Fairbanks, AK: Half Day “Drive your Own Dog Team” Tour

If you’ve ever dreamed of commanding a team of energetic Siberian Huskies across snow-dusted trails, this half-day dog sledding experience might just be the highlight of your Alaskan adventure. Offered by Arctic Dog Adventure Co., this tour offers a rare chance to drive your own dog team through the wilderness, rather than just riding along as a passenger.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the hands-on nature — you’re actually harnessing and mushing your own team of 4-6 dogs, which gives you a true sense of what sledders do in the cold winter months. Second, the scenic trails through old-growth boreal forests and up to panoramic ridges provide views you’ll want to photograph and remember.

That said, a consideration for some travelers is the cost—$439 per person—which might seem steep at first glance. However, when you factor in the personal involvement, expert guidance, and unique scenery, it’s an experience that offers genuine value for those craving an authentic taste of Alaskan winter life.

This tour suits adventure travelers, animal lovers, and anyone eager to learn a new skill in a stunning natural setting. It’s not ideal for those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or travelers with certain health restrictions, so plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Hands-on experience: Drive a team of Siberian Huskies yourself, rather than just watching.
• Stunning scenery: Traverse 4-6 miles of scenic trails through old-growth boreal forest and up to panoramic ridges.
• Expert guidance: Learn how to harness and control your team with professional guides who teach mushing basics.
• Photo opportunities: Plenty of chances to capture the landscape and the dogs during breaks.
• Weather gear provided: Warm parkas, snow pants, boots, and mittens are included—no need to worry about the cold.
• Limited group size: Small groups (up to six participants) ensure personalized attention and safety.

Driving your own dog team might sound intimidating to some, but this tour is designed to be accessible even for beginners. We loved the way the guide introduces the basics, showing how to harness the dogs and control the sled. The training session is quite thorough — you’ll practice slowing down, stopping, and steering before heading out. That preparation builds confidence, so even first-timers can enjoy the ride.

The scenic trails wind through dense old-growth boreal forest, a landscape filled with towering trees covered in snow. The forest feels primal and peaceful, interrupted only by the sound of eager Siberian Huskies barking and panting as they pull the sled. The trail isn’t overly challenging, but the distance of 4 to 6 miles means you’re actively involved for about an hour, making this a substantial half-day adventure.

One of the highlights is reaching the top of a ridge with sweeping views of the White Mountains and the Chatanika River Valley. These panoramic vistas are truly breathtaking and provide excellent photo ops. From this vantage point, you can appreciate the vast wilderness that surrounds Fairbanks and get a sense of what winter life might have been like for early explorers and sledders.

Authentic interaction with the huskies is another aspect travelers rave about. You’re encouraged to spend time with the dogs, learn about their personalities, and even take photos with them. The dogs are clearly well cared for and eager to work, adding a genuine feeling of companionship to the experience.

The guides are certified wilderness professionals who make safety and education a priority. They also provide all necessary winter gear, which is important because temperatures can be quite cold — but you’ll stay warm and comfortable during your adventure.

Time-wise, the tour lasts approximately 2-3 hours from start to finish, with at least an hour on the sled. This balance of activity and scenic breaks makes it a manageable, memorable outing without feeling rushed.

At $439 per person, this tour isn’t inexpensive, but it’s easy to see why when you consider what’s included — personal mushing instruction, your own team of dogs, scenic trails, professional guides, and warm gear. The unique opportunity to drive your own team makes this a memorable, hands-on adventure that many travelers consider a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Reviews mention the value of the personal interaction: “We loved the hands-on experience of harnessing the dogs and learning how to mush,” one traveler noted. Another appreciated the “amazing views” and the chance to “drive through beautiful forests and reach panoramic ridges.”

While some reviews note that no prior experience is required, the emphasis is on the learning aspect, making it accessible. For those seeking a unique, active way to explore Alaska’s winter landscape, this is a compelling choice.

Meeting Point is straightforward: look for a sign reading “2270” and “Arctic Dog Adventure Co.” at the bottom of the driveway. Parking is available, and you’ll walk up to the check-in area.

Dress appropriately: the tour provides cold-weather gear, but travelers should layer up with their own thermals, hats, and socks for added comfort. A camera, snacks, and water are recommended for breaks.

Restrictions: The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, mobility issues, or certain health conditions. It’s also not allowed for pets or unaccompanied minors.

Cancellation policy is flexible—free cancellation if you notify at least 24 hours in advance—and you can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This experience is perfect for adventure lovers eager to try something truly different. It appeals to animal enthusiasts interested in Siberian Huskies and their caretakers. It’s especially good for people who want an active, hands-on experience rather than just sitting as a passenger.

If scenic landscapes and the thrill of driving a dog team appeal to you, this tour will be a highlight. However, travelers with mobility restrictions or those uncomfortable with cold weather might want to consider other options.

This “Drive your Own Dog Team” tour near Fairbanks offers an authentic, engaging look into the world of Alaskan sled dogs. For a few hours, you become part of the wilderness, learning to harness, command, and enjoy the company of eager Siberian Huskies while taking in some of the most beautiful winter scenery Alaska has to offer.

The value here isn’t just in the scenery, but in the personal involvement. You’re not just watching from the side — you’re guiding your own team through pristine forests and up to panoramic ridges. The memories of that exhilarating ride, the companionship of the dogs, and the stunning views make this a worthwhile splurge for those wanting a genuine, active winter adventure.

Ideal for travelers craving an authentic, hands-on experience, this tour will leave you with stories, photos, and perhaps a new appreciation for the art of mushing. It’s a chance to connect with Alaska’s rugged frontier in a way few other activities can offer, all in a safe and professionally guided setting.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, no prior mushing experience is needed. Guides teach you everything you need to know about harnessing and controlling the team.

What should I wear?
Layers are key. The tour provides warm outer clothing—including parkas, snow pants, boots, and mittens—so just bring your own thermals, hat, and socks for extra warmth.

How long is the sled ride?
You’ll spend about an hour actively on the sled, covering 4-6 miles of scenic trails.

Are there photo opportunities?
Absolutely. There are plenty of scenic stops and breaks, especially at the ridge top, perfect for photos of the landscape and sled dogs.

What is included in the price?
The fee includes driving your own dog team, all necessary gear, professional guides, and scenic trail experience.

Is transportation to the tour included?
No, transportation to the kennel is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own or coordinate with the provider.

Can I bring my camera?
Yes, a camera is recommended to capture the beautiful scenery and happy dogs during your adventure.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, this tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those with certain health concerns. Pets and unaccompanied minors are not allowed.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. You also have the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.

In short, this Fairbanks dog sledding tour is a rare chance to drive your own team of huskies amid Alaska’s winter wilderness. With stunning vistas, expert guides, and the thrill of mushing, it’s a memorable experience anyone craving adventure and authentic scenery should consider.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby