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Alaska’s rich dog mushing history is deeply rooted in its culture, transportation, and sporting traditions. Even after the snow melts, summer dog sledding tours offer visitors the chance to experience the thrill of mushing while exploring Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular options:

Glacier Dog Sledding: A Bucket-List Adventure

Glacier dog sledding combines the excitement of mushing with the awe-inspiring beauty of Alaska’s snow-covered glaciers. This unforgettable experience is perfect for those seeking adventure in one of Earth’s most stunning natural settings.

What is Glacier Dog Sledding?

This unique experience begins with a helicopter flight to a remote glacier. On arrival, visitors meet a team of sled dogs and their mushers, then embark on a sled ride across the pristine snow.

What to Expect on a Glacier Dog Sledding Tour:

• Scenic Helicopter Ride: Enjoy breathtaking views of Alaska’s rugged wilderness, glaciers, and peaks from above.
• Meet the Dogs and Mushers: Learn about sled dog training, care, and the history of dog mushing.
• Hands-On Mushing: Depending on sled design you can simulate what it is like to drive the team under the musher’s guidance.
• Incredible Scenery: Surrounded by field of snow and towering peaks, the setting is nothing short of magical.

Why Choose Glacier Dog Sledding?

• Summer Snow Adventure: Experience a winter wonderland in the middle of summer.
• Iconic Tradition: Connect with Alaska’s mushing heritage and its incredible canine athletes.
• Unparalleled Beauty: Explore some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Glacier Dog Sledding Tips:

• Dress in warm layers—even in summer, glaciers are cold.
• Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
• Book early, as these tours are highly popular.
• Bring sunglasses and wear sunscreen.

Wheeled Cart Dog Sledding: Mushing Without the Snow

Wheeled cart dog sledding is the perfect solution for those visiting during snow-free months. This warm-weather alternative offers all the excitement of mushing, but with sled dogs pulling specially designed carts on scenic trails.

What to Expect on a Wheeled Cart Dog Sled Tour:

• Meet the Dogs: Get to know the energetic sled dogs, often with opportunities to pet and interact with them.
• Ride in the Cart: Enjoy a thrilling ride behind a team of sled dogs as they pull a sturdy, comfortable cart.
• Scenic Trails: Explore Alaska’s natural beauty on dirt or gravel paths through forests and open landscapes.
• Learn from Mushers: Gain insights into sled dog training and care during the off-season.

Why Choose Wheeled Cart Dog Sledding?

• Accessible year-round for visitors outside the winter season.
• Family-friendly and suitable for all ages.
• Offers a closer connection with the dogs.

Tips:

• Wear sturdy shoes and dress for the outdoors.
• Reserve your spot early, especially during peak tourist months.

Kennel Tours and Dog Sled Demonstrations: Behind the Scenes

For a deeper dive into Alaskan mushing, kennel tours and dog sled demonstrations provide an educational and interactive experience. These tours allow you to meet the dogs, watch demonstrations, and learn about the dedication it takes to train a competitive sled dog team.

What to Expect on a Kennel Tour:

• Meet the Dogs: Interact with sled dogs and learn about their unique roles and personalities. Puppies, if available, are always a favorite!
• Learn the History: Explore the evolution of dog mushing from transportation to competitive sport.
• Watch Demonstrations: See sled teams in action with carts, rollers, or snow sleds, depending on the season.
• Go Behind the Scenes: Discover the care, training, and teamwork that goes into maintaining a sled dog team.

Why Choose a Kennel Tour?

• Hands-on interaction makes it ideal for families and dog lovers.
• Supports local mushers and their racing efforts.
• Offers a relaxed alternative to more adventurous tours.

Tips:

• Ask questions—mushers love sharing their passion.
• Dress appropriately for outdoor settings.
• Be ready for enthusiastic greetings from the dogs!

Husky Walks: A Calmer Connection

For a slower-paced adventure, husky walks let you take a scenic stroll alongside sled dogs. This activity provides one-on-one time with the dogs while enjoying Alaska’s natural beauty.

What to Expect on a Husky Walk:

• Walk with friendly sled dogs, often on leashes or harnesses.
• Explore scenic trails surrounded by forests, mountains, or open landscapes.
• Learn about the dogs’ training, care, and roles as part of a sled team.

Why Choose a Husky Walk?

• Perfect for all ages and fitness levels.
• Provides a unique way to bond with the dogs.
• Great for those seeking a relaxed, interactive experience.

A Summer Adventure You’ll Never Forget

From gliding across a glacier to walking trails with a sled dog by your side, Alaska’s summer dog sledding tours offer something for everyone. These tours connect visitors with the state’s mushing heritage while showcasing its incredible landscapes and wildlife.

Embrace the adventure, meet Alaska’s iconic sled dogs, and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Sled dog tours play a pivotal role in the dog sled racing ecosystem. While not all tour operators are directly involved in racing, many competitive kennels integrate tourism into their operations. This might involve offering tours during the off-season, working as guides at summer tour locations, or sending dogs to “summer camps” where they’re cared for and active in tours.

Tourism is essential to the sport, providing not only a financial foundation but also public education, fan engagement, and training opportunities for both mushers and dogs. Let’s explore the many ways sled dog tours contribute to dog sled racing.

Educating the Public About Dog Sledding

One of the greatest benefits of sled dog tours is their educational impact. Tours often include insights into the care, training, and welfare of sled dogs, as well as the cultural and historical significance of dog sledding. This helps dispel common myths, like the misconception that sled dogs are forced to run. Visitors quickly learn that sled dogs love running, and the real challenge is often teaching them to stop!

Tours also highlight the specialized care sled dogs receive. These athletes are treated to massages, acupuncture, laser therapy, chiropractic care, and diets tailored to their high-energy needs. By experiencing this firsthand, participants gain a deeper understanding of the ethical practices behind the sport.

Building Awareness and Appreciation for Dog Sled Racing

Sled dog tours serve as an introduction to the world of dog sled racing. Many visitors, who may have little prior knowledge, leave with a newfound interest in competitive events like the Iditarod or the Kuskokwim 300.

Summer tour guides, who are often mushers themselves, share personal experiences and aspirations, helping connect visitors to the racing community. This interaction fosters a deeper appreciation for the dedication, history, and challenges of the sport.

Growing a Fan Base Through Sled Dog Tours

For racing kennels, sled dog tours are a valuable way to build a loyal fan base. Visitors who tour active racing kennels often follow and cheer for those kennels in future races. They might also explore other races, participate in events, or support the sport through volunteering or donations.

At our own tours, we’ve seen guests who become enthusiastic followers online, tracking our progress in races and sharing their experiences with others. This expanding fan base is crucial for sustaining the sport, increasing its visibility, and inspiring broader participation.

Economic Benefits of Sled Dog Tours

Unlike many professional sports, dog sled racing doesn’t provide enough prize money to fully fund a kennel. Race earnings can offset some expenses, but most mushers rely on alternative income sources, like sled dog tours, to sustain their teams.

Mushers may offer tours themselves, work as guides for other operations, or send their dogs to participate in off-season activities. These efforts help cover the significant costs of feeding, housing, and caring for a kennel of sled dogs, ensuring they remain competitive at the highest levels.

Sled Dog Tours Inspire and Train the Next Generation of Mushers

Sled dog tours play a key role in developing future mushers. Many of today’s racers got their start as tour guides, learning to handle teams, care for dogs, and manage operations before transitioning to competitive racing. This hands-on experience is invaluable for building the skills and confidence needed to succeed.

For novice mushers, tours also provide mentorship opportunities. They gain insights into dog care, team dynamics, and the day-to-day realities of running a sled dog kennel, setting them on the path to becoming seasoned competitors.

How Sled Dog Tours Help Teach New Mushers

For novice mushers, dog sled tours offer a great way to learn the sport. Many seasoned racers began as tour guides, where they developed their knowledge and skills before moving into racing. Working in tourism gives new mushers hands-on experience with sled dogs and helps build confidence in running teams.

For these aspiring mushers, tourism also provides an opportunity to learn the ins and outs of dog care, team management, and the intricacies of running a sled dog operation.

Training Young Sled Dogs for Dog Sled Racing Through Tours

Sled dog tours also benefit young dogs in racing kennels. Many kennels use tours as a way to keep their younger dogs active and help them develop the skills needed for racing. Younger dogs, who may not yet be mature enough to race, often participate in tours alongside older dogs who are too seasoned to compete but still need exercise.

The younger dogs benefit from the shorter runs typical of tours, gaining experience and learning the ropes of team dynamics. Meanwhile, the older dogs stay fit and active, providing a great learning opportunity for the younger generation.

Why Sled Dog Tours Are Vital to the Future of Dog Sled Racing

Sled dog tours are more than just an exciting adventure for visitors—they are a cornerstone of the dog sled racing community. By educating the public, inspiring future mushers, building a loyal fan base, and providing critical financial and training support, these tours ensure the sport remains vibrant and sustainable for generations to come.

Whether you’re experiencing the thrill of a sled dog tour for the first time or cheering on your favorite team in a race, you’re contributing to the rich legacy of dog sledding.

Current Racing Kennels That Offer Sled Dog Tours

For a firsthand look at the world of dog sledding, many racing kennels offer tours that combine adventure with education. These experiences allow visitors to connect with sled dogs, learn from mushers, and gain insight into the sport. Here are a few notable examples:

Turning Heads Kennel (Seward, Alaska)
This family-operated kennel offers intimate, small-group tours that focus on providing a personalized dog sledding experience. Guests can interact with the dogs, learn about their care, and enjoy scenic rides through Alaska’s beautiful landscapes. Support Iditarod mushers Travis Beals, Sarah Stokey and their team of canine athletes. Travis has run the Iditarod 10 times and competes annually in it. He often competes in other local mid-distance races like the Kuskokwim 300 and the Knik 200. Travis and Sarah often support other mushers looking to run Iditarod who do not have their own dogs and take on a number of apprentices each season.

Alaska Husky Adventures (Talkeetna, Alaska)
Experience the thrill of mushing with this kennel’s hands-on tours, which include meeting Iditarod athletes and learning about their training. Guests can even drive a sled team under expert guidance. Support Iditarod and Kuskokwim 300 musher Matthew Failor.

Black Spruce Dog Sledding (Fairbanks, Alaska)
Black Spruce Dog Sledding provides year-round experiences, including sled rides in winter and educational tours in summer. This tour is run by Jeff and Kattijo Deeter, both experienced Iditarod racers. Usually either Jeff or Kattijo races. They often compete in the Copper Basin 300 as well.

Susitna Sled Dog Adventures (Wasilla, Alaska)
Offering both winter sled rides and summer husky walks, this kennel allows visitors to experience the thrill of dog sledding while learning about the training and care of sled dogs. This tour is owned and operated by Rohn and Alyssa Buser. Rohn has run the Iditarod several times and is currently competing in the mid-distance race circuit.

Dream a Dream Dog Farm (Willow, Alaska)
Owned by musher Vern Halter, this kennel combines education and adventure. Visitors can learn about training methods, hear racing tales, and even attend mushing workshops. Although Vern is no longer racing, he often supports young mushers who are hoping to compete who do not want to own their own dogs.

Dallas Seavey Racing (Talkeetna, Alaska)
Home to six-time Iditarod champion Dallas Seavey, this kennel provides an inside look at what it takes to train elite racing teams. Tours feature demonstrations, stories from Seavey’s career, and plenty of opportunities to meet the dogs. Although Dallas does not race ever year, he often has other mushers taking his dogs to events.

Husky Homestead (Denali Park, Alaska)
Operated by four-time Iditarod champion Jeff King, this kennel offers an immersive experience. Visitors can cuddle puppies, hear mushing stories, and explore the history of dog sledding. Jeff still races in the mid-distance circuit and also supports other young mushers looking to apprentice.

Visiting a racing kennel is more than just a fun activity—it’s a way to support the sport and connect with the heart of dog sledding. By meeting the mushers and dogs who make it all happen, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for this incredible tradition.

A glacier dog sledding camp is a specialized seasonally dog camp located on a glacier, designed to facilitate dog sledding activities. These camps are typically operational during the summer months in regions where glaciers are accessible and safe for both humans and animals. These remote camps are accessed via helicopter. The entire glacier dog sledding camp is brought up to the glacier in late spring and taken down at the end of summer or when there is no longer enough snow for tours to safely operate.

Everything brought up to the glacier is brought via helicopter. Helicopters have the unique ability to haul external cargo using a long line. This is commonly referred to as slinging. Different helicopters have different limits on how much weight they can carry. Often, it takes smaller camps at least a dozen sling loads to set up camp. The larger camps in southeast Alaska 3 or 4 dozen loads.

A glacier dog sledding camp typically consists of a dog yard, guest area, and guide living quarters.

The Dog Yard at a Glacier Dog A Glacier Dog Sledding Camp

A dog yard at a remote glacier dog sledding camp generally consists of sled dog houses, pens, and big wide rows for the trail to go through. Each dog in a dog yard has its ts own house where the dogs can rest, eat, and stay when they are not working. The houses are designed to protect the dogs from the cold glacier surface and to keep them comfortable in the unique glacier environment. Some camps use plastic houses whereas others prefer wood. We use wooden houses in our camp as we have found that is what our dogs prefer.

