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

If you’re dreaming of the authentic Arctic experience—mushing through snowy wilderness behind a team of Siberian Huskies—this “Drive your Own Dog Team” tour in Fairbanks, Alaska, might just be what you’re looking for. Designed for those who want more than just a scenic ride, this adventure offers you the chance to mush your own team and get a real taste of what dog sledding is all about.

What we love about this experience is its personalized approach—you’re not just a passenger but the driver, learning how to harness and guide the dogs yourself. Plus, the stunning scenery of boreal forests and White Mountains makes every moment memorable. However, keep in mind that this isn’t a casual stroll; it requires some physical stamina and balance, especially on uphill sections.

This tour suits travelers who are active, curious, and eager to learn. It’s perfect for those without prior mushing experience but who are comfortable hiking 2-3 miles or engaging in physical activity. If you’re seeking an authentic, hands-on Arctic adventure that offers both learning and breathtaking views, this is a strong choice.

Key Points

Authentic mushing experience: Drive your own team of Siberian Huskies without prior experience needed.
Scenic routes: Travel through old-growth forests and mountain vistas with plenty of photo-worthy moments.
Comprehensive instruction: Guides teach you how to harness and drive the sled, ensuring confidence on the trail.
Comfort provided: Warm parkas, boots, and mittens are supplied, making sure your comfort isn’t sacrificed in the cold.
Hot meal and rest: A hot lunch and drinks midway help re-energize both you and your dogs.
Small group size: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: A Genuine Arctic Experience

If you’re considering a day in the snow that goes beyond the usual sightseeing, this drive your own dog team tour in Fairbanks offers a chance to get up close and personal with Alaska’s iconic sled dogs. What makes it stand out is the opportunity to learn the craft of mushing—from harnessing your team to steering the sled—under the watchful eye of experienced guides.

One of the best parts? You get to be the driver and navigator on scenic trails that wind through dense boreal forests and across open mountain fields. The quiet, rhythmic sound of dogs working in unison is genuinely magical—and unlike a mere ride, this gives you a sense of accomplishment and connection with these incredible animals.

A potential consideration is that the tour involves uphill sections that require some physical effort and good balance. It’s not exclusively a leisurely glide; you’ll need to help your dogs, especially on steeper parts. But for active travelers with decent stamina, it’s a rewarding challenge.

Ideal for those new to mushing but eager to experience the true spirit of winter in Alaska, this adventure strikes a balance between learning, fun, and scenic beauty.

What to Expect From the Tour

Arrival and Preparation: The experience begins at a cozy, off-grid welcome center where you’ll be warmly dressed in provided expedition-level parkas, boots, and mittens. The attention to warmth and comfort is evident—important, because Alaska winters can be biting. The guides are friendly and eager to share their knowledge from the start.

Mushing Lessons: Before heading out, you’ll receive a thorough lesson on how to harness the sled dogs and operate the sled. We appreciated how the guides emphasize safety and technique, making sure that even novices feel confident.

Getting Ready to Mush: Once equipped, you’ll help harness a team of 4-6 Siberian Huskies. The dogs are eager and excited, their barking and pawing at the lines a lively start to the adventure. The guides manage the setup, allowing you to focus on learning and connecting with the animals.

The Ride: As you take the reins, you’ll experience the thrill of driving your own sled—gliding over snow-covered trails, the runners whispering over icy patches. You may choose to stay in the river valley, where crystals form on the black spruce and frost hangs in the air, or stay higher up, where you’ll see rabbit tracks and the sun filtering through the trees.

The journey is punctuated with stops at the halfway point, where you can rest the dogs, enjoy hot drinks, and have a campfire lunch. You’ll be encouraged to pat and praise your team, creating a real bond that enhances the overall experience.

Second Half and Return: Recharged by the hot meal, you’ll hop back onto the sled for the second leg, exploring more of the boreal forest. The total duration can vary between 3 to 6 hours, depending on conditions and group pace.

Ending the Adventure: Back at the kennel, you’ll carefully unharness the dogs, thank them for their hard work, and then step inside to remove frost from your gear. The guides will share stories and answer questions, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for the life of a sled dog musher.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Welcome and gear-up: The experience begins at the off-grid Welcome Center, where warmth and comfort are prioritized. The guides will fit you with high-quality, insulated gear, ensuring you stay cozy even in the cold.

