Imagine mushing through the snowy landscape of Skagway, Alaska, pulled by a team of happy and energetic sled dogs. This thrilling experience is a must-try for anyone visiting the area.
Skagway is a dog sledder's paradise, with its rugged terrain and abundant snowfall making it an ideal location for this winter sport. You can even learn how to drive a dog sled yourself with a guided tour.
The scenery is breathtaking, with towering mountains and frozen lakes stretching out as far as the eye can see. And if you time it just right, you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights dancing across the sky.
Planning
Planning a dog sledding helicopter tour in Skagway requires careful consideration of the weather. Skagway receives heavy snowfall during the winter months, with an average of 108 inches per year.
To ensure a smooth experience, book your tour at least 2 weeks in advance to secure a spot. This allows time for weather conditions to be assessed and for any necessary adjustments to be made.
Skagway's remote location means that weather conditions can change quickly, so flexibility is key. Be prepared for variable weather conditions, including snow, wind, and icy roads.
Unparalleled Access
Planning your trip with TEMSCO means you'll have unparalleled access to some of Alaska's most breathtaking landscapes. You can walk on glaciers, a truly unforgettable experience.
TEMSCO tours offer a range of activities, including dog sledding in pristine environments. Guests can expect to engage in moderate physical activity, such as walking 100 feet over uneven snow.
The helicopter used for TEMSCO tours requires navigating two 18-inch steps with minimal assistance. This can be a challenge for some guests, but it's a small price to pay for the incredible views and experiences you'll have.
A different take: Breckenridge Dog Sledding Tours
Prices & Dates
Planning your trip can be overwhelming, but let's start with the basics. Prices and dates are crucial to consider when booking your tour.
The season for most tours runs from May to September, which is the ideal time to enjoy the beautiful Alaskan scenery. May 1 to September 10 is the specific period for some tours.
A fresh viewpoint: Dog Sledding Trips
Duration is another important factor to consider. Some tours can last anywhere from 1.5 to 2.25 hours, while others may be shorter or longer. For example, the helicopter and glacier dogsled tour can last between 1.5 and 2.25 hours.
Rates vary depending on the tour and duration. The helicopter and glacier dogsled tour costs $599 for adults and $549 for children aged 2-11. The helicopter and glacier dogsled + lower glacier landing tour costs $729 for adults and $679 for children.
Some tours have additional requirements or restrictions. For instance, passengers weighing 250 pounds or more will be charged an extra $150 to reserve adequate space onboard the helicopter. Children under 12 should be accompanied by a parent or other responsible adult.
Here's a summary of the prices and dates for some of the tours:
Duration & Itinerary
Planning your adventure involves considering the duration and itinerary of the tour.
The tour lasts for approximately 3 hours, with varying times for each activity.
You'll spend around 20-30 minutes traveling to and from the cruise ship, and another 30 minutes on a preflight safety briefing and preparation.
This is followed by a 30-minute glacier flightseeing tour via helicopter, giving you a bird's-eye view of the breathtaking scenery.
You'll then have 60 minutes at the dog camp, where you can participate in dog sledding with approximately 30-35 dogs on the trail.
Please note that this tour is weather dependent and subject to the discretion of the tour operator.
In terms of seating in the helicopter, it's determined by weight and balance, and is at the sole discretion of the tour operator.
It's also worth noting that Federal Aviation Administration regulations require children 24 months and older to occupy their own seat, which must be paid for.
If you're traveling with a child under 24 months, they can ride for free as a lap child.
Recommended read: Helicopter Seeds Safe
Experience
You'll meet the excited pups within a very short walk from the glacier, and get hooked up to a sled for a thrilling ride.
The ride lasts about a half hour, with a few stops for pictures, and you'll get to see the pristine snow and the otherworldly feel of this little community.
You can choose to mush your own sled, standing on the runners after a quick lesson, or sit in the sled's basket and enjoy the ride.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the way, such as mountain goats, Dall sheep, moose, and black bears.
The tour is even wheelchair-friendly if you give some advance notice, making it accessible to all ages and abilities.
You'll get a visual feast: the peaks of the Chugach Mountains in the background, the pristine snow, and the otherworldly feel of this little community.
This is the quintessential Alaskan Adventure, suitable for all ages and abilities, and a truly unforgettable experience.
Sources
- https://www.carnival.com/shore-excursions/skagway/dogsledding--helicopter-glacier-flightseeing-172018
- https://www.alaska.org/detail/temsco-skagway-dog-sledding-and-glacier-flightseeing-by-helicopter
- https://alaskaicefieldexpeditions.com/skagway-glacier-dog-sledding-helicopter-flightseeing-tours/
- https://www.alaska.org/detail/glacier-dog-sledding-with-alaska-helicopter-tours
- https://www.tourtravelworld.com/packages/skagway-dog-sledding-glacier-flightseeing-helicopter-tour-package-147928.html
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