Dog sledding is one of Alaska’s best adventures. It mixes nature, teamwork, and old traditions. You ride with strong sled dogs and mushers who know the land well. A musher is the person who drives the dog sled. Many mushers have raced in the Iditarod, which is a famous long-distance dog sled race in Alaska.
Dog sled tours are open in winter and summer. You can ride across snow, dirt trails, or even on a glacier. This means everyone can find a tour that fits them best. Next, we’ll see which one you might like most.
Winter Dog Sled Tours: The Classic Alaskan Ride
What Makes Winter Tours Special
Winter sledding is the best-known Alaska experience. These tours run from November to April. Most start in places like Talkeetna, Anchorage, or near Denali. When you join, you get warm clothes and clear safety tips from your musher.
You sit on a strong sled pulled by happy huskies. Some tours are short loops. Others last for hours or even overnight. On long trips, you can sleep in a cozy cabin and listen to stories by a warm fire.
Because of this, winter tours book up fast. It’s smart to plan early, so you don’t miss out.
Want the full winter experience? Check our Winter Dog Sled Tours and pick your perfect ride.
Summer Cart Tours: Mushing Without Snow
How It Works
Alaska is not just cold. From May to September, you can try dryland mushing. This means riding a sled on wheels, also called a cart tour.
Before the ride, you meet the dogs. Guides help you pet and learn about them. Then, you hop on the cart. The dogs pull you through green forests or paths near glaciers.
These tours are good for all ages. They are easy and fun for cruise ship travelers or families with small kids.
Packing for Summer Rides
You do not need thick coats for summer. But dress smart:
- Closed-toe shoes
- Bug spray for forests
- Sunblock and sunglasses
- Light jacket in case of wind
Plan your warm-season ride on our Summer Cart Tours page
Glacier Mushing: The Best of Both Worlds
What Is Glacier Mushing?
Glacier mushing is special. You ride a helicopter up to a glacier — a huge frozen river of ice. There, mushers and dogs wait for you at a small camp. You get snow boots and warm gear.
Next, you ride across bright white snow under the summer sun. This mixes summer weather with the thrill of snow sledding.
Why People Love Glacier Tours
These tours feel remote and wild. People love taking photos of the ice and the dogs at work. Many tours include free photos and cozy gear.
You can find glacier mushing near:
- Juneau Icefield
- Punchbowl Glacier near Girdwood
- Mendenhall Glacier tours with helicopter pick-up
Because of this, glacier rides are more pricey than normal rides. But they create lifetime memories.
Family Dog Sled Tours: Fun for All Ages
Why Families Love Sledding
Dog sled tours are great for families. They mix safe adventure, learning, and pure fun. Kids can ride in a sled pulled by happy huskies. Parents can relax and take pictures. Many tours offer special sleds that fit adults and kids together.
Families get short, slow loops so everyone stays cozy and safe. Mushers share simple lessons about how the sled works and how the dogs listen to commands like “Gee!” (turn right) and “Haw!” (turn left).
What Else to Expect
Family tours often include more than just the ride. Some places have small shops to buy sled gear or gifts. Some even have cozy cafes for warm drinks or snacks. This means the adventure can be a full-day trip.
For example, Alaska Dog Center has dog sled rides, a gear store, and a café. Kids love meeting the dogs up close.
Drive-Your-Own-Sled Adventures
Be a Musher for a Day
Some guests want more than just to sit. They want to drive their own sled. Many tour guides offer special trips called interactive mushing tours. This means you get to steer your own sled with help from an expert musher.
Before you start, the musher teaches you the basics. You learn how to steer, brake, and talk to the dogs. This lesson is fun and easy to follow.
After training, you stand behind your team and guide them on a short trail. Don’t worry — the guide rides along to help if needed.
Ready to steer? Drive a Dog Sled and be a musher for a day.
Who Should Try This?
This experience is best for teens and adults. It works well if you like being active and want to learn new skills. It also makes great memories for photos and stories.
Travelers say they love the chance to become a musher, even just for one ride. It’s also a top pick for adventure lovers and bloggers who want unique photos
Romantic and Private Dog Sled Rides
Perfect for Couples
Some people want dog sledding to feel more private. Many tours offer special packages for couples. These rides focus on quiet moments and pretty views.
