Summer Sled Dog Kennel Tour

If you’re looking to get a genuine taste of Alaska’s sled dog culture without the winter chill, the Summer Sled Dog Kennel Tour offered by Susitna Sled Dog Adventures is a fantastic choice. This one-hour experience gives visitors a rare opportunity to interact with the energetic huskies, learn about their role in sled racing, and enjoy some dog therapy—no snow required.

What makes this tour stand out? We love that it combines interactive fun with educational insights, providing a well-rounded experience for dog lovers, curious travelers, and even families (excluding very young children). The personal stories from guides, the chance to see puppies, and the relaxed atmosphere really add to its appeal.

A potential consideration? Since transportation isn’t included, you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a slower-paced, authentic experience that’s both fun and informative.

If you’re eager to meet some of Alaska’s most famous animals in a friendly setting, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

Good To Know

• Interactive experience: Play with the dogs and observe them in their natural, relaxed environment.
• Educational insights: Learn about sled dog racing, daily life, and what it takes to be an Alaska sled dog.
• Family-friendly (with exceptions): Not recommended for young children under 2 due to the active nature of the dogs.
• Authentic stories: Guides share personal adventures and tidbits about the dogs’ personalities.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund and reserve now, pay later options.
• Location: A 2-mile drive from Talkeetna, with clear directions to a wooden fence and yellow gate for easy access.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Close Look at the Sled Dog Kennel Tour Experience

What’s Included and What to Expect

For $75 per person, you get a full hour of interaction with the huskies, guided by knowledgeable staff. The tour starts at the Susitna Sled Dog Adventures kennel located at 17930 Montana Creek Rd, about two miles down Montana Creek. The meeting point is straightforward—look for a wooden fence and a yellow gate, making it easy to find even if you’re not familiar with the area.

Once there, you’ll be greeted by a lively pack of sled dogs. The hosts are passionate and eager to share their stories, giving visitors an inside look at the dogs’ personalities and daily routines. The dogs are free to run and play in the yard, which allows you to see their natural energy and social behavior.

One of the tour’s highlights is dressing a dog in a harness and showing you the sled and winter gear, which helps you visualize their working life. If there are puppies around, you’ll likely get a chance to cuddle the next generation of sled dogs—a genuine highlight for animal lovers.

The Personal Touch from Guides

Guests frequently mention how guides like Emma and Henry bring the experience alive with their engaging stories and genuine love for the dogs. Their insights into sled racing and the dogs’ training routines add depth, making the visit more than just a playground. Expect to hear tales of trail adventures, race wins, and funny dog antics, which help deepen your appreciation for these incredible animals.

Playtime and Learning

The yard is designed for fun—dogs run and jump, and visitors are encouraged to interact freely. You might find yourself laughing as huskies leap up for a pat or chasing after a ball. After some play, they’ll show you how a harness is fitted and explain the gear used during winter expeditions.

If puppies are available, cuddling them becomes a sweet, tactile moment that many guests cherish. This blend of play and education makes the tour ideal for those wanting a hands-on experience with Alaska’s iconic sled dogs.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Why the Price Reflects Value

While $75 might seem a modest fee, it covers the entire personalized experience—guided insights, plenty of interaction, and a relaxed environment. Guests have noted that they’ve left feeling more connected to the dogs and understanding their role in Alaskan culture. The inclusion of bottled water is a small but appreciated touch, keeping visitors refreshed.

Practical Considerations

Keep in mind that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own trip to the kennel. The tour lasts about an hour, which fits nicely into a day of sightseeing. It’s available in both the morning and afternoon, providing flexibility.

Since the dogs are active and excited, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 2, and small children may find the lively environment a bit overwhelming. Also, the dogs will be running around and jumping up, so expect some physical interaction and be prepared for a lively atmosphere.

Who This Tour is Perfect For

This experience is ideal if you want a close-up encounter with sled dogs in a relaxed, friendly setting. It’s perfect for dog lovers, families with children over 2 who enjoy outdoor activities, and anyone interested in learning about the unique role of huskies in Alaska. It’s also great for those seeking a dog therapy session—a chance to bond with these affectionate animals.

If you’re after a more active, high-energy sledding experience or prefer indoor attractions, this tour may not be the best fit. But if you enjoy authentic, hands-on encounters and want to understand what makes sled dogs special, this tour delivers.

The Sum Up

The Summer Sled Dog Kennel Tour offers a authentic, engaging, and educational experience that highlights the spirit of Alaska’s sled dogs. With guides who are passionate and knowledgeable, you’ll gain insights that go beyond the usual tourist fare. It’s a fantastic way to connect with animals that are central to Alaskan culture, all in a relaxed, family-friendly environment.

While it’s not a sledding adventure itself, the tour provides a meaningful glimpse into the world of sled dogs, making it a memorable addition to any Alaska itinerary. The relatively modest price reflects the quality and intimacy of the experience, ensuring you get genuine value for your time and money.

This tour is best suited for dog enthusiasts, families with older children, and travelers seeking a laid-back, meaningful encounter with Alaska’s huskies. If you’re looking for an authentic, heartwarming experience that combines education, fun, and a touch of dog therapy, this kennel visit should definitely be on your list.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour price?
No, transportation is not included. You will need to arrange your own way to the kennel, which is located 2 miles down Montana Creek from Talkeetna.

How long is the tour?
The kennel visit lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a manageable activity that can fit into a day of sightseeing.

Is the tour suitable for small children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 2 years old, mainly because dogs will be running around and jumping up, which may be overwhelming for very young kids.

What should I wear?
While the tour is in summer, expect some outdoor activity. Casual, comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended. No special gear is needed, as the hosts will show you winter gear used in sledding.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking also offers the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.

What language is the tour guided in?
The tour is conducted in English, with guides sharing stories and insights throughout the visit.

Embark on this charming journey and get to know Alaska’s sled dogs—an experience that’s both heartwarming and educational, perfect for animal lovers and curious travelers alike.

You can check if your dates are available here: