Fairbanks, AK: “Drive your Own Dog Team” Sledding Adventure

If you’re dreaming of feeling the rush of winter in Alaska and want to try your hand at mushing, this “Drive Your Own Dog Team” tour in Fairbanks might just be the experience you’re after. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but from what we’ve gathered, it’s a solid choice for anyone eager to get a taste of dog sledding without needing previous experience or hours of training.

What really catches our eye are the scenic trails through old-growth boreal forests and the chance to drive Siberian Huskies in a small, intimate group. Plus, the fact that you’re outfitted with warm gear and guided by seasoned professionals adds peace of mind. But, a quick heads-up — it’s a physically active adventure, especially since about 50% of the trail involves uphill sections that require a bit of legwork.

This tour would suit outdoorsy types who enjoy a bit of physical activity and are comfortable in cold conditions. It’s ideal for those looking for something memorable and hands-on, with no prior mushing experience necessary. However, it might not be suitable for anyone with back, heart, or mobility concerns, or those not prepared for chilly weather.

Key Points

• Hands-on Mushing: You get to harness and drive a team of 4-6 Siberian Huskies, making this a truly interactive experience.
• Stunning Scenery: From mountain vistas to snow-covered forests, the views are a big highlight.
• All Equipment Provided: Warm parkas, boots, and mittens keep you comfortable, so you don’t need to bring your own cold-weather gear.
• Hot Lunch and Snacks: An included hot campfire meal adds warmth and energy, essential on a winter day.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to six participants, so you get personalized attention.
• No Experience Needed: The guides provide lessons and oversee safety, making it accessible for beginners.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect: A Day in the Snow

Arrival and Gear Up

Your day begins at the cozy, off-grid welcome center. Here, Arctic Dog Adventure Co. makes sure you’re dressed for the weather, offering expedition-level parkas, boots, and mittens. Having reliable gear is a game-changer because Alaska’s winter can be brutally cold, especially when standing still or moving slowly. We appreciate tours that prioritize comfort and safety—this one does.

Mushing Lesson and Harnessing Dogs

Once suited up, you’ll get a quick but thorough lesson on how to drive a dog sled. This isn’t just about holding onto the handlebar—your guide will teach you how to harness your team and control the sled. Most participants have zero mushing experience, and guides are patient, making sure everyone feels confident before heading out.

Hitting the Trails

Soon, the dogs are barking and eager to go, and the sleds are released onto the trail. The sounds—runners skimming over snow, paws pattering—instantly tell you you’re in a winter wonderland. You might find yourself dropping into a river valley, where the cold air turns the landscape crystal clear, or staying up on the hilltop with sweeping views of snow-laden birch forests and grazing wildlife.

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Midway Rest and Hot Lunch

About halfway through, everyone takes a break. The dogs are unharnessed, and you can pet them, tell them how good they are, and enjoy a steaming hot drink. The included campfire lunch offers a welcome warm-up and a chance to chat about the experience so far. Many reviewers rave about this part, describing it as “a cozy, authentic moment in the wilderness.”

Second Leg of the Journey

Refreshed, you’ll get back on the runners for the second stretch. This part often includes more uphill sections, requiring some physical effort on your part. Guides emphasize that participants should have decent physical stamina, particularly for balance and upper body strength. If you’re comfortable hiking 2-3 miles in hilly terrain, you’ll likely find this manageable, especially with the support of your guide.

Return and Reflection

After completing your scenic route, you’ll unharness the dogs, thank them, and head back inside to warm up and remove your frost-covered outerwear. It’s a satisfying end to a day filled with adventure, fresh air, and new skills.

The Value of This Experience

At $439 per person, the price reflects more than just the thrill; it covers professional guiding, quality gear, hot lunch, and the chance to drive your own team—a rare opportunity. For travelers seeking an active, genuine wildlife adventure that’s also educational, this tour delivers a lot of value.

You’re not just riding as a passenger; you’re part of the team, learning and participating. It’s a meaningful way to connect with Alaska’s winter landscape, especially if you’ve always been curious about dog sledding but never took the plunge. Plus, the small group size makes for a more personal experience, where guides can focus on your safety and enjoyment.

Possible Downsides

The main consideration is the physical demand. If you’re not comfortable with some uphill walking, or if you have health or mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. The tour’s weight limit of 309 lbs (140 kg) and restrictions on pregnant women or those with back or heart problems also mean it’s primarily suited for healthy, active individuals.

Plus, transportation to and from the kennel isn’t included, so you’ll want to arrange your own ride or shuttle. Weather can always be a factor—if it’s exceptionally cold or snowy, it might impact your comfort, but guides are well-prepared to keep everyone warm.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers who enjoy outdoor activities and are eager to try something new. It’s perfect if you’ve always wanted to experience dog sledding up close and are comfortable with some physical activity in winter conditions. It’s also a good choice for those who appreciate small-group tours with personalized guidance.

It’s less suited for travelers with significant mobility issues, pregnant women in later stages, or those looking for a more relaxed, sightseeing-only experience. If you’re traveling with very young children, you might want to check with the provider, but generally, this tour is geared toward older kids and adults.

FAQs

Is previous mushing experience required?
No, guides provide lessons and oversee the entire experience, making it accessible for beginners.

What should I wear?
You’ll be provided with warm gear, including parkas, boots, and mittens. Still, bringing your own base layers, hat, socks, and a reusable water bottle is recommended for extra comfort.

How physically demanding is this tour?
It involves some uphill sections that require decent stamina and balance. If you can hike 2-3 miles in hilly terrain comfortably, you’ll likely be fine.

Are animals involved?
Yes, Siberian Huskies are the stars of the show. You’ll be working directly with the dogs, and guides ensure they’re well taken care of.

Can I do this tour if I have health issues?
It’s not suitable for those with back, heart, or mobility problems, or pregnant women past the second trimester.

What’s included in the price?
Professional guides, warm clothing, scenic views, hot drinks, snacks, and hot lunch are included. Transportation to the kennel isn’t.

How long is the tour?
It typically lasts between 3 and 6 hours, depending on conditions and the group’s pace.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a hands-on winter adventure and want to experience Alaska’s snowy wilderness while driving your own team of Huskies, this tour offers a memorable and authentic experience. It’s well-suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor pursuits and don’t mind a bit of physical effort. The inclusion of proper gear and guided instruction makes it accessible—even for those with no prior mushing experience.

While it’s not the cheapest activity, the price corresponds to a full day of engaging, guided fun in one of the most iconic winter landscapes. Keep in mind the physical requirements and weather conditions, but if you’re up for it, this is a unique way to connect with Alaska’s wilderness and its famous sled dogs.

In short, this adventure combines scenic beauty, active participation, and the chance to interact with Alaska’s beloved Huskies. It’s not just a ride; it’s a genuine, Participatory experience that offers a deeper appreciation of this unique part of the world. Perfect for curious and energetic travelers ready to embrace the cold and the thrill of mushing.

You can check availability for your dates here: