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Seward Dog Mushing & Gold Panning Adventure

Excursion Overview

Experience Alaska: Dog Mushing Thrills and Gold Panning

Step into Alaska’s living history on this immersive combo adventure that blends the spirit of dog mushing with the timeless allure of gold panning. The journey begins at Turning Heads Kennel, where the eager energy of the dogs sets the tone for the day. Guests climb aboard a dog cart for a scenic ride through forested trails, then stroll the kennel grounds to meet the dogs up close, puppies included. Along the way, guides share stories of the Iditarod and the grit, teamwork, and tradition behind Alaska’s most iconic race.

From the world of mushing, the experience shifts to the era of prospectors and pioneers. Just steps away, beside Clear Creek, guests try their hand at gold panning in a sheltered, rustic setup designed for comfort in all weather. Guides demonstrate classic panning techniques while bringing Alaska’s gold rush history to life. Every bag of paydirt is seeded with real gold flakes and semi-precious gems, so everyone leaves with a tangible keepsake and a deeper connection to Alaska’s adventurous past.

This tour is typically available from May through September. Our excursions were designed for cruise ship passengers but are available to everyone.

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:

  • Complimentary shuttle service is available within the Seward city area
  • 20-minute dog cart ride
  • Guided kennel tour where you can meet husky puppies
  • A guided, hands-on gold panning experience that immerses guests in the history and techniques of Alaska’s gold rush

Requirements:

  • Minimum of 2 required to book
  • Participants must be at least 10 years old, and all children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Signed liability waiver
  • This rain-or-shine tour is best enjoyed in comfortable clothing and closed-toed shoes. Guests may want a rain jacket or outerwear they don’t mind getting a little messy for full dog interactions. Covered areas and a sheltered dog cart help keep everyone comfortable, even in wet weather.

Duration: Approximately 3.5 hours (From local tour provider's office in Seward)

  • 8:15 AM: Shuttle pickup (if requested)
  • 15 minutes – check-in at the kennel, where the guide introduces the team and gives a brief orientation on how guests can safely meet and interact with the dogs
  • 1.5 hours – visiting the dog kennel and dog mushing
  • 15 minutes – shuttle transportation to gold panning site (5 minute ride)
  • 1.5 hours – gold panning activity
  • 12:00 PM: End of tour/Shuttle drop-off (if requested)

Meeting Instructions:

  • This tour departs from 31722 Herman Leirer Rd, Seward, AK 99664. Courtesy shuttles are provided from the Seward city area. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

  • This tour is not wheelchair or limited mobility accessible.

    • Fully Wheelchair Accessible: No
    • Limited Mobility Accessible: No
    • Stroller Accessible: No
    • Collapsible Wheelchair & Stroller Storage Available: No

Refund Policy:

  • You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
  • Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Guests should wear comfortable clothing and closed-toed shoes or boots, as the dogs can be playful in the kennel area. A rain jacket or other outerwear that can get a little messy is recommended for those who want the full dog interaction experience, even if it isn’t raining. Avoid wearing anything you don’t want to get a bit dirty.

For a worry-free day, we highly recommend storing your luggage at your hotel or the Seward Train Depot before embarking on the tour. We also recommend seeing if your cruise line can transfer your bags directly to your hotel or the Train Depot for you. We can hold your luggage, but only during the time of the tour.

The minimum age to participate is 10 years old.

Wildlife is abundant in Alaska and sightings are possible on any tour. However, this is not a designated wildlife tour and nothing can be guaranteed.

The gold panning activity is held beneath a tarp-covered log structure with rustic water troughs, providing shelter from wind and rain. Participants remain dry and do not need to enter the creek.

Yes. Under the supervision of your guides, we invite you to pet and play with our dogs as they love human interaction.

Tours operate rain or shine, and the dogs enjoy running even in wet weather. The gear demonstration and puppy interactions take place under a covered area, sometimes warmed by a fire. The dog cart is also covered to ensure a comfortable ride.

Yes. A portable toilet is available at the facility.

 

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$134.00

Best Price Guarantee!

$134.00

Duration: 3.5 hours

Best Price Guarantee!

Duration: 3.5 hours



Minimum of 2 Required to Book

Adult (18+): $134.00

Child (10-17): $90.00

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