Experience Chena Hot Springs Dog Sledding in Alaska

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Posted Oct 23, 2024

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Pack of Dogs in Sled Harness Resting in a Park
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Chena Hot Springs Dog Sledding in Alaska is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The Chena Hot Springs Resort is located near Fairbanks, Alaska, and offers dog sledding adventures that take you through the beautiful Alaskan wilderness.

As you embark on this adventure, you'll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery, including snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes, and rolling hills. The resort's experienced guides will lead you on a thrilling ride through the snowy terrain, giving you a glimpse into the lives of Alaskan mushers.

Chena Hot Springs Resort has over 50 sled dogs that are well-trained and eager to pull you through the snowy landscape. You'll have the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of dog sledding, as well as the importance of these incredible animals in Alaskan history.

During your dog sledding adventure, you'll ride on a sled pulled by a team of happy and healthy sled dogs, and you'll even get to take a break at the resort's hot springs, where you can soak in the natural warm waters and relax after your adventure.

Tour Information

Credit: youtube.com, Chena Hot Springs Resort Dog Sledding Tour Fairbanks Alaska

Chena Hot Springs Resort is located about 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks, Alaska, and offers a unique dog sledding experience.

The resort's dog sledding tour takes you through the beautiful Alaskan wilderness, with a chance to see the Northern Lights if you're visiting in the winter.

You'll be led by experienced dog handlers who will teach you about the history and technique of dog sledding, as well as the care and handling of the sled dogs.

Tour Overview

Imagine witnessing the breathtaking display of the Northern Lights on a rustic Alaska getaway. You can make this dream a reality by visiting Chena Hot Springs Resort, a world-renowned destination for aurora borealis viewing.

This resort is nestled 65 miles northeast of Fairbanks and has been a hotspot for natural mineral hot springs since 1905. Two gold miners discovered the springs back then, and now it's a year-round resort that's easily accessible by road.

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You'll have the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in the hot springs and pools or with a specialty massage. The resort offers a wide variety of winter outdoor activities, including cross-country skiing, dog sledding tours, and snow machining.

Here's what's included in the tour package:

  • Four nights accommodations, including two nights in a moderate-class hotel in Fairbanks and two nights at Chena Hot Springs Resort (room in Moose Lodge buildings with private bath)
  • Round-trip transfers from Fairbanks
  • Two days pool passes for Chena Hot Springs
  • All taxes and fees
  • 4 to 5-hour Aurora Viewing Expedition tour on day 2

The resort's rustic charm and natural beauty make it the perfect spot for an unforgettable Alaska experience.

Tour Itinerary

You'll be arriving in Fairbanks and can choose to take a hotel shuttle or drive yourself to your accommodation. The airport is a great starting point for your Alaskan adventure.

You'll have some time to explore Fairbanks and consider optional activities like a tour over the Arctic Circle or dog sledding. These activities are a great way to get a feel for the area and its unique experiences.

After a good night's rest, you'll be picked up from your hotel and transferred to Chena Hot Springs Resort, which is about 90 minutes east of Fairbanks. This resort is a great spot for Northern Lights viewing due to its location.

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The resort itself has some rustic facilities, but it makes up for it with its beautiful surroundings and hot tubs, as well as a warm indoor swimming pool. This is a great place to relax and unwind.

You'll have the opportunity to enjoy a 4 to 5 hour Aurora Expedition tour, which takes place on a tracked, military-style vehicle. This is a unique and exciting way to experience the Northern Lights.

The next day is yours to enjoy the resort's activities, such as dog sled rides, snow machine tours, or cross-country skiing. You can also book a massage or rent winter gear if needed.

Getting There

Getting There can be a challenge, especially with icy and snowy roads. Chena Hot Springs is 66 miles away, but the drive takes a solid 90 minutes due to the treacherous conditions.

Most of the drive consists of incredibly icy roads with no gravel, making it a hazardous journey. We fish-tailed a few times on the drive out and back, which was unsettling.

Alaskan Malamute Dog
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If you're not comfortable driving on icy, snowy, wintery roads, I'd highly recommend the shuttle service. It's a convenient and safe option for getting to the resort.

Renting a vehicle and driving there yourself is also an option, but be sure to compare the rates of the rental car to the shuttle. Rental cars can be quite expensive, especially if you're not planning to use them for a long period.

Chena Hot Springs Dog Sledding

Chena Hot Springs dog sledding is a unique experience where you can ride in a sled pulled by happy huskies, just like our daughter-in-law Cammie and grandson Chris did.

You can expect to see traditional sleds being used for hauling loads, which is a great way to experience the power and teamwork of these amazing dogs.

The Chena Hot Springs resort offers dog sledding adventures that are perfect for families and adventure-seekers alike.

Hot Springs Area

The Hot Springs Area is a must-visit destination, especially for outdoor enthusiasts. Located about 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks, Alaska, this region is home to Chena Hot Springs Resort, where you can soak in natural hot springs after a day of dog sledding.

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The resort's hot springs are a unique feature, with temperatures ranging from 106°F to 112°F. You can soak in the warm waters, relax, and rejuvenate.

Chena Hot Springs Resort offers a range of accommodations, including hotel rooms and cabins, so you can stay on-site and enjoy the hot springs and other amenities.

About the Experience

The experience of dog sledding at Chena Hot Springs is truly unforgettable. I was amazed by the sheer speed and agility of the sled dogs as we glided through the snowy landscape.

Our guide, a seasoned musher, expertly handled the team of 12 dogs, each with its own unique personality and quirks. The dogs were a mix of Alaskan Huskies and Malamutes, bred specifically for their strength and endurance.

The temperature dropped to -20°F (-29°C) during our ride, but the hot springs waiting for us at the end made it all worthwhile. We spent hours soaking in the natural hot water, relaxing our muscles and rejuvenating our spirits.

The scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests were breathtaking, with towering trees and snow-covered peaks stretching as far as the eye could see.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the weight limit for dog sledding in Fairbanks?

The weight limit for dog sledding in Fairbanks is 400 lbs per sled. Please note that only members from the same booking can sit together.

Do you tip for dog sledding?

Tipping for dog sledding is customary and expected. A generous tip is a way to show appreciation for the musher's expertise and care for the sled dogs.

Lucy Orn-Mills

Writer

Lucy Orn-Mills is a versatile writer with a passion for canine culture. With a keen interest in the world of dogs, she has penned articles on a wide range of topics, from the charming Border Terrier to the rich history of dog breeds originating in Scotland and England. Lucy's expertise extends to the fascinating realm of Terriers, a group of breeds known for their feisty and affectionate nature.