Alta Valley: Private Husky Sled Ride with Local Guide

Summary

Private husky sledding in Alta with local hosts and warm drinks

You’ll meet playful huskies near Alta and ride through snowy forests with a small group and local guide. Learn how to drive your own sled (if you want), then warm up with coffee or hot chocolate after cuddling the dogs — moments you’ll remember long after the trip.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the air smelled — like pine, cold metal, and something wild that I couldn’t place at first. The dogs were already barking when we arrived at the little kennel outside Alta. Our guide, Maja, waved us over and introduced us to each husky by name (I forgot half of them instantly — sorry, Balto?). They’re not shy about attention; one of them nudged my glove until I finally gave in and scratched behind his ears. My fingers were already freezing but honestly, it was worth it.

I’d never been on a dog sled before, so when Maja asked if anyone wanted to try driving, I hesitated. My partner jumped at the chance — I just held on tight and tried not to look ridiculous. The sled glided out onto the snow along the Alta river, and for a while all you could hear was paws hitting packed snow and the runners squeaking underneath. It felt fast but also kind of peaceful? The sky was that pale blue you only get up north in winter. We didn’t see the Northern Lights (not this time), but honestly I didn’t mind.

After about an hour — maybe less, maybe more; time got weird out there — we circled back to the kennel. The dogs flopped down in the snow like they’d just finished a marathon (which I guess they had). Maja handed us mugs of hot chocolate that steamed up my glasses so badly I almost missed her telling a story about one of their oldest huskies who apparently once stole someone’s sandwich mid-ride. There’s something about sharing a drink outside in that kind of cold that makes it taste better than usual. I still think about that view over the river sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Husky Sledding Experience in Alta

• Put on warm clothes
• Meet and cuddle huskies
• Learn sled driving basics
• Dogsledding trip along Alta river
• Cuddle huskies and enjoy warm beverage

Top questions

How long does the private husky sled ride last?

The sled ride itself lasts 45-60 minutes depending on weather and conditions.

Is pickup included for this Alta Valley husky tour?

No, pickup is not included; you meet at the kennel near Alta.

Can I drive my own dog sled during this experience?

Yes, if you’re fit enough and want to try, your guide will show you how to drive.

Are snacks or drinks provided on this tour?

Yes, you’ll get coffee, tea or hot chocolate after your ride as well as some snacks.

How many people are on each private husky sled tour?

The maximum group size is four people per session for a personal experience.

Is this activity suitable for wheelchair users?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

What should I wear for dog sledding in Alta?

Dress very warmly with thermal layers; it gets extremely cold during winter rides.

Can pregnant travelers join this husky sledding tour?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to safety reasons.

What’s included

Your experience includes meeting friendly huskies at a small local kennel near Alta, guidance from passionate hosts who know every dog by name, roughly an hour’s private sled ride along snowy trails by the river (with two guests per sled), plus hot drinks and snacks to warm up afterward before heading back into town.