Pens are often used to house puppies who go to the glacier to be socialized by visiting tourists. In larger camps, pens may be used to help separate female dogs who come into season.

A Dog Yards at a Glacier Dog Sledding Camp Presents Unique Challenges

A dog sled yard on a glacier is a lot more work than an ordinary dog yard. That’s because a glacier is an environment that changes frequently throughout the summer due to snow melt. Snow melt comes not only from warm temperatures but also from rainfall. Anything on the glacier absorbs heat and those areas can melt faster. This means everything we bring up has to constantly be moved around.

Being good stewards requires that a glacier dog sledding camp is leave no trace. Everything brought up to the glacier, has to come down. This includes dog waste. In our camp, waste is collected in 55 gallon drums that are flown off the glacier. The dog waste is then pumped by a local company. Other camps may use trash bags or buckets.

Because dogs shed, we must constantly rake up where the dogs live to collect their hair. To alleviate how much the dogs shed on the glacier, we will often groom our dogs before they go up to our dog sledding camp. When tours are not being run because of weather, guides will often brush dogs and bag their hair too.

Besides picking up waste and dog hair, there is a lot of maintenance that goes into taking care of the dog yard. As mentioned, the glacier is slowly melting. This often leads to dog houses needing to be leveled so that they are comfortable for the dogs. Every few weeks, the dog yard may be moved so that the dogs have a level surface. The yard is not moved far: maybe 10 or 15 yards. Along with leveling the houses, the trail that runs through the yard needs to be maintained. This is groomed with a snow machine and groomer, often nightly, to ensure a smooth surface for both the dogs and guests.

The Glacier Dog Sled Trail runs through the Glacier Dog Sledding Camp

The dog sled trail runs through our camp. Often, there will be several “chutes” that feed into the team. This allows the dog sledding guides and their handlers to easily hook up dogs. It also makes it so that the teams never have to turn around. By running in a big circle, the teams can go on a second run or be easily swapped out for a new dog team.

The trail is often maintained by a snow machine pulling a custom built groomer. This helps keep the trail easier for the dogs. By grooming at night, the trail often will firm up and provide an easier surface for the dogs to pull.

By the chutes, harness racks and other mushing equipment is kept. A glacier dog sledding camp will have a number of dog sleds ready for use, designed specifically for glacier conditions. We have sleds that accommodate 2, 3 or 4 passengers based on the groups we have visiting. We like families to be able to mush together. Large families may have to go out on two separate teams but will be near each other on the trail. Our dogs are quite strong but we do not want to overwhelm them by putting too many people on one sled.

The Guest Area of a Glacier Dog Sledding Camp

The guest area of a glacier dog sledding camp is often near the helipads where the helicopters come in to land. The helipads are often denoted by markers like traffic cones. A wind sock may also be nearby to help the pilots determine the wind direction. The helipads are simply areas of the glacier that have been groomed. Landing in a groomed spot is easier for the pilots and for guests unloading and loading into the helicopter. Again, the glacier is often melting so snow can sometimes be soft and punchy.

Near the helipad, is often benches, platform, or tent for guests to meet at. In our camp, our guests exit the helicopter and generally make their way to either a platform or puppy pen. Having a visual reference for guests to walk to when exiting the helicopter is extremely helpful.

Besides being the area where guests will learn about how to mush and interact with dogs, this area often has a tent with emergency quarters should guests have to stay overnight. Because helicopters fly by visual flight regulations, they need good visibility to see. Glaciers can be unpredictable and weather can change quickly. No one ever wants a pilot to feel pressured to fly in unsafe conditions so the best solution is to always be prepared to have guests stay for an extended period of time. In our experience, this does not happen often, perhaps once a season if that, but it can occur.

Guide living Quarters on a Glacier Dog Sledding Camp

Accommodations for the mushers (sled drivers) who live at the camp for the season vary by company. In general, these might be tents or other temporary structures. Our own camp uses modified ice fishing huts. Other camps use weather ports.

Our guides have private “rooms” while at camp but share cooking facilities and a rudimentary honey-bucket style toilet. We also have a gear shed. The gear shed is used to store dog food, miscellaneous mushing gear, and other items.

