Dog Sledding in the US: Explore the Best Destinations

Dog sledding in the US is an exhilarating winter activity that allows you to experience the thrill of mushing through snowy landscapes while being pulled by a team of energetic sled dogs.

Alaska is the ultimate destination for dog sledding enthusiasts, with its vast, untouched wilderness and abundant snowfall.

In Alaska, you can explore the stunning scenery of Denali National Park, where the highest peak in North America provides a breathtaking backdrop for your dog sledding adventure.

Fairbanks, Alaska, is a popular spot for dog sledding, with numerous tour operators offering guided tours and mushing experiences.

Dog sledding in the US relies on specific breeds of dogs that are bred for their endurance and pulling ability. A Eurohound, for example, is a type of dog bred for sprint-style sled dog racing, typically crossbred from Alaskan husky group and pointing breeds.

Siberian Huskies are another essential breed for dog sledding. They pull more, pound for pound, than some other breeds and have been used as working dogs and racing sled dogs in Alaska since the early 1900s.

These dogs are still used regularly today as sled dogs by competitive, recreational, and tour-guide mushers, and they stand between 20-23.5 inches tall and weigh between 35-60 pounds.

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The Malamute is a large and strong breed of dog, weighing between 36 and 54 kg (80 and 120 lb). They have round faces with soft features.

These dogs are known for their broad chests and thick coats, making them well-suited for hauling heavy loads. They're also tough on their feet, which helps them navigate rough terrain.

Alaskan Malamutes were used in World War II for hauling and messenger work, showing their value in expedition and adventure trips. They're still used for these purposes today, where their strength and endurance are essential.

The Chinook is a rare breed of sled dog developed in New Hampshire in the early 1900s. It's a unique blend of four breeds: English Mastiff, Greenland Dog, German Shepherd Dog, and Belgian Shepherd.

This breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and is the official state dog of New Hampshire. It was welcomed into the Working Group in 2013.

The Chinook is known for its athletic build and "tireless gait", making it a great companion for outdoor activities.

For your interest: Chinook Dog Temperament

The Siberian is a popular dog breed known for its impressive pulling ability. They can pull more, pound for pound, than other breeds like the Alaskan Malamute.

Siberians were originally bred by the native Chukchi people of Siberia and were later imported to Alaska in the early 1900s. They were used as working dogs and racing sled dogs in Nome, Alaska throughout the 1910s.

These dogs are relatively small, standing between 20-23.5 inches tall and weighing between 16-27 kg. Female Siberians typically weigh between 16-23 kg, while males weigh between 20-27 kg.

Siberians have been selectively bred for both appearance and pulling ability, which is why they're still widely used today as sled dogs by competitive, recreational, and tour-guide mushers.

The Greyster is a type of sled dog bred for sled dog racing, especially dryland sports like canicross and bikejoring.

This unique breed is the result of crossing the Greyhound with the German Shorthair Pointer.

The Labrador is a name that's often associated with a specific breed of dog, but it's actually linked to two distinct breeds. The Labrador Husky originated in the Labrador portion of the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador.

These dogs arrived in the area with the Inuit who came to Canada around 1300 AD. The Labrador Husky is not related to the Labrador Retriever.

Despite their name, Labrador Huskies are most closely related to the Canadian Eskimo Dog. There are estimated to be 50-60 Labrador Huskies in the world.

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Togo is a legendary sled dog, born in 1976 in Alaska, known for his incredible endurance and speed.

He pulled the sled for musher Ron Bauer, and together they won several championships, including the 1984 Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.

Togo's impressive performance in the 1925 serum run, where he pulled a sled for 260 miles through blizzard conditions, earned him a special place in history.

Take a look at this: Togo Dog

He was later immortalized in the 2019 film "To the Arctic: A Journey of Survival", which tells the story of his incredible journey.

Togo's legacy lives on through his descendants, who continue to be used for sled dog racing and other dog sledding activities.

His remarkable story has inspired many dog sledders and enthusiasts, who strive to emulate his dedication and perseverance.

Sled dogs come in various breeds, each with its unique characteristics. Some breeds are better suited for specific tasks, such as sprinting or hauling heavy loads.

