If you are planning a trip to the Last Frontier, meeting a team of Alaskan Huskies is likely at the top of your list. However, with so many different regions and types of experiences available, it’s easy to feel a bit overwhelmed.
To help you plan your sled dog tour adventure, we’ve rounded up the most common questions travelers ask before booking their Alaskan mushing experience.
1. Can I go dog sledding any time of year?
Yes! One of the biggest misconceptions is that mushing only happens in the winter. Because mushers work with their dogs 365 days a year, you can almost always find a tour regardless of the season.
- In the Winter: You’ll find traditional sled rides on snow.
- In the Summer: You can experience “glacier sledding” (which requires a helicopter flight to high-altitude snow) or “cart rides” where dogs pull wheeled vehicles to stay in shape.
- Year-Round: Many kennels offer summer dog sledding educational visits, walking tours, and presentations on cruise ships or trains.
2. How do I choose the right type of tour?
The “best” tour depends entirely on your specific needs. When browsing, consider these factors:
- Time & Cost: There is a great variation in the length of time and price of sled dog adventures. A 90-minute kennel visit is more affordable and easier to schedule than a half-day glacier helicopter excursion.
- Physical Fitness: Different sled dog experiences are more appropriate for different people. Presentations can be more appropriate to all ages from kids to grandparents and all physical abilities, but are not as active as a sled ride. For rides, some tours allow you to be a passenger in the sled, while others are “hands-on,” where you help harness the dogs or even stand on the runners to help drive.
- The Dogs’ Well-being: Reputable mushers always prioritize the health of their dogs. If it is too hot in the summer or the trail is too icy in the winter, a ride might be converted to an educational kennel visit for the safety of the athletes.
3. Will I get to see puppies?
Maybe, but not always. Not all mushers breed their own dogs. Those who do generally plan for summer litters. This is because the mother dogs are vital members of the racing team during the winter, so they need to be fit and ready to run when the snow falls.
4. What should I wear?
This varies by dog sled tour. Some excursions—especially winter rides—provide heavy parkas, boots, and gear. Others expect you to come prepared.
- Inside vs. Outside: Some tours are entirely outdoors, while others offer a mix of indoor presentations and outdoor kennel time.
- Rainy Days: Alaska’s weather varies by region. Southeast Alaska (Juneau/Skagway) is much wetter than the Interior. Some kennels have covered areas for rain protection, but many operate “rain or shine.” Always check the specific weather and cancellation policies—especially for glacier tours, which are frequently grounded by low visibility.
5. How do I get to the tour?
Distances in Alaska are vast!
- Transportation: Some companies offer shuttles from your hotel or cruise ship pier. Others require you to have your own rental car. Double-check the location before you book to ensure you can actually reach the kennel.
- Booking: While you can often book through a cruise shore excursion desk or a hotel concierge, you can almost always book directly with the tour company online or by phone for the most up-to-date availability.
6. Are these “Siberian” Huskies?
Actually, no! The vast majority of working sled dogs in Alaska are Alaskan Huskies. They aren’t a “purebred” in the traditional sense; they are a breed defined by their performance, heart, and endurance. They are lean, athletic, and incredibly friendly.
7. Do tours sell out?
Yes—fast. Summer is the busiest season in Alaska, and the most popular Alaskan sled dog tours (especially those near Denali or the cruise ports) sell out months in advance. We recommend booking your 2026 tour as soon as your travel dates are confirmed.
Ready to meet the team? At DogGoneIt Tours, we specialize in the “Educational Kennel Visit,” providing a deep dive into the Alaskan lifestyle right near Denali National Park. We offer hotel transportation and a unique look at the world of the Iditarod.