Living on the glacier is hard work because you are constantly walking in soft snow. Although driving the dogs and taking guests on glacier dog sledding tours is an important part of the job, a big part that goes unseen is maintaining camp. Everything at camp constantly needs to be leveled and moved. If a building, for example, is not moved it could melt out on only one end. This would result in the building becoming unstable.

Life as a Glacier Dog Sledding Guide

Because of the unique challenges living on a glacier presents, glacier dog sledding guides must be incredibly tough. Working in soft snow and wet conditions means that glacier dog sled guides must be physically fit and have a resilient personality. They also must be comfortable with solitude. When tours are done for the day, the guides still have chores to do. They live on the glacier, often spending 4-5 days in a row up top in small teams. It’s an incredibly unique experience.

Conditions vary throughout the season. Guides must be prepared to endure weather stretches when the helicopter cannot fly. Often, this only lasts 1 or 2 days but can be longer. This means the camp always has to be well supplied with essentials like dog food, propane (used for cooking and heat), potable water for humans, food, and gasoline. Our camp relies primarily on solar power, however, during inclement weather gasoline powered generators help staff stay in contact with our ground support staff.

Glacier Dog Sledding Camp Removal

When glacier dog sled tours are done for the season, the task of removing the camp begins. Taking down the camp often takes several days. First, the dogs are removed from camp and flown off the glacier. The dogs are flown in a custom box that goes inside the helicopter that holds 4 or 5dogs. Guides must take apart dog houses and the helicopter pilots must build external loads. Slowly, everything is removed from the glacier. A final cleanup is done to ensure that the space is cleaned. It is important to be good stewards of the glacier and a proper clean up is important.

Finally, after the gear is flown off the glacier it is dried out and repaired. Then gear is stored for the following season for the entire process to begin again the following season.

Visiting a dog sledding kennel allows you to connect with the beautiful sport of dog mushing and the amazing canine athlete participants.

Visiting a dog sledding kennel is an immersive experience that offers a unique glimpse into the world of sled dogs and the people who dedicate their lives to this captivating sport. Whether you’re a dog lover, an adventure seeker, or simply curious about this traditional mode of transportation turned competitive sport, a trip to a dog sledding kennel can be both educational and exhilarating. When visiting a dog sledding kennel, you will learn about the care and training of these remarkable dogs and see firsthand the bond between mushers and their teams. Here’s what to expect and how to make the most of your visit.

How to Dress for Vis Dog Sled Tour

Dressing appropriately is essential for enjoying your dog sledding adventure, whether it’s in the winter or summer. Here’s how to prepare:

To enhance your experience when visiting a dog sledding kennel, consider reading some books on dog sledding before you travel.

Winter Dog Sled Tour:

• Base Layers: Wear moisture-wicking thermal underwear and socks to keep you dry and warm.
• Insulation Layers: Add fleece or down layers for insulation. These should trap heat effectively.
• Outer Layers: Wear a waterproof and windproof jacket and pants to protect against snow and wind.
• Accessories: Don’t forget insulated gloves or mittens, a warm hat, a neck gaiter, and hand warmers. Sunglasses or ski goggles are also recommended to shield your eyes from the glare of the snow.
• Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof winter boots with good traction are essential. Consider adding insulated boot liners for extra warmth.

Summer Dog Sled Tour:

• Light Layers: Wear breathable, lightweight clothing. Opt for long sleeves and pants to protect against sunburn and bugs.
• Waterproof Outerwear: A light rain jacket or windbreaker is handy for unexpected weather changes.
• Footwear: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes like hiking boots or sneakers are ideal for navigating uneven terrain.
• Accessories: Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to protect against the sun. Bug spray is also recommended during summer months.
• Durable Clothing: Since kennels can be dusty or muddy, wear clothes you don’t mind getting a little dirty.

Summer Glacier Dog Sledding Tour

Dressing for a summer glacier dog sledding tour requires balancing comfort and preparation for cooler conditions on the ice. Here’s what to wear:

• Layered Clothing: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a lightweight fleece or sweater, and finish with a waterproof and windproof jacket. Even in summer, glaciers can be chilly and windy.
• Pants: Wear durable, water-resistant pants to protect against the damp and cold conditions.
• Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof boots with good grip are essential for walking on icy terrain.
• Accessories: Bring sunglasses to reduce glare from the ice and consider gloves to keep your hands warm and a hat for additional warmth. Sunscreen is also recommended to protect against the intense reflection of sunlight off the glacier.