Sprint dogs, like those bred for speed and endurance, can run up to 45 km/h (28 mph) and have short coats to let heat out. Freight dogs, on the other hand, have dense, warm coats to hold heat in.

Here are some sub-types of sled dog breeds:

Sled dogs also come in different sizes, weighing anywhere from 16 kg (35 lb) to 32 kg (71 lb). Their webbed feet act as snow shoes, helping them move efficiently through the snow.

The Yakutian Laika is an ancient working dog breed that originated in the Arctic seashore of the Sakha (Yakutia) Republic.

They're recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and the AKC's Foundation Stock Service.

The Yakutian Laika is a medium size, strong and compact dog, with powerful muscles and a thick double coat to handle bitter Arctic temperatures.

They're incredibly versatile, able to herd, hunt, and haul freight, making them a valuable asset to their owners.

In terms of their hunting abilities, Yakutian Laikas are known to be able to hunt seals and polar bears, as well as haul sleds for thousands of miles.

I've never personally met a Yakutian Laika, but I've heard they're incredibly hardy and can thrive in extreme cold temperatures.

Consider reading: Yakutian Laika

The Samoyed is a laika developed by the Samoyede people of Siberia. They were used to herd reindeer and hunt, in addition to hauling sleds.

These dogs were so prized, and the people who owned them so dependent upon them for survival, that the dogs were allowed to sleep in the tents with their owners.

Samoyeds weigh about 20 to 29 kg for males and 16 to 23 kg for females.

Dog Sled Expeditions can be a thrilling experience, especially if you visit the right places. Arctic Dog Adventure Co. offers a unique opportunity to visit the world's oldest Siberian Husky kennel, located in Fairbanks.

You can explore Fairbanks on a multi-day winter adventure with Arctic Dog Adventure Co. Tour options range from a few hours in the summer to multi-day excursions, giving you a chance to experience dog sledding in different seasons.

Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a fun experience, dog sled expeditions can be tailored to suit your needs.

Check this out: Dog Sledding Co

If you're not an avid dog sledder, you might be wondering what happens to the dogs after the expedition. They get a well-deserved rest and plenty of food.

The dogs' diet typically consists of high-calorie dog food to help them recover from the physical demands of pulling a sled.

You might be surprised to learn that some dog sled expeditions take place in areas with extreme temperatures, often reaching as low as -40°C.

The Iniakuk Lake Wilderness Lodge Expeditions are a unique and unforgettable experience. Located 200 miles north of Fairbanks and 60 miles above the Arctic Circle, this fly-in luxury wilderness lodge offers an all-inclusive and exclusive experience for those who want to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Alaska.

You can choose from a variety of activities such as dogsledding, snowshoeing, or scanning the skies for the northern lights. The lodge's huge picture windows make it easy to keep a lookout for the aurora from a warm and comfortable interior.

One of the best things about this lodge is that they only accept one group at a time, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience for all guests. This level of exclusivity is hard to find in other dog sled expeditions.

Temsco Mendenhall offers a unique dog sled experience that combines aviation with the thrill of riding a sled pulled by energetic huskies. You'll soar above Juneau in a TEMSCO helicopter before descending onto the ancient Mendenhall glacier.

A fresh viewpoint: Dog Sledding on the Mendenhall Glacier by Helicopter

The helicopter ride provides an breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape, showcasing the glacier's sheer scale and majesty. This is a truly unforgettable experience.

As you ride the sled, you'll get up close and personal with the snow-packed terrain of the glacier, taking in the sights and sounds of this natural wonder.

Here's an interesting read: Glacier Dog Sledding Alaska

Rod's Alaskan Guide Service offers an unforgettable dog sledding experience. You'll glide over the snow on a sled pulled by a team of dogs, many of whom have run the Iditarod, Yukon Quest, or other races.

The dogs are passionate and love to run, and the mushers will share a deeper understanding of this unique sport with you. They're experienced guides who know their stuff.

You'll get to meet the sled dogs and hear first-hand what it's like to run the Iditarod. This is a chance to learn from the experts and get a real feel for the sport.

Rod's Alaskan Guide Service is a great choice for dog sledding in Alaska. They're one of the longest-running dog tour companies in the state.

Imagine gliding through the snowy trails of Alaska, surrounded by friendly dogs and experienced mushers. You can make this a reality with Alaskan Husky Adventures, which offers private sled rides with breathtaking views of Denali.

For a truly immersive experience, consider visiting Seavey's IdidaRide Sled Dog Tours, where you can meet Iditarod champion Mitch Seavey and his family. You'll get to experience a two-mile dog sled ride and tour the rac­ing ken­nel.

Visiting a family-run champion kennel like Alaskan Husky Adventures or Seavey's IdidaRide Sled Dog Tours can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

See what others are reading: Dog Sledding Tours

If you're looking for an unforgettable experience, consider dog sledding in Alaska. This adventure allows you to explore the vast expanse of the land of the Midnight Sun and Northern Lights.

You can visit a family-run champion kennel, meet friendly dogs and an experienced musher for a ride along private trails with views of Denali. This is a great way to get up close and personal with the beautiful Alaskan huskies.

On a dog sledding tour in Alaska, you'll be amazed by the strength and endurance of these incredible creatures. Sled dogs are built for the cold, able to survive on little food at extreme temperatures and yet still able to work with outstanding effort.

For a truly authentic adventure, you can even go on a training run for the Iditarod with experienced mushers. This is a unique opportunity to see the dogs in action and learn about their training.

You can also visit Iditarod champion Mitch Seavey's home, where you can experience an exciting two-mile dog sled ride, tour the racing kennel, and meet the dogs. This is a great way to learn about the history and culture of dog sledding in Alaska.

Jeff King Homestead Tour is a unique experience that lets you get up close and personal with the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. You'll get the insider's perspective on the race from veteran musher Jeff King.

Jeff King has claimed first place four times in the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. He's a well-known celebrity in Alaska and has spent over three decades training his sled dogs.

During the tour, you'll have the chance to visit Jeff's sled-dog training center, the Husky Homestead. This is where Jeff has been training his championship team for decades.

You'll get to meet Jeff's dogs and hear tales from the trail, giving you a glimpse into what it takes to be a champion musher.

The Toklat River Loop is a must-do for adventurous travelers. This 8-day trip takes you through the Alaska Range, offering breathtaking views of open tundra, river bars, mountains, and passes.

You'll start with an orientation day at a lodge, before traveling west along the Stampede Trail and the park's north boundary. The first night is spent in a backcountry cabin, and the second in a heated tent camp near the Toklat River.

The route then takes you up the Toklat River, into the Denali Wilderness, and into the park's interior. This is where things get exciting, with moderately difficult sledding situations and elevation gains that require physical activity.

Be prepared for some challenging sledding, but also be aware that the Toklat Loop is not for beginners. It's best suited for people in good to excellent condition.

One of the highlights of this trip is the flexibility to take day excursions off the main route. You can choose to climb the summit of Stony Hill for an exceptional view of Denali, or explore a glacier valley and one of the smaller glaciers descending from the Alaska Range.

Keep in mind that due to the uncertain nature of the Toklat Narrows, there are some occasions where the loop cannot be completed, and you'll need to return the same route out the North Boundary of the park. This is a rare but possible outcome, so be aware of this when booking.

We offer custom trips that can be tailored to your needs and interests. Our most popular trips can be modified to include extra days for exploring and photography, or to mix mushing with skiing or snowshoeing.

You can choose to spend more time around a cabin, or add a day to slow down the trip. This is especially great for guests who don't want to rush from cabin to cabin.

We also offer the option to venture into wilderness areas outside the park, such as the Yanert River Valley or the South Side of Denali National Park, for returning guests.

With the changing climate in the north country, we've had to adapt our trips to be more flexible. We now offer options that aren't totally dependent on trail conditions, like the Sushana River 3 and 4 day trips that can start and end at the Park Entrance area.

These trips utilize our hut system and can still provide an amazing experience, even if the trail conditions aren't ideal.

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