Sled Dog Adventure in Skagway

If you’re heading to Skagway and looking for a memorable way to connect with Alaska’s iconic sled dogs, this tour offers an engaging mix of scenery, history, and furry fun. Rather than a simple sled ride, it combines a scenic drive, a mountain trek in a rugged Unimog, a thrilling husky sled experience, and a sweet puppy cuddling session—all in about three and a half hours. It’s a well-rounded outing that suits animal lovers, adventure seekers, and families alike.

What we love about this experience is how it manages to make you feel part of the Alaskan wilderness, with knowledgeable guides adding context and personality. Plus, the inclusion of a ‘Kennel Talk’ where experts answer questions makes it not only fun but educational. On the flip side, some travelers mention that the actual sled ride could be a bit shorter for the price. Still, if you’re craving an up-close encounter with huskies and stunning scenery, this tour hits the mark.

Ideal for those who want a mix of adventure, animals, and local culture, this trip works best for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities but also appreciate comfort and a touch of history. Families with kids, animal enthusiasts, and anyone curious about sled dog life will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Combines a scenic drive, mountain ride, sled dog adventure, and puppy cuddles into one tour
• Guided by knowledgeable, friendly staff with a focus on education and interaction
• Offers great value—an immersive experience that covers multiple facets of Alaskan outdoor life
• Suitable for most ages and mobility levels, with round-trip transportation included
• Shorter ride time (around 20 minutes) but packed with memorable moments
• Ideal for animal lovers and those wanting a genuine, hands-on connection with sled dogs

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point and Downtown Skagway Tour

Your journey begins on 2nd Avenue & Broadway, right in the heart of Skagway. From here, a friendly guide takes you on a brief yet lively tour of downtown Skagway and along nine miles of coastline. This part of the trip sets the scene with local stories and scenic views, giving you a taste of Alaskan history and natural beauty before the adventure truly begins.

Several reviewers appreciate this intro, noting the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. One mentioned, “Our bus driver, Patrick, was so knowledgeable and had a great personality,” which hints at the quality of interaction you can expect throughout.

The Unimog Ride to the Mushing Camp™

Next, you hop into a custom-designed Unimog, a rugged all-terrain vehicle, for a ride up a mountain road. Expect to be surrounded by streams, waterfalls, and lush forest as you ascend into the mountains. This part of the tour is quite scenic, and the ride itself adds an element of adventure that appeals to those who love off-road journeys.

Travelers often mention how fun and comfortable the ride is, and several praise the skill of the driver and guide. It’s a great way to transition from town to wilderness, making the entire experience feel more immersive.

The Mushing Camp and the Sled Ride

At the summit, you’ll meet your musher and get introduced to a team of lively Alaskan huskies. Here’s where the real magic kicks in. You’ll sit on a specially designed summer sled and be pulled through Tongass National Forest—about a mile of zig-zagging trail through dense woods and alongside rushing streams.

This sled ride, while around 20 minutes, offers plenty of opportunities for photos and interaction with the dogs. Many reviews highlight how powerful and energetic the huskies are, with one guest noting, “The dogs were amazing and so was our musher Nicole!”

Kennel Talk and Animal Interaction

After the ride, you’ll have a chance for a ‘Kennel Talk,’ where experts answer questions about sled dogs, their training, and life at the kennel. This educational component deepens your appreciation for these hardworking animals and their importance in Alaskan culture.

Puppy Cuddle Session

The cherry on top? Spending time with adorable husky puppies. Many travelers describe this as a highlight, with comments like “Love the puppies! They’re so cute and friendly,” and “We had such a great time cuddling puppies again after two years.” This segment is perfect for animal lovers and those looking to create lasting memories.

The Experience’s Value and Practical Details

At $207.09 per person, this tour presents a good value, considering it packs multiple experiences into one trip. The itinerary covers historic town insights, scenic mountain rides, a sled dog adventure, and puppy cuddles, all guided by knowledgeable staff. The inclusion of round-trip transportation simplifies logistics, making it easier for visitors without private transport.

The tour runs for about three hours and 30 minutes, which is quite efficient given the variety of activities. It’s suitable for most travelers, provided they can walk about 100 yards and are comfortable with some standing or climbing—most people with a moderate level of mobility will find it accessible.

What the Reviews Say

The majority of feedback is glowing, with a 4.9 out of 5 rating from over 200 reviews. Visitors praise the “great scenery,” “friendly guides,” and “amazing dogs.” Many mention that the experience rekindles childhood memories of sledding, and several note how much they appreciated the expert explanations during the Kennel Talk.

One guest pointed out that the ride could be longer, wishing for more time on the sled. Others loved the added stops in town, allowing for quick shopping or a quick walk back to the ship—an appreciated touch for cruise passengers.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour accommodates up to 24 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience without feeling crowded. The transportation is included, starting from a convenient downtown meeting point, and operates in good weather. If the weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund—a sensible policy given Alaska’s unpredictable climate.

Considerations

While most find it accessible, participants should be able to walk about 100 yards and raise their knee 12 inches for a few steps. The sled ride itself is brief, so don’t expect a long, strenuous sledging session. Also, the price might seem high if you’re only interested in the sled ride, but considering the full experience—including the town tour and puppy time—it offers good overall value.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is especially perfect for animal lovers and families who want a hands-on, friendly encounter with sled dogs and puppies. It’s also great for those who enjoy scenic drives and outdoor adventures but prefer a structured, guided outing. The educational component makes it suitable for curious travelers eager to learn more about sled dog life, while the short duration and round-trip transport appeal to cruise visitors with limited time.

If you’re after a deeper wilderness experience with long rides or intense physical activity, this might not satisfy that craving. But for those seeking a balanced, authentic taste of Alaskan sled dog culture with plenty of cute moments, this tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQ

How long is the sled dog ride?
The sled ride lasts about 20 minutes, providing an exhilarating yet concise experience behind a team of eager huskies.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most ages are welcome, and it’s a family-friendly activity. Participants should be able to walk 100 yards and manage a few steps, but overall, it’s accessible for many children.

What does the tour include?
It includes a scenic town tour, a ride in a Unimog vehicle, the sled dog ride, a Kennel Talk with experts, and time with husky puppies. Food, drinks, and gratuities are extra.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers suitable for outdoor activities, especially if the weather turns chilly or windy at higher elevations. Closed shoes and comfortable clothing are recommended.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How large are the groups?
Groups are limited to 24 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

To sum it up, this Sled Dog Adventure in Skagway combines the thrill of a mountain ride with the charm of sled dogs and puppies, all wrapped in friendly, knowledgeable guidance. It’s a well-structured, engaging tour that offers excellent value for those wanting a genuine taste of Alaska’s outdoor, animal-centered culture. Whether you’re an avid dog lover, a curious traveler, or a family seeking a fun day out, this experience delivers on authenticity, scenery, and heartwarming moments. Just be prepared for a short ride, but know that every minute is filled with joy, learning, and furry cuddles.