A Warm Welcome from Furry Athletes

Before entering the dog yard, you’ll receive an introduction to what to expect. Each kennel is unique and different dog kennels have different rules for their dogs. It’s important to be respectful of the dogs and not to approach the dogs until you are given permission. 

Houses Are for Resting

Sled dogs are high-energy working animals, and their dog houses are a place of rest. While it might seem unusual to see so many dogs tethered in one area, remember that sled dogs spend much of their time away from their houses, either training or running. Even in summer, they often run 6-8 miles daily, making their houses a well-deserved retreat.

In addition to being tethered, many kennels also have pens for their dogs. These pens can be used to separate females in-heat or can be used as run pens. Some pens have toys or other enrichment items to help dogs stay stimulated on days when they are not training.

Unique Personalities of Sled Dogs

Before approaching any dog, always ask for permission. Sled dogs have a wide range of personalities. While many are friendly and eager to meet new people, others may prefer working with their musher exclusively. Respect each dog’s preferences and don’t be alarmed if some dogs seem uninterested in visitors—they’re likely focused on their role as athletes. Conversely, some dogs may be overly friendly, so be prepared for enthusiastic greetings from these lovable canines.

Educational Tours

Most kennel visits include an educational component where you’ll learn about the history of dog sledding, the evolution of the sport, and the breeds involved, such as Alaskan Huskies. Mushers often share personal stories, providing insight into their daily lives, training routines, and the dedication required to maintain a sled dog team. This is an excellent opportunity to ask questions and deepen your understanding of the sport.

Meet and Greet the Team

The highlight of most kennel visits is meeting the sled dogs. You’ll see firsthand the strong bond between mushers and their dogs, as well as each dog’s unique personality. With the musher’s permission, you can pet the dogs and experience their warmth and energy up close. This interaction showcases the care and affection that go into raising and training these remarkable animals.

Behind-the-Scenes Operations

Visitors can learn about the daily operations of the kennel, including feeding schedules, training routines, and the equipment used in dog sledding. Depending on the season, you might witness harnessing demonstrations, observe a team being hooked up, or see a training run. This behind-the-scenes perspective provides a deeper appreciation for the effort involved in preparing a sled dog team.

Sled Demonstration or Ride

In winter, many kennels offer sled rides, giving visitors the chance to experience the thrill of dog sledding firsthand. During summer, kennels often provide cart rides or dry-land demonstrations. Riding behind a team of sled dogs highlights their incredible speed, strength, and enthusiasm, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.

Holding Sled Dog Puppies

The cherry-on-top of any visit to a sled dog kennel is meeting the youngest members of the pack, the puppies. Visitors to sled dog kennels help play an important role in socializing young dogs. Although puppies aren’t at every kennel year round, many kennels have puppies during the summer either from their own dogs or borrowed from other mushers.

Souvenirs and Support

Many kennels have gift shops where you can purchase souvenirs such as t-shirts, hats, and memorabilia. These purchases support the kennel and provide a keepsake from your visit. Some kennels also have adoption programs for retired sled dogs, offering a meaningful way to support the animals and take home a piece of the experience.

Tips for Your Visit

• Dress Appropriately: Kennels are outdoor environments, so wear weather-appropriate clothing and consider layers. In summer, wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.
• Listen and Learn: Be open to learning from the mushers, who are passionate about their craft and eager to share their knowledge.
• Interact Respectfully: Always ask before approaching or touching the dogs, and follow the musher’s instructions. Respect shy dogs and focus on those that want attention.
• Capture Memories: Bring a camera to document the experience, but always ask for permission before taking photos, especially of mushers or private property.
• Consider Tipping your Guide: Although not necessary, many guides appreciate being tipped for a job well done. A common industry standard is about 10% of the cost of your tour.

Engaging with the mushers while visiting a dog sledding kennel can provide valuable insights into their training techniques and the daily life of sled dogs. Don’t hesitate to ask questions!

Conclusion

While visiting a dog sledding kennel, take the opportunity to ask about the history of the kennel, each dog, and the sport itself. Understanding each dog’s racing history will enrich your visit.

A visit to a dog sledding kennel is more than just a tour; it’s an experience that connects you with the history, culture, and spirit of dog sledding. It offers a rare opportunity to learn about the lives of sled dogs and their mushers while showcasing the passion, dedication, and teamwork that define this incredible sport. Whether you leave with unforgettable memories, newfound respect for the sport, or even dreams of mushing yourself, your visit to a dog sledding kennel is sure to be a highlight of your Alaskan adventure.