What It's Actually Like to Go Dogsledding in Alaska

Dogsledding is one of those Alaska experiences that's hard to fully understand until you've done it yourself.  You might picture gliding across the snow with mountain views all around you, but there's a lot more to it than the ride itself.  From the dogs' excitement when it's time to run to conversations with the people who care for them, here's what our team has learned from experiencing dogsledding in Alaska firsthand.

The Dogs Are Very Excited to Do Their Job

​One of the first things you'll notice at a sled dog camp is the noise.  Hundreds of dogs barking at once can be a little overwhelming when you first arrive, but there's a reason for all that excitement.  The dogs recognize the arrival of a bus or helicopter and know that a run may be coming soon.

Seeing their enthusiasm firsthand was one of the biggest surprises fo rour team.  These dogs are eager to get moving, and it's easy to see how much they enjoy the opportunity to run.

Despite all the barking and excitement, the dogs are trained to work as a team and are focused when it's time to pull the sled.  They may not approach you looking for pets or attention, so don't expect every dog to act like a family pet.  As one of our team members put it, even as a cat person, that was something to appreciate!

What the Dogsled Ride Is Really Like

The ride itself often feels shorter than you want it to be.  Whether you're gliding across a snowy glacier or traveling along forest trails, there's something special about experiencing Alaska from behind a team of sled dogs.  Our team has tried both snow-based dogsledding and summer mushing on forest trails.  Both are fun ways to experience the sport, but if you have the opportunity to dogsled on snow, that's the favorite.

Our team has tried both snow-based dogsledding and summer mushing on forest trails.  Both are fun ways to experience the sport, but if you have the opportunity to dogsled on snow, that's the favorite.

Some glacier tours even include a helicopter ride to reach the sled dog camp.  Arriving by helicopter offers incredible views, and you may spot the dogs getting excited as they hear it approach.  They seem to know that the helicopter means it's almost time to run.  

One thing to keep in mind is that your time on the sled may be limited.  On glacier tours, you'll want to take in the scenery, enjoy the ride, and appreciate the experience while it lasts.  As much as you might wish for more time on the glacier, the opportunity to interact with the dogs and see this environement firsthand makes the experience worthwhile.

Getting to Know the Mushers Is Part of the Experience

For some of our team members, one of the best parts of dogsledding isn't the ride at all. It's the chance to talk with the mushers.

Mushing is a unique lifestyle that requires a tremendous amount of time and commitment. The mushers we've met have been enthusiastic about sharing what their lives are like, how they care for their dogs, and what it takes to work with a sled dog team.

These conversations offer a different perspective on the experience. You're not just taking a ride; you're learning about a tradition and a way of life that remains an important part of Alaska's history and culture.

If you're curious, ask questions! The time spent talking with the people behind the sled can be just as memorable as the ride itself.

Why Do the Dogs Take Breaks During the Ride?

Depending on the conditions, you may notice your musher pausing during the ride to give the dogs a chance to rest. This is especially important during warmer weather, when active sled dogs can overheat.

These breaks are part of looking after the team and making sure the dogs can work safely. They also give you a chance to take photos and enjoy your surroundings before continuing.

Dogsledding tours can look a little different depending on the season and location. Winter tours typically travel over snow, while summer experiences may use wheeled carts or sleds on dirt trails. Glacier tours offer another option, with some operating on snow and ice even during the summer months.

When choosing a tour, pay attention to the type of experience offered so you know what to expect.

Is Dogsledding in Alaska Worth It?

For our team, absolutely. The ride itself is exciting, but the experience goes beyond a few minutes on a sled. You get to see the dogs' enthusiasm firsthand, learn from the mushers, and experience a part of Alaska that many visitors never get to see up close.

If dogsledding is on your Alaska bucket list, consider the season, the setting, and the type of ride you'd most enjoy. Whether you're traveling across a snowy glacier or exploring forest trails in summer, it's a memorable way to connect with Alaska's sled dog culture.