Fairbanks: Dog Sled Ride & Chatanika Forest with Owner Guide

Summary

Dog sledding in Chatanika’s snowy woods, puppies, laughter and steaming cocoa

You’ll race through Chatanika’s snowy forest on a real dog sled with an owner-guide, then spend time meeting every dog (and puppies!) before warming up inside their dome with hot chocolate. It’s small-group and hands-on — you’ll leave with cold cheeks and probably a goofy grin.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll want to lean forward!” That’s what our guide yelled as the dogs lurched into motion — I barely had time to process the cold air biting my cheeks before we were flying through the white-barked forest outside Fairbanks. The sled runners made this soft shushing sound over the snow, and I kept catching whiffs of pine and something earthy, maybe from the dogs themselves. Our guide (her name was Anna, she runs Howling Bay Kennel with her family) pointed out old trapper trails and told us stories about how people used to rely on these teams for everything. She had this way of laughing at her own stories that made you feel like you’d known her for years.

I didn’t expect to get so attached to the dogs — they’re all different personalities, some jumpy and wild-eyed, others just wanted ear scratches. After our 45-minute ride (honestly felt both longer and shorter than that), we got to thank each dog by name. Anna snapped a photo of me with one of the older lead dogs who apparently “thinks he owns the place.” There were puppies too — tiny paws, sharp little teeth nibbling my glove. My hands were numb but I didn’t care much. We all crowded into their geodesic dome afterwards, clutching mugs of hot chocolate that tasted sweeter than usual after being out in the wind. Someone’s boots steamed by the heater; it smelled like wet wool and cocoa powder.

I still think about that weird quiet when the sled stopped deep in the trees — just breathing, dogs panting, no traffic or anything except snow settling off branches. If you’re looking for a dog sled adventure near Fairbanks that feels personal and not rushed (they only do two groups a day), this is it. Bring an extra layer though; I thought I’d packed enough but… well, Alaska always wins.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dog sled ride and dog interaction

• Arrive and get outfitted in gear
• Enjoy 45-minute dog sled ride
• Thank and take pictures with dogs
• Pet dogs and puppies
• Warm up with hot chocolate

Top questions

How long is the dog sled ride near Fairbanks?

The sled ride lasts about 45 minutes through Chatanika’s forest.

Are children allowed on this dog sled tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller or sit on an adult’s lap.

Is there a weight limit for guests?

The weight limit is 250 lbs per guest clothed; contact them if you have questions about exceptions.

Do I get to meet or pet the sled dogs?

Yes, after riding you’ll spend time meeting, petting, and taking photos with all the dogs—including puppies.

Is hot chocolate included after the tour?

Yes, guests are served hot chocolate inside a geodesic dome after the ride.

How many people are on each dog sled tour?

This is a small group experience—only two tour slots per day are available.

Where does this Alaska dog sled adventure take place?

The tour takes place in Chatanika forest near Fairbanks, Alaska.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided dog-powered sled ride through Chatanika’s snowy forest with an owner from Howling Bay Kennel, plenty of time meeting and petting all their friendly dogs (and usually some puppies), plus photos taken for you and hot chocolate served inside their cozy geodesic dome at the end.