Mushing instruction: You’ll receive a step-by-step lesson on harnessing the dogs and operating the sled. This component is essential for beginners, building confidence and safety.

Harnessing the dogs: Helping to harness 4-6 Siberian Huskies is a lively, engaging process, with the dogs eager to get moving. Many reviews praise the guides’ patience and clarity in explaining the process.

Trail riding: Expect to cover scenic trails through old-growth forests and across mountain vistas. Some travelers mention the beautiful panoramic views of the White Mountains, which make every photo a keeper.

Midway break: A rest stop with hot drinks and a hot lunch provides a chance to relax and bond with your team. Several reviews highlight this as a highlight—”a warm, satisfying break in the middle of an exhilarating day.”

Second leg of the trip: Rejoining the trail for more scenic exploration, with some routes offering views of rabbits’ tracks in the snow and clusters of hoarfrost on black spruce.

Wrap-up: After unharnessing the dogs, you can reflect on your adventure, get some pictures, and share your experience with fellow participants.

Authenticity and Value

While the price of $439 per person might seem steep at first glance, it’s important to recognize what’s included: professional guides, quality gear, hot lunch, and a hands-on mushing experience. The small group size (max 6 participants) ensures personalized attention, making this a more intimate, meaningful experience.

Guests often mention how the guides are attentive and knowledgeable, creating a safe environment for beginners. Several reviews praise the friendly, professional approach, emphasizing that you’ll always feel well-supported.

The scenic beauty of the trails—ranging from quiet river valleys to snowy mountain views—adds incredible value for nature lovers. Plus, the chance to drive your own dog team is a rare opportunity that elevates this experience from a typical tour to a memorable adventure.

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Practical Details & Tips

Timing: Tours are typically available in the morning and afternoon, lasting between 3 to 6 hours. Planning ahead ensures you can choose a slot that fits your schedule.

What to bring: Dress warmly, including layers, a reusable water bottle, and winter sports gear. The supplied gear makes a big difference, but layering is essential to stay comfortable.

Physical fitness: The tour requires good stamina, balance, and upper body strength—think a hike of 2-3 miles in hilly terrain. If you’re in good health and comfortable with physical activity, you’ll enjoy the experience.

Not suitable for: Pregnant women past the second trimester, those with back or heart problems, wheelchair users, or anyone with animal allergies or low fitness levels should consider other options.

Transportation: The tour includes no transportation to the kennel, so you’ll need to arrange your own ride. Check the meeting point at “2270” with the sign for Arctic Dog Adventure Co.

The Bottom Line

This “Drive your Own Dog Team” tour is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a hands-on, authentic mushing experience. The combination of professional guidance, scenic trails, and the chance to guide your own team makes it a memorable day. It’s especially well-suited for active individuals who want to learn a new skill and connect with Alaska’s iconic sled dogs.

While not a casual ride, the effort involved is rewarded with a genuine sense of achievement and a deeper understanding of dog sledding. If you’re after a unique, outdoor adventure that combines physical activity with stunning natural beauty, this tour delivers.

For those with a sense of adventure, a love of animals, and curiosity about winter life in Alaska, this experience offers a genuine taste that’s hard to find anywhere else.

FAQs

Is previous mushing experience required? No, guides will teach you everything you need to know, making this suitable for beginners.

What is included in the price? You get to drive your own team of Siberian Huskies, warm clothing, scenic trails, hot drinks, lunch, and professional guidance.

How long does the tour last? The experience ranges from 3 to 6 hours, depending on the schedule and conditions.

What should I wear? Dress in warm layers, including winter sports gear, and don’t forget a reusable water bottle for warmer hydration.

Are the trails scenic? Yes, you’ll mush through old-growth forests, mountain vistas, and snow-covered fields, with plenty of photo opportunities.

What is the group size? The tour is limited to 6 participants for a more personalized experience.

Is there any physical demand? Yes, good balance, stamina, and upper body strength are helpful, particularly on uphill sections.

Can I just sit and enjoy the ride? This tour is designed for those who want to drive the sled, not just be a passenger—if you prefer a guided scenic ride, there are other options.

You can check availability for your dates here: