Fairbanks, AK: Half Day “Drive your Own Dog Team” Tour

If you’ve ever dreamed of feeling the wind in your face while guiding a team of energetic Siberian huskies through the Alaskan wilderness, this tour promises an authentic taste of winter adventure. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary highlight what makes it stand out.

What we love most? The chance to drive your own dog team on a scenic trail, the opportunity to learn mushing skills from professional guides, and the breathtaking views of the White Mountains and boreal forest that are hard to beat. One thing to consider is that this experience requires physical engagement, so it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or expecting a luxury, passive ride.

This experience is perfect for travelers eager to actively participate in a quintessential Alaskan activity, appreciate wildlife, and capture memorable photos. It suits adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those wanting a genuine, hands-on connection with sled dogs.

Good To Know

• Hands-on mushing: Drive your own team of 4-6 Siberian huskies across 6 miles of scenic trails.
• Expert guidance: Professional, certified wilderness guides teach you how to harness and control the dogs.
• Scenic views: Expect panoramic vistas of the White Mountains and the Chatanika River Valley.
• Accessible experience: No prior mushing experience needed; gear is provided.
• Small group size: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Value: Includes warm winter gear, a 1+ hour sled ride, and plenty of photo opportunities.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This half-day adventure lasts approximately 3 hours, from arrival to departure, but the core of the experience is about 1+ hour of actual dog sledding. You’ll meet your team of Siberian huskies, learn how to harness them, and then get behind the sled for a ride across 6 miles of winding trails. The trail takes you through beautiful old-growth boreal forest, which is especially striking in winter, with snow-laden trees creating a winter wonderland.

The trail culminates at the top of a ridge, offering sweeping views of the White Mountains and the Chatanika River Valley. Our sources mention that this vantage point is a highlight, providing ample photo opportunities and a chance to take in Alaska’s vast, untouched landscape. Guides are attentive and will pause along the way to allow for pictures and to share insights into the flora, fauna, and history of the area.

Mushing Lessons & Control

One of the biggest draws is that you’re not just a passenger. Guides will give you a thorough lesson on how to drive the sled — from harnessing the dogs to slowing and stopping. This is a real, active experience, making you feel like part of the team. Multiple reviewers have noted that the guides, including those from Arctic Dog Adventure Co., are professional and patient, helping even first-timers get comfortable with the sled.

Scenic Mountain Vistas & Photo Ops

The tour emphasizes scenic mountain vistas, particularly from the ridge. Reviewers have remarked on how stunning the views are, especially when the white snow contrasts sharply with the clear blue sky or sunset. Pauses are intentionally built into the trip, so you can snap photos of the huskies, the landscape, and your team in action.

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The Huskies & Hands-on Time

The Siberian huskies are friendly, energetic, and clearly well-cared-for. You’ll have hands-on time with the dogs, which many guests find rewarding. The guides are open to questions, and you’ll likely learn tidbits about each dog’s personality and history. Several reviews mention how much they appreciated the genuine connection with these working dogs.

Practical Details & Comfort

The tour includes warm outer clothing—parkas, snow pants, boots, and mittens—so you won’t need to worry about the cold. The small group size (limited to 6) ensures everyone gets attention, and the experience is intimate. Be aware that transportation to the kennel is not included, so you should plan accordingly to arrive at the meeting point, marked by a sign reading “2270” and “Arctic Dog Adventure Co.”

What Travelers Are Saying

One reviewer praised the “scenic trip to the top of a ridge with panoramic views”, describing it as a spectacular highlight. Another mentioned how “the guides made the experience easy and fun, even for first-timers”, emphasizing their professionalism. There’s a consensus that the views are breathtaking, and the experience feels both adventurous and authentic.

A few noted that the gear provided kept them warm, but recommended layering underneath if you tend to get cold. The small group setting was also appreciated, creating a friendly, relaxed atmosphere with plenty of space for questions and photos.

Value for Money

While at $439 per person the trip might seem on the higher end, reviews suggest it offers a genuine mushing experience, personalized guidance, and access to scenic views that are hard to replicate elsewhere in such a hands-on manner. For those craving an active, memorable winter adventure, the cost is justified.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re seeking a unique, participatory outdoor activity in Alaska. It’s ideal for those who want more than a sightseeing ride and are excited about learning to mush. Travelers interested in wildlife, photography, and stunning mountain scenery will find this tour suits their interests. However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those with certain health restrictions.

The Sum Up

This Half-Day “Drive Your Own Dog Team” Tour offers a compelling blend of adventure, scenery, and authentic mushing experience. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the skill and strength of sled dogs, along with stunning photos and memories of a true Alaskan winter.

It’s best suited for travelers eager to actively participate in the sledding process, those who love nature and wildlife, and anyone wanting a genuine connection with the landscape. The stunning mountain vistas and the chance to command your own team of huskies make it a memorable highlight of any Fairbanks itinerary.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, scenic, and hands-on winter adventure, this tour fits the bill — just be prepared for a bit of physical activity and bundled-up fun.

FAQ

Is prior mushing experience necessary? No, guides provide a thorough lesson on how to harness and control the dogs before you start.

What should I wear? Warm outdoor clothing is provided, including parkas, snow pants, boots, and mittens. Layers underneath are recommended, especially if you tend to get cold.

How long is the actual dog sled ride? You will spend at least one hour actively mushing, covering approximately 6 miles of trail.

Are photographs allowed during the trip? Yes, there are plenty of opportunities for photos along the trail and at scenic viewpoints, especially the ridge with panoramic views.

What is the group size? The experience is limited to 6 participants, ensuring a personalized, hands-on experience.

Is transportation to the kennel included? No, guests need to arrange their own transportation to the meeting point, marked by a sign and parking area.

Can children participate? The tour is not suitable for children under 1 year old, and there are restrictions for certain health conditions or mobility issues.

This Fairbanks dog sledding tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to drive your own team of huskies in a stunning winter landscape, blending adventure with authentic Alaskan culture. For anyone wanting to get their hands dirty (or paws), it’s an experience worth every penny.

You can check if your dates are available here: