The sound of enthusiastic sled dogs, fresh snow under the sled, and miles of winter landscape before you: dog sledding in Canada is one of the most special ways to experience winter.
The activity has a long history in northern regions and is currently offered as a guided winter experience at various destinations.
From a short trek through snowy forests to longer treks through remote areas: there are various possibilities.
In dog sledding, a sled is pulled by a team of specially trained dogs.
The driver of the sled is called a musher.
During tourist excursions, an experienced musher guides the tour, or you first receive an explanation of how controlling a dog team works.
Long before snowmobiles and modern roads existed, sleds were an important way to transport people and goods through snowy areas.
Especially in northern regions, this was a practical means of transport.
Nowadays, dog sledding is primarily offered as a recreational winter activity and as a sport.
British Columbia is an accessible choice when you want to combine dog sledding with winter sports.
For example, various winter excursions are offered around Whistler.
This makes a dog sledding trip a great addition to a stay in Whistler.
Yukon offers a completely different experience.
Here, the landscape consists of vast forests, mountains, and open areas.
Additionally, you can combine dog sledding with watching the Northern Lights.
Also the Northwest Territories lend themselves well to northern winter activities.
Around Yellowknife, you can combine a dog sledding tour with aurora excursions.
An excursion usually begins with an explanation about the dogs, the sled, and safety.
After that, you learn how the team works together.
Depending on the excursion:
A short excursion can last a few hours. There are also longer tours available.
As a passenger, you need little experience.
When you help steer the sled yourself, it becomes more physical.
You stand at the back of the sled for extended periods and sometimes have to help when the terrain slopes upwards.
The provider can indicate in advance which fitness level is required.
The season depends on snow and temperature.
The winter months are naturally the most suitable.
In northern areas, the winter season can last longer than in more southerly regions.
Always check before departure whether an excursion is actually taking place.
The care of the dogs is important.
When choosing an excursion, pay attention to, for example:
A professional provider is usually open about this.
During a sled ride, you move less than while skiing. As a result, you cool down faster.
Therefore, wear sufficient warm layers.
Consider:
A sled ride can easily be made part of a longer winter trip.
Combine it with, for example:
In British Columbia, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories, among others.
No. No experience is needed for most tourist excursions.
On some excursions, yes. You will receive instructions first.
This varies by destination and depends on sufficient snow.
Yes. Yukon and the Northwest Territories are particularly suitable for this.
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