For example, you can choose a sunset sled ride. Some tours include hot cocoa or champagne by a glacier. Couples use these tours for honeymoons, proposals, or anniversary surprises.
What Makes Private Tours Special
Private rides are smaller than group trips. You get more time with your musher and dogs. Some packages include a pro photographer to take sweet photos while you ride.
Many top mushers near Talkeetna and Girdwood have these options. If you want a memory that feels extra special, ask about a private tour when you book.
Meet the Heart of the Team: The Dogs
Why Sled Dogs Matter
Sled dogs are more than pets. They are true working athletes. They need good care, smart training, and lots of love. A good sled dog loves to run and pull. They work best in teams and listen well to the musher’s voice.
How Dogs Stay Healthy
Top tour companies care for their dogs every day. They follow healthy feeding plans. Dogs get rest days to stay strong. They also train year-round. In summer, they run short dryland routes to keep fit.
Mushers know each dog’s role in the team:
- Lead dog: Runs in front and listens for commands.
- Swing dog: Helps turn the team left or right.
- Wheel dog: Runs closest to the sled and pulls the heaviest part.
Meet, Greet, and Snap Photos
Before your tour, you often get time to meet the dogs. Guides tell you each dog’s name, breed, and favorite snack. Some places even have a “Dog of the Month” to show which pup worked extra hard.
Many visitors say this part is the best. It helps you feel close to the dogs and the mushers. You can take photos to share with family and friends.
Want to meet these happy huskies? Meet the Dogs and see their stories before your ride
How to Plan Your Dog Sled Adventure
Why Good Planning Matters
A great dog sled tour starts with good planning. Alaska’s weather changes fast. Trails can be deep with snow in winter or muddy in early spring. Picking the right gear and checking trail updates helps you stay warm, safe, and happy.
Next, let’s see what to pack and how to stay ready.
What to Pack for Winter Sledding
If you plan to ride in winter, dress in layers. The weather can be very cold, but running dogs keep the ride exciting. You want to stay dry and warm the whole time.
Winter gear list:
- Wool or synthetic base layers
- Thick winter jacket
- Warm boots with good grip
- Gloves, hat, and scarf
- Snow goggles or sunglasses for bright days
Some tour companies give you extra boots and warm suits. Always ask before you come.
What to Bring for Summer Cart Tours
Summer rides are easier to pack for. Still, Alaska weather can change quickly.
Summer gear list:
- Light jacket or rain shell
- Closed-toe hiking shoes
- Sun hat or sunglasses
- Sunscreen and bug spray
- Water bottle for warm days
Need a simple list? Use our Sledding Gear Checklist so you stay warm and cozy
If you plan a glacier mushing trip in summer, bring an extra warm layer. Glaciers stay cold, even in sunshine.
How to Check Trail and Weather Conditions
Trail Tips
Alaska’s sledding trails change by region. Winter trails near Denali, Fairbanks, or Talkeetna run over forests and frozen lakes. Summer routes near Skagway or Juneau roll through meadows and old mining paths.
Before you ride, check the snow and weather reports. Many companies post updates on their website or by email. You can also look at the NOAA Alaska Forecast for the latest snow depth and wind chill.
Common Questions Answered
Is Dog Sledding Safe?
Yes! Dog sled tours are safe when you follow your musher’s instructions. The dogs know their jobs and love to run. Kids can ride on special sleds with parents. New mushers get short lessons to learn commands.
Do the Dogs Like Running?
Yes! Alaskan sled dogs are born to run. They are trained from pups and stay strong all year. Visitors often say the dogs look excited and happy when the guide says “Ready!”
Can I Drive a Sled Myself?
Yes — if you want to try driving your own sled, book an interactive mushing tour. Guides teach you everything step by step. Teens and adults love this fun challenge.
Best Time of Year to Go?
- Winter: November–April for snowy rides.
- Summer: May–September for dryland carts and glacier tours.
- Glacier mushing: Summer and early fall for a snow experience with warm sun.
How to Book Your Tour
Now you know how dog sledding works. You know the seasons, what to pack, and which adventure fits your family or trip style.
Ready to ride? Here’s what to do next:
- Pick your favorite tour.
- Check weather and trail updates.
- Book early — winter slots fill fast!
- Pack your gear and camera.
- Meet your dogs, mush your sled, and make memories.