Turning Heads Kennel
Alaska Dog Sledding Tours
Sarah · ·
Matt moved up to Alaska two years ago from Pennsylvania to pursue his childhood dream of running sled dogs and joined the Turning Heads Kennel team. He ran his first race this past winter and is looking forward to competing in his first Iditarod qualifier this upcoming winter. When he’s not racing or working with the dogs, Matt enjoys being outdoors—biking, hiking, and camping.
This is Matt’s 3rd summer with Turning Heads Kennel. Matt will be on Godwin Glacier and at Turning Heads Kennel.
Sarah · ·
Sarah has been dog sledding for less than a year but has already mastered the basics. Currently studying at a folk high school in northern Norway, she’s eager to gain more experience with the dogs and work with tourists. With a background in customer service, mostly with locals, she’s excited to expand her skills and connect with guests from all over. And of course, she’s looking forward to living on Godwin Glacier!
This is Sarah’s first season with Turning Heads Kennel on Godwin Glacier!
Sarah · ·
Rachel grew up on a farm in upstate New York, where she spent countless hours exploring the fields and woods behind her parent’s house. After earning her BA from Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, NY, she set off on seasonal adventures as a guide and outdoor educator across the country.
Her first taste of dog sledding came right here on Godwin Glacier in the summer of 2023. Since then, she’s taught cross-country skiing in Maine, worked as a paddleboard instructor in Colorado, and even raced sled dogs in Idaho. Now, she’s excited to return to Seward as a glacier guide and can’t wait for her second Mount Marathon Race!
This is Rachel’s second season on Godwin Glacier with Turning Heads Kennel.
Sarah · ·
Born and raised in Bolivia, he’s currently working toward his veterinary degree. Along the way, he’s had the chance to live in China, Hawaii, and Spain. He even got a few surf lessons from a gold medal-winning surfer! And, just for the record, he swears he’s been mistaken for Zac Efron at least a dozen times.
This is Xael’s second season with Turning Heads Kennel on Godwin Glacier.
Sarah · ·
Dog sledding is a one-of-a-kind adventure that takes you on a journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. Whether you’re someone who loves connecting with animals, experiencing different cultures, or understanding a part of Alaska’s rich history, dog sledding offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Here are five reasons why you should go dog sledding and why it’s a must-do for adventure travel enthusiasts.
Winter Dog Sledding offers a truly unique adventure, where you can experience the thrill of mushing through a snowy wonderland. The crisp air, the rhythmic sound of the sled dogs’ paws on the snow, and the serene silence of the winter landscape combine to create an unmatched sense of excitement and connection with nature. It’s a one-of-a-kind way to immerse yourself in the Alaskan wilderness during the winter months.
Glacier Dog Sledding is an unparalleled adventure, combining the excitement of a scenic helicopter flight with the rare experience of mushing on a glacier in the summer. After soaring over Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes, you’ll land on a snow-covered glacier, where you’ll have the unique opportunity to ride with sled dogs on the ice during the summer months. This once-in-a-lifetime experience blends the thrill of flying with the beauty of the glacier, offering a chance to be on snow in the middle of summer, surrounded by towering ice formations and stunning views.
Summer Dog Sledding on a Cart offers a unique twist on the traditional dog sled experience, allowing you to feel the thrill of mushing through the woods even when the snow has melted. Instead of sleds, you ride in a cart pulled by sled dogs, gliding smoothly through forest trails surrounded by lush greenery. This summer alternative lets you explore the Alaskan wilderness from a completely different perspective, offering a fresh way to connect with nature and the dogs.
Not sure what type of dog sled tour is right for you? Check out our blog post The Ultimate Guide to Dog Sled Tours
One of the most unique and rewarding aspects of dog sledding is the opportunity to witness the deep bond between mushers and their sled dogs. As you watch the musher expertly communicate with their team, you gain a true appreciation for the trust, respect, and teamwork that are essential to the success of the journey. The dogs respond to their musher with incredible precision, working in harmony as they navigate the snowy terrain.
This powerful connection between human and animal is the heart of the dog sledding experience, offering a glimpse into the skill and dedication involved in this time-honored tradition. Seeing this bond firsthand enriches the adventure and gives you a deeper understanding of the symbiotic relationship that makes dog sledding such a unique and profound experience.
When you go dog sledding, you have the unique opportunity to experience Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes up close, and every season offers a different adventure. In the winter, you’ll glide through snow-covered valleys and across frozen rivers, with towering glaciers and rugged mountain ranges surrounding you. The serene beauty of these remote areas, accessible only by dog sled, creates a one-of-a-kind adventure for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re mushing through pristine, snow-dusted forests or along the icy edge of a glacier, the landscapes you encounter will truly take your breath away.
In the summer, dog sledding on carts offers a completely different but equally authentic experience. While the trails may not be covered in snow, the experience still holds true to the spirit of dog sledding. Mushers train their teams using ATVs during the fall months, and riding on a cart in the summer mirrors this exact practice, making it just as immersive and real. This gives you the chance to experience the thrill of dog sledding even when the snow has melted, and still enjoy the stunning Alaskan wilderness as the forest comes alive in vibrant greens and golds.
If guests are eager to experience dog sledding on snow during the summer months, a glacier dog sled tour offers the perfect opportunity. Unlike traditional summer dog sledding on dry land, glacier dog sledding takes you to the heart of Alaska’s ice fields, where snow and ice remain year-round. With a scenic helicopter flight that lands directly on a glacier, guests have the chance to mush a team of sled dogs across pristine, snow-covered terrain. This unique experience provides an unparalleled sense of adventure, combining the thrill of dog sledding with the awe-inspiring beauty of Alaska’s glaciers. Even in the warmth of summer, the glacier’s ice ensures a true winter dog sledding experience—allowing guests to enjoy the thrill of snow-covered trails in the summer months. It’s a rare and exciting way to embrace the raw beauty of Alaska’s landscape while still engaging in one of its most iconic activities.
A key part of the dog sledding experience—no matter the season—is ensuring that the dogs remain active and healthy. DKeeping the dogs moving is essential for their wellness. Whether they’re pulling a sled in the winter or a cart in the summer, staying active helps the dogs maintain their strength, stamina, and overall health. This dedication to their physical fitness and well-being is a core part of the musher’s program and is crucial to keeping the dogs in peak condition for both training and racing.
No matter who you’re traveling with dog sledding is an experience everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re with young kids, teenagers, or adults of all ages, this adventure is perfect for anyone looking to connect with nature and share in the excitement.
For families, it’s a fantastic opportunity for kids to meet the sled dogs, learn about the history of this Alaskan tradition, and experience the thrill of the ride. But it’s not just for families. Dog sledding offers a unique adventure for couples looking to explore Alaska’s wilderness together, or for friends seeking an adrenaline-filled day. From leisurely rides to more thrilling experiences, there’s a tour that suits all interests and energy levels.
Whether you’re young or young at heart, dog sledding lets you embrace the beauty of Alaska’s glaciers and landscapes while making memories with those you care about. It’s an adventure that truly knows no bounds, offering something for everyone, no matter who you’re with.
Dog sledding is deeply woven into the fabric of Alaska’s history. It has been used by indigenous peoples for centuries as a means of transportation and survival in the harsh northern conditions. By participating in dog sledding, you’re not just experiencing an exciting activity, but you’re also connecting with the rich history and culture that shaped Alaska. The famous Iditarod Trail, now a thrilling race, was once an essential transportation route, and taking part in dog sledding today honors this long-standing tradition.