Imagine stepping into a winter wonderland where the snow crunches under your feet, and every breath is crisp and invigorating. That’s exactly what this dogsled and reindeer tour in Fairbanks offers—an authentic taste of Arctic life, with moments that stay with you long after.
As someone who’s seen many winter excursions, I can honestly say this trip packs in a lot in just one day, from meeting adorable reindeer to sitting behind a team of powerful sled dogs.
What I love about this experience? First, the chance to connect with local mushers who treat their dogs like family—that’s genuine passion you don’t always find elsewhere. Second, the stunning scenery and the chance to see reindeer up close really make this feel special. That said, a possible consideration is the price—it’s not the cheapest option out there, but the quality of guides and activities can make it worthwhile.
Awesome experience! The dog sleds can go surprisingly fast! You can also pet the dogs and pose for photos with them as well.
Chris was our driver to Borealis Basecamp. He was prompt and very engaging, which made 45 minute drive very easygoing. Upon arriving, we checked quickly. We had about an hour break so we had a delightful early lunch. Right on time, we were introduced to Ashley, our dog musher. Ashley was very engaging and professional. She introduced us to each our the dogs just prior to attaching them to the sled. Then after a thorough walk through, we set off to the most amazing venture. For the next hour we traversed the trail as Ashley gave the dog team commands and showed us the beauty of the area around the Borealis Basecamp. When the experience concluded, we spent the gap time looking at the picture…
The trip was very fun and the tour guide was friendly, the dog sledding lasted a good amount of time and offered very nice views
This tour tends to suit travelers who want a comprehensive, immersive day in Alaska’s winter landscape, especially those interested in learning about dog mushing or animal encounters firsthand. It’s great for curious explorers and those wanting a taste of authentic Arctic traditions, though it might feel a bit long or slow for those seeking a quick, adrenaline-fueled outing.
- Key Points
- What to Expect from the Tour
- Dogsledding Experience
- Meeting the Reindeer
- Food and Additional Activities
- Logistics and Practical Details
- The Downside: Waiting and Shorter Activity Periods
- Who Will Love This Tour?
- The Sum Up
- FAQs
- More 1-Day Tours in Fairbanks
- More Tour Reviews in Fairbanks
- Our NewestFairbanks Activity Reviews
Key Points
- Authentic experience: The tour is run by passionate, local mushers who genuinely love their dogs and the sport.
- Beautiful scenery: Expect panoramic views of the Boreal Forest and a snowy landscape perfect for photos.
- Includes multiple activities: Dogsledding, reindeer meet-and-greet, and optional resort activities add variety.
- Good value for those interested in mushing: The experience offers a solid 1-hour dogsled ride plus animal encounters.
- Potential for waiting: Some reviews mention extended wait times and short activity periods, so patience might be needed.
- Culinary and extra activities: On-site restaurant and complimentary options like snowshoeing or tubing can extend your fun day.
What to Expect from the Tour
The day begins with a 45-minute scenic drive north on the Elliott Highway, taking you into the heart of the Boreal Forest. The location, Borealis Basecamp, is a visual treat—think snow-laden trees, sweeping valley views, and a rustic yet well-maintained setting. It’s a perfect backdrop for a winter adventure.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Fairbanks
Dogsledding Experience
The core of the trip is a one-hour dogsled ride, offered in a way that’s suitable whether you want to sit or stand on the sled. Working with local mushers who treat their dogs as family, this activity is more than just a ride; it’s a chance to see the bond between humans and animals in one of the most challenging environments. According to reviews, guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share their passion.
During the ride, you’ll be pulled through the snowy forest by a team of around 8 dogs. The pace is described as comfortable but exhilarating—enough to get your adrenaline going without feeling unsafe. One reviewer mentioned that the dog sledding was the highlight and that the dogs were obviously well cared for, which adds peace of mind.
Meeting the Reindeer
Following the sled ride, your guide will introduce you to the reindeer herd. This isn’t just a quick photo stop; it’s a 30-minute chance to feed, meet, and learn about these Arctic animals. The reindeer at Basecamp are Alaskan-born, and the staff will explain how they live in the Arctic year-round. Several reviews highlight how friendly and knowledgeable the reindeer handlers are, making the encounter educational and fun.
Many travelers mention how they enjoyed feeding the reindeer and taking pictures, making it a memorable animal experience. However, keep expectations in check—some reviews note that there are only three reindeer on site, so don’t expect a large herd or reindeer as the main highlight.
I really enjoy the dogsled! These dogs are so cute, and our guide is very nice. Highly recommend this trip!
That was the best experience that I have ever had in my life. I was there when it was -20. The stuff is super friendly, they have a shuttle service, warm extra clothes gloves and shoes They have nice restaurants there very clean bathrooms and a good sitting area
A must if you’re visiting Fairbanks! I was so impressed by my dogsledding experience and could not have had a better time zooming around both sitting down and standing on the back at different points. The guides for both the dog sledding and reindeer meet and greet were so friendly and knowledgeable, answering all my questions and making me feel welcome. The view over the hills and seeing the sunrise on Denali in the distance were awesome.
Food and Additional Activities
Lunch is included at Latitude 65, the on-site restaurant, where you can warm up with hot and cold sandwiches, noodle dishes, or fresh soups. The menu is described as rotating, offering some variety, and many reviewers find the food hits the spot after a morning of activity.
Besides, Borealis Basecamp offers complimentary resort activities such as fat tire biking, tubing, and walks along the Pipeline route. If you have time, these add a nice touch, allowing you to extend your Arctic adventure without extra cost.
Logistics and Practical Details
The tour runs from 9:30 am to about 4:30 pm, giving you a full day of activities. Transportation is included, with hotel pickup offered, which is especially handy in Fairbanks. The group size is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.
Booking in advance is wise—most people book around 67 days ahead—and the cost is $274.80 per person, which might seem steep. But considering the guided experience, animal encounters, and included meal, it offers good value for travelers who want a comprehensive Arctic day.
The Downside: Waiting and Shorter Activity Periods
Some reviews point out that waiting times can be long—up to an hour for some, especially if delays happen with late arrivals. Plus, the dog sled ride might feel brief—less than 30 minutes—so if you're expecting an extended adventure, this might be a downside. A reviewer noted that the ride was just 2.5 miles, which is typical but might seem short for some.
That said, many guests find the quality of guides and the authentic atmosphere outweigh these minor inconveniences. The key is patience and setting realistic expectations about the schedule.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is best suited for travelers eager to learn about dog mushing, interact with Arctic animals, and enjoy a relaxing yet immersive day in the snow. It’s ideal if you value authentic stories from passionate guides and want to spend time in a beautiful outdoor setting. Families with older children, animal lovers, or anyone curious about Arctic traditions will find plenty to enjoy here.
However, if you're after high-adrenaline speed or a very long ride, you might want to explore other options. Also, if you’re sensitive to waiting around or prefer a shorter, more intense experience, this tour’s more leisurely pace could feel a bit drawn out.
The Sum Up
The Dogsled and Reindeer Day Trip to Borealis Basecamp offers a well-rounded, genuine look into Alaskan winter life. It’s a chance to connect with passionate mushers, meet some adorable reindeer, and enjoy the stunning snowy scenery. The experience’s strength lies in the authenticity of the guides and the setting, making it a meaningful day for travelers who want more than just a quick snapshot.
While it may not be the cheapest tour, most reviewers agree that the quality of guides, the beautiful location, and the chance to interact with animals make it worthwhile. If you’re looking for a relaxing, educational, and picturesque day in the snow, this tour will likely hit the mark.
Keep in mind that patience is key—long waits and shorter activity windows are noted—and it’s best suited for those eager to soak in the Arctic atmosphere at a gentle, steady pace. If you value authentic interactions and a cozy, scenic environment, you’ll find this experience both worthwhile and memorable.
Dogsled and Reindeer Day Trip to Borealis Basecamp
"Awesome experience! The dog sleds can go surprisingly fast! You can also pet the dogs and pose for photos with them as well."
FAQs
Is transportation included? Yes, hotel pickup is offered, and the drive to Borealis Basecamp takes about 45 minutes north on the Elliott Highway.
How long is the dogsled ride? The ride lasts approximately one hour, with most reviews describing it as a comfortable yet exhilarating experience.
Can I stand on the sled? Yes, the ride accommodates both seated and standing positions, depending on your preference.
Are reindeer included in the tour? You’ll meet and feed the Alaskan reindeer for about 30 minutes. Keep in mind there are only three reindeer, so it’s a relatively small herd.
What’s included in the meal? Lunch at Latitude 65 includes hot and cold sandwiches, noodles, and fresh soups—enough to warm you after outdoor activities.
Is this tour suitable for families? The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, though minors must be accompanied by an adult. It’s a relaxing, educational experience that can appeal to older kids and adults alike.
If you’re dreaming of a winter day in Fairbanks filled with animals, the thrill of sledding, and stunning views, this trip could be just what you’re looking for. Just keep expectations realistic, especially around timing, and you’re likely to have a truly memorable day.
