
What to Pack for Dog Sledding
Many visitors worry about being cold. But with the right gear, you will stay warm and comfy on the trail.
Here’s a quick checklist:
- Warm jacket: A thick winter coat is best.
- Snow pants: Dry legs are happy legs!
- Warm hat: A wool hat or beanie that covers your ears.
- Gloves or mittens: Bring two pairs if you have them.
- Warm boots: Waterproof boots with good grip.
- Wool socks: Cotton gets wet and cold fast.
- Scarf or neck warmer: Keeps the wind off your face.
- Goggles or sunglasses: Snow can be bright!
Tip: Some companies lend gear like parkas and boots. Ask when you book. For a full list, see our Sledding Gear Checklist.
What Else Should I Bring?
Besides warm clothes, pack:
- Camera or phone: You’ll want photos of the dogs and the views.
- Hand warmers: Put them in gloves or boots.
- Snacks: Some rides are long. Bring an energy bar.
- Water bottle: Staying hydrated helps in cold weather.
- Small backpack: Keeps your stuff safe on the sled.
Before You Go: Safety Tips
Safety is a big part of sled dog tours. Good companies use trained dogs and mushers with years of practice.
What makes a safe sled tour?
- Small group sizes.
- Trails checked for snow and weather.
- Dogs in good health and rested.
- Guides who know the area well.
Always listen to your musher. They will tell you how to sit, when to stand, and what to do if you want to try driving the sled.
How We Keep Dogs Happy
Many guests ask: Do the dogs like pulling sleds?
Yes! These dogs are born to run. They love cold weather and moving as a team. Good kennels treat them like family. They get:
- Rest days.
- Vet check-ups.
- Warm places to sleep.
- Good food and water.
- Hugs, belly rubs, and play time!
To learn how we care for our dogs, visit Meet the Dogs and Dog Training & Care.
When Should You Book Your Tour?
Winter tours are popular! Many travelers come to Alaska in December, January, or February. If you want the best trail and the best time slot:
- Book early: 6–8 weeks ahead for private tours.
- Check the weather: Some days may be too cold or windy.
- Ask about refunds: Many tours let you move dates if storms come in.
What Happens if It’s Too Cold?
Sled dogs love the cold, but people don’t always agree! Most tours run at -20°F or warmer. If it drops too low, some mushers cancel for safety.
If your ride is canceled, you can pick a new date or get your money back. Always check the company’s weather rules when you book.
Plan Ahead for Kids
Kids love sled dogs. But they can get cold fast. Bring extra socks and mittens for them. Short rides are best for kids under 8. Many group tours have cozy cabins or lodges to warm up after the ride.
Add More Fun to Your Day
Did you know you can do more than just sledding? Many guests add these extras:
- Snowshoeing: Hike in deep snow with big shoes on your boots.
- Hot springs: Soak in warm pools under the stars.
- Northern lights viewing: Watch the sky dance in green and purple.
- Photo tours: Learn how to take winter shots like a pro.
Meet the Mushers: The Heart of Every Tour
Behind every sled ride is a person called a musher. A musher drives the sled and cares for the dogs. Many mushers in Alaska grew up around sled dogs. Some come from families who have raced in the Iditarod, which is the longest sled dog race in the world.
When you book a tour, you are not just buying a ride — you are meeting real people who live with these dogs year-round. They know every dog by name, age, and favorite treat.
What Mushers Do Every Day
A musher’s job does not stop when the snow melts. All year, they:
- Train the dogs with runs in the woods.
- Feed the team healthy meals.
- Check paws, fur, and teeth for problems.
- Fix sleds, harnesses, and gear.
- Teach new puppies how to run with the older dogs.
When you visit, ask your guide how they train the dogs. Many love to share stories about life on the trail. For more about how mushers work, check our Mushing Philosophy.
Caring for Dogs the Right Way
Good kennels put dogs first. Some visitors worry about animal safety. Here’s what to know:
- The dogs are born to run. They have thick fur and strong hearts.
- They run in short bursts. After a ride, they rest, eat, and sleep.
- Tours rotate dogs. No dog runs too much.
- Vets check the dogs often.
If you want to see who pulls your sled, meet our husky team on Meet the Dogs.
Dog Sledding and Alaska’s Native Traditions
Long before dog sledding was a sport, it was a way to survive in the wild. Many Alaska Native groups used dog teams to carry supplies in winter.
Today, tours help keep this part of Alaska’s story alive. Some mushers share tales passed down through families. You may hear how sleds helped deliver medicine in old villages or how mushers read the weather by looking at snow and sky.
How Sled Dog Tours Protect Nature
Modern sled tours respect nature. Many companies:
- Use safe, low-impact trails.
- Pick up waste and leave no trash behind.
- Teach guests about local animals like moose or foxes.
- Support small towns and family-run kennels.
When you choose a trusted operator, your money helps care for the dogs and keep Alaska wild for the next riders.
What Guests Say
Many first-timers say dog sledding is the best part of their Alaska trip. Here are a few things guests often say:
“The dogs were so happy. You could see how much they love to run.”
“Our musher shared stories about the Iditarod and his family. It made the ride feel real.”
“I loved helping hook up the dogs and learning commands.”
Your adventure can be like this too!
Quick Facts Before You Book
- Best time for snow tours: November–March.
- Best time for summer rides: May–September.
- Age limit: Some tours welcome kids as young as 3. Ask when you book.
- Health tips: Tell your guide if you have back problems or need extra help.
Need help picking dates? Visit Plan Your Visit.
What Makes Our Tours Special
When you book with us, you get:
- Happy, healthy dogs.
- Friendly mushers who love to teach.
- Safe trails and clear safety steps.
- Cozy gear to stay warm.
- Memories you’ll never forget.
Want to drive a sled? Book our Drive a Dog Sled Experience and feel what mushers feel every day!
Wrap-Up
Thanks for reading our full guide. We hope you feel ready, warm, and excited to book your ride. Remember, the dogs are waiting — come feel the rush of the trail, the crunch of the snow, and the joy of Alaska’s most loyal team.