Seward: Dog Sled Ride, Husky Kennel Tour & Puppy Cuddles

Summary

Sled dogs pull us through Seward’s forest trails then it’s puppy time

You’ll feel the energy of real sled dogs pulling you through Alaska’s forest trails near Seward, then tour a working kennel with local guides who live for this sport. Cuddle husky puppies (if they’re around), sip hot coffee, and laugh along as you see what life is really like behind the scenes of dog mushing.

What’s the experience like?

“These guys would run all day if you let ‘em,” our guide, Jamie, grinned as she clipped the harnesses onto a squirmy team of huskies. It was louder than I expected — barking, paws scraping at gravel — and the smell was this mix of pine needles and wet fur. The dogs were so hyped that I almost forgot we weren’t on snow; the wheeled sled bounced as we took off down the trail, wind in my face and Resurrection Mountain peeking through the trees. Jamie shouted out names — “That’s Bolt up front!” — and told us how each dog had their own quirks. I kept laughing because one kept glancing back at me like he wanted to make sure I was still there.

We followed Box Canyon Creek for what felt like both forever and no time at all. The ride was smoother than I’d guessed, padded seats helping a lot (I think my knees thanked me). When we stopped, the dogs were panting but still wagging — honestly, their energy is wild. Back at the kennel, Jamie showed us around while someone brewed coffee that smelled strong enough to wake up a bear. There was this moment where they dressed one of us up in an Iditarod musher suit — I did not volunteer, but watching someone else try to walk in those boots cracked everyone up.

The best part? Husky puppies. Little fluffballs with blue eyes chewing on shoelaces and tumbling over each other. One fell asleep in my lap for about two minutes before another woke him up with a nose poke. I didn’t expect to get so attached in such a short time, but yeah… it sticks with you. Even now, sometimes when it’s quiet at home, I remember that rush from the sled ride in Seward and those puppy yawns.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dog sled ride and kennel tour

• Begin 2-mile dog sled ride
• Mush through Seward wilderness
• Learn about dog training and steering
• Return to kennel facilities
• Tour kennel and meet husky puppies
• Watch guest dressed as Iditarod musher
• Hear stories about Seavey family training

Top questions

How long is the Seward dog sled ride?

The dog sled ride covers about 2 miles and is part of a 2-hour tour experience.

Are there husky puppies to cuddle on this tour?

Puppies are usually available from late May through September at the kennel.

Is transportation included in this Seward dog sled tour?

Yes, roundtrip transportation is included with your booking.

Is this dog sled tour suitable for kids?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult; infants sit on laps.

What should I wear for the summer dog sled ride?

Dress comfortably for outdoor weather; wheeled sleds have padded seats and covers for comfort.

Will there be commentary during the tour?

Yes, knowledgeable guides provide live commentary throughout your visit.

What’s included

Your day includes roundtrip transport to and from Seward, a guided 2-mile dog sled ride on comfortable wheeled sleds (rain or shine), a behind-the-scenes kennel tour with plenty of stories from your guide, time to cuddle husky puppies if they’re around that season, plus hot coffee or tea while you hang out with the team before heading back.