Fairbanks: Dog sled tour in subarctic wilderness with guide

Summary

Ride with Alaskan huskies through frozen forests & wild lakes

You’ll meet real Alaskan huskies near Fairbanks, bundle up in arctic gear, and ride a dog sled across frozen lakes and forest trails with a local guide. Learn about mushing culture, try steering if you want, sip hot coffee at the kennel—and share a few laughs with both people and pups along the way. It’s an experience that lingers long after your cheeks thaw out.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember the way the dogs smelled — not bad, just warm and earthy, like fur after snow. We were somewhere south of Fairbanks, bundled up in borrowed arctic gear that made me feel twice my size. The air was sharp enough to sting your nose. Our guide, Mike (he’s been mushing since he was a kid), introduced us to the team one by one. There was a puppy chewing on my glove before we even started — I didn’t mind.

The first few minutes on the sled were louder than I expected. The dogs barked and yipped, all energy and muscle, until suddenly they just… ran. It got quiet except for the runners scraping over ice and the sound of our breath. We slid across a frozen lake, then into the trees where everything turned blueish and still. Mike pointed out tracks — moose maybe? — and told stories about racing the Yukon Quest. I tried steering for a bit (not well), but he laughed it off and said everyone wobbles their first time.

There was coffee waiting back at the kennel, hands wrapped around mugs while we watched the dogs roll in snowdrifts like they’d never get cold. Someone asked how far we’d gone (about 10 miles), but honestly it felt like we’d left regular life way behind. I keep thinking about that silence under the trees — you know when you’re somewhere new but it feels weirdly familiar? Anyway, if you’re looking for a real dog sled tour near Fairbanks with actual mushers (and puppies), this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Alaskan Dog Sledding Experience

• Meet sled dogs and puppies
• Learn dog mushing basics
• 2-hour dog sledding ride
• Explore tundra, forest, and lake trails
• Enjoy complimentary coffee and snacks

Top questions

How long is the dog sled tour from Fairbanks?

The experience lasts about 2 hours including a 10-mile ride and kennel visit.

Is arctic clothing provided for the dog sledding tour?

Yes, jackets, pants, gloves, and hats are included for all guests.

Can children join this dog sled tour?

Yes, children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult.

Are snacks or drinks included during the tour?

Coffee or tea and light snacks are provided at the kennel.

Is this Fairbanks dog sled tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options and all areas are wheelchair accessible.

Will I get to meet puppies on this tour?

You may meet puppies if they are available at the kennel during your visit.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup of arctic jackets, pants, gloves and hats; meeting Alaskan huskies (and sometimes puppies); a guided 10-mile dog sled ride through tundra, forest and lake trails; plus complimentary coffee or tea with light snacks at the kennel before heading back to Fairbanks.