Dogsledding in the Heart of Alaska

If you’re dreaming of a true Alaskan experience, dogsledding in Fairbanks offers a unique blend of adventure, stunning scenery, and a chance to connect with the iconic Huskies that define this icy landscape. We’ve looked into this tour, and it’s clear that it’s a standout activity for anyone eager to try something different, especially for those with a moderate physical fitness level and a sense of adventure.

What makes this tour special? First, the expert guidance from mushers with long-distance racing experience like the Iditarod and Yukon Quest. Second, the opportunity to control your own dog team—a rare chance to try mushing firsthand. Lastly, the spectacular views of rolling hills outside Fairbanks, which add a scenic backdrop to your snowy adventure. The only caveat? It’s a 3-4 hour experience, so it requires a bit of stamina and willingness to get a little muddy and cold.

This tour is perfect for travelers who crave authentic outdoor experiences, love animals, or want a memorable story to tell about Alaska. It also suits those who enjoy learning new skills and appreciate guided experiences that prioritize safety and fun.

Good To Know

• Authentic mushing experience: You get to control your own team of energetic Huskies with guidance from seasoned mushers.
• Beautiful scenery: The tour takes you through rolling hills and trails outside Fairbanks, providing a perfect snowy wilderness backdrop.
• All necessary gear included: Overalls, mittens, and boots keep you warm, while snacks and hot drinks add comfort.
• Educational and fun: You’ll learn to harness, use commands, and assist with pushing the sled uphill—an engaging hands-on experience.
• Small group/private feel: Only your group participates, giving a more personalized and relaxed experience.
• Photographic moments: Plenty of stops for photos and dog cuddles, making it a perfect memory-maker.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Meeting Logistics

The tour departs from 1499 Old Murphy Dome Rd, Fairbanks at 8:00 am. The meeting process is straightforward, and the experience is private—just your group—allowing for personalized attention and better interaction with guides and dogs alike. The initial meeting involves getting acquainted with your team and gear, making sure everyone feels comfortable before hitting the trails.

Preparing the Dogs and Your Sled

Once at the dog yard, you’ll observe the adorable Huskies—born to run and eager to play. The guides are friendly and patient, explaining how to put on harnesses and line up the dogs. It’s quite satisfying to see the team taking shape, with four to six dogs ready to pull your sled. This prep phase is vital because it sets the tone for the rest of the adventure and teaches some basic mushing skills.

The Mushing Trek: Trails and Views

The core of the experience is mushing your own team through scenic rolling hills and snowy trails outside Fairbanks. Expect a mixture of gentle downhill stretches and challenging uphill pushes, where you’ll help by pushing the sled and giving commands like “haw” and “gee” for left and right. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights into each dog’s personality and the art of controlling the team.

According to a delighted reviewer, “Going dogsledding with Jeremy was incredible! We had a great almost three hours on the trail with our dog teams, and the whole AWA team was incredibly helpful and friendly. If you do one thing in Fairbanks, this should be it!” They also appreciated the stunning scenery, emphasizing how the trails’ views added a magical touch to the experience.

Midway Breaks and Photo Opportunities

Halfway, the sledding stops for a break—perfect for snapping photos, petting the Huskies, or just catching your breath. The guides also prepare snacks for the dogs and offer warm drinks, ensuring everyone stays comfortable despite the cold. From reviews, we know guests often find themselves captivated by the dogs’ energy and the breathtaking landscape, making these pauses well worth it.

Handling Your Team and Learning the Ropes

Throughout the ride, you’ll be actively involved—putting on harnesses, helping push the sled uphill, and giving commands. The guides are patient and experienced, making sure everyone can handle the sled confidently. This hands-on approach is what we love about this tour from more passive sightseeing options.

Ending the Tour and Reflection

The experience concludes back at the start point, leaving you with a newfound respect for mushers and their incredible Huskies. Guests often leave feeling both physically exhilarated and emotionally connected to the team of dogs that powered their sled. The photos taken along the way serve as lasting memories of a truly authentic Alaskan adventure.

Analyzing the Tour’s Value

At $445 per person, this tour might seem like a splurge, but when you consider what’s included—professional guiding, native Huskies, all gear, snacks, and photos—the value becomes clear. It’s a comprehensive experience that combines physical activity, education, and scenic beauty, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a true taste of Alaskan life.

The length—around 3 hours—strikes a good balance. It’s enough time to truly engage with the dogs and scenery without feeling rushed. Plus, the small group/private setup ensures personalized attention, which is often missing in larger tours.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Pack warm clothes, including hats, gloves, and goggles, to stay comfortable in the cold.
• Moderate physical fitness helps, as you’ll be pushing and controlling the sled.
• The tour isn’t recommended for travelers over 220 lbs, likely due to sled weight limitations.
• Remember, tipping is not included, so if you feel the guides went above and beyond, a tip is appreciated.

Final Thoughts

Dogsledding in the heart of Alaska provides a genuine, hands-on look at a beloved local tradition. It’s a chance to bond with lively Huskies, learn new skills from experienced mushers, and enjoy some of the most picturesque snowy landscapes around. The guides’ knowledge and friendliness shine through, making the experience both fun and educational.

This tour suits travelers who seek adventure, love animals, or want to experience a core part of Alaskan culture. It’s especially rewarding for those who want to do more than just observe—they want to participate actively in this exhilarating activity.

While the experience is weather-dependent and requires a bit of physical effort, most guests find it exhilarating and memorable. The opportunity to control your own team, combined with stunning scenery and expert guidance, makes this a standout activity for anyone visiting Fairbanks.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a guide, all necessary gear such as overalls, mittens, and boots, snacks, and hot drinks. Photos are also taken during the trip.

How long does the tour last?
The actual sledding adventure lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and interact with the dogs.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides teach you how to put on harnesses, control the sled, and give commands, making it accessible even for first-timers.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and goggles. The tour provides gear, but layered clothing helps you stay comfortable.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is poor?
Yes, the tour can be canceled due to bad weather, and you will be offered a different date or a full refund. Cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance.

Is tipping expected?
Tipping is not included in the price, so if you feel the guides provided exceptional service, tipping is appreciated.

What is the maximum weight allowed?
Travelers over 220 lbs may not be suitable for this experience, likely due to sled and safety considerations.

Final Words

If you’re craving an authentic Alaskan adventure, dogsledding in Fairbanks offers the perfect blend of scenery, activity, and cultural insight. With expert guides, lively Huskies, and stunning winter vistas, it’s an experience that can truly make your trip memorable. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a dog lover, or simply looking for a unique story to tell, this tour provides genuine value and an unforgettable taste of Alaska’s wilderness.