Alaska’s backcountry offers a thrilling winter adventure with the Willow Winter Dog Sledding Tour. For 2 captivating hours, guests can interact with retired Iditarod sled dogs, drive their own sled, and enjoy the breathtaking Alaskan wilderness. Guided by knowledgeable professionals, this unique experience promises an unforgettable escapade. While safety restrictions apply, the tour’s stellar reviews suggest it’s a must for adventure enthusiasts seeking an exceptional way to explore the state’s stunning landscapes.
Key Points
- 2-hour dog sledding adventure in the Alaskan backcountry, starting at $150 per person, with professional guides and interaction with retired Iditarod sled dogs.
- Guests can try driving the sled and experience the breathtaking Alaskan wilderness, with warm clothing, transportation, and campfire tales included.
- Suitable for adventure seekers, with an educational component on sled dog history, training, and care from experienced guides.
- Not recommended for children under 2, pregnant women, or those with back problems, with safety gear and instructions provided.
- Highly rated experience, with exceptional guides and positive feedback on the care of the dogs and overall enjoyment of the adventure.
Activity Overview
The winter dog sledding adventure, titled "Willow: Winter Dog Sledding Adventure," offers a thrilling 2-hour experience through the snow-covered backcountry of Alaska.
Costing from $150 per person, this activity is likely to sell out, so customers should check availability for starting times.
Costing from $150 per person, this activity is likely to sell out, so customers should check availability for starting times.
While cancellations are free up to 3 days in advance, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 2, pregnant women, or those with back problems.
The experience includes a professional guide, warm clothing, and transportation to/from the activity location, along with campfire tales and sled dog history.
Looking for more options in Willow? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Experience Highlights
Participants can embark on a thrilling dog sledding adventure through Alaska’s snow-covered backcountry.
They’ll have the chance to meet and interact with retired Iditarod sled dogs and learn about their history and care from an experienced guide. Guests can even try their hand at driving the sled, enjoying stunning views of the Alaskan wilderness as the dogs pull them along.
The sleds are designed for two passengers and a guide, pulled by 8 to 12 dogs, offering an exhilarating and memorable experience for adventure seekers.
Tour Details
This 2-hour dog sledding tour includes a professional guide, warm clothing and gear, campfire tales and sled dog history, as well as transportation to and from the activity location.
Snacks are provided, but other food and drinks are excluded. The sled is designed for two passengers plus one guide, pulled by 8 to 12 dogs.
However, this activity isn’t suitable for children under 2 years, pregnant women, or individuals with back problems.
Participants should wear comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and bring a camera, snacks, water, and snow clothing. Smoking is prohibited on the tour.
Meeting Point and What to Bring
Where’s the tour’s meeting point?
The tour starts approximately 1 hour from downtown Anchorage, with secure parking available on-site.
Participants should bring the following items:
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Comfortable shoes
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Warm clothing
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Camera
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Snacks and water
Smoking is prohibited during the tour.
The organizers provide warm clothing and gear, as well as transportation to and from the activity location.
Participants should dress in snow-appropriate attire to fully enjoy the winter dog sledding adventure.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Reviews and Ratings
The winter dog sledding adventure boasts an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 8 reviews.
Reviewers praise the exceptional guides, noting they were "amazing" and "knowledgeable."
Customers also highlight how well the dogs are cared for, with one reviewer stating "the dogs love their job."
Another reviewer calls the experience "super fun" and great for "adventure seekers."
Sled Dog History and Care
As part of the winter dog sledding adventure, guests have the opportunity to learn about the rich history and care of sled dogs from experienced guides.
From the origins of sled dogs in the Arctic regions to their crucial role in transportation and survival, the guides share fascinating insights.
Guests also learn about:
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The specialized training and conditioning of sled dogs.
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The importance of nutrition and veterinary care to maintain the dogs’ health and performance.
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Techniques for harnessing and driving the sled dogs efficiently.
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The ethical treatment and humane practices in modern sled dog operations.
Driving the Sled
Although the dogs do most of the work, guests have the chance to actively drive the sled during the tour. The guide will provide clear instructions on controlling the sled and commanding the dogs. Guests can take turns steering and braking, experiencing the thrill of mushing their own team. The sled is designed for two passengers plus one guide, pulled by 8 to 12dogs.
| Sled Features | Guest Responsibilities | Dog Commands | Safety Tips |
| — | — | — | — |
| 2-passenger capacity | Steer and brake the sled | "Gee" (right) | Follow guide’s instructions |
| Sturdy construction | Manage the sled’s momentum | "Haw" (left) | Keep hands/feet inside the sled |
| 8-12 sled dogs | Communicate with the dogs | "Hike" (faster) | Wear provided safety gear |
| Guided by an expert | Take turns driving | "Whoa" (stop) | Stay seated during the ride |
Capturing the Alaskan Wilderness
Gliding through the pristine, snow-blanketed landscapes of Alaska, guests on this dog sledding adventure are treated to breathtaking vistas of the region’s untamed wilderness.
The sled’s dogs bound through the serene and picturesque scenery, offering opportunities to capture the essence of the Alaskan backcountry. Guests can:
Sled dogs bound through serene, picturesque Alaskan scenery, offering opportunities to capture the essence of the backcountry.
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Photograph the majestic mountains rising in the distance.
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Admire the glistening snowfields that stretch out before them.
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Spot wildlife, such as caribou or moose, traversing the landscape.
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Immortalize the thrill of the sled’s motion against the snowy backdrop.
These visual memories will undoubtedly complement the exhilarating dog sledding experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Pets on the Tour?
No, pets are not allowed on the dog sledding tour. The tour only allows participants and is not suitable for bringing your own animals. Smoking is also prohibited during the activity.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Unfortunately, there is no option to extend the duration of the Willow: Winter Dog Sledding Adventure tour. The tour is fixed at 2 hours and any requests to extend the time would not be accommodated.
Do You Provide Any Medical Assistance in Case of Emergencies?
Yes, the tour operator provides first aid assistance and has emergency protocols in place in case of any medical emergencies during the dog sledding adventure. They have trained staff and access to medical facilities nearby.
How Do You Ensure the Safety of Participants During the Sled Ride?
The tour provider prioritizes participant safety. Guides are trained in first aid and there are safety protocols in place, such as proper fitting gear, careful sled loading, and close supervision throughout the sled ride. Participants’ well-being is the top concern.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Fitness Requirements to Join the Tour?
The tour has age and fitness restrictions. Children under 2 years old and pregnant women are not permitted. Individuals with back problems may also be unable to participate due to the physical demands of the activity.
The Sum Up
The Willow Winter Dog Sledding Adventure offers a thrilling and unforgettable glimpse into Alaska’s captivating backcountry. Guests can interact with Iditarod sled dogs, drive the sled, and enjoy the breathtaking Alaskan wilderness, all while guided by knowledgeable professionals. With a stellar rating and safety precautions in place, it’s an exceptional experience for adventure enthusiasts seeking a truly unique escapade.
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