Jackson Hole: Dogsledding Tour with Hot Chocolate

If you’re looking to add a touch of adventure to your Jackson Hole trip, a dogsledding experience at Heart Six Ranch offers an authentic winter outing. For around $225 per person, you’ll enjoy a roughly one-hour ride through snow-covered private trails along the Buffalo Fork River, with breathtaking views of the Grand Teton Mountains looming in the background. Guided by seasoned mushers, this tour promises a chance to connect with nature, learn about the working dogs, and finish with a comforting cup of hot chocolate.

What we love most about this tour is how rich the experience feels — from the friendly, well-trained dogs to the panoramic landscape that seems to stretch on forever. Plus, the option to learn how to drive the dogsled makes it engaging for those who want a hands-on adventure. On the other hand, since the actual sled ride lasts about 45 minutes, it’s a great choice for travelers who want a memorable but time-efficient experience. This tour particularly suits families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone craving a scenic winter activity that combines fun, education, and a cozy finish.

Key Points

• Authentic dog sledding guided by experienced mushers
• Stunning views of the Grand Tetons and Buffalo Valley
• Wildlife sightings including Elk, Moose, and Bald Eagles
• Small group size (limited to 10 participants) for personalized attention
• Warm hot chocolate at the end enhances the cozy experience
• Secluded trails on protected land, away from motorized traffic

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Wyoming Adventure

When we first arrive at Heart Six Ranch in Moran, about 40 minutes from Jackson, we immediately sense the peacefulness of the surroundings. The private trails are a real highlight — they’re carefully maintained, flat, and free of motorized interference, offering a safe and scenic environment for all ages. The ranch’s location along the Buffalo Fork River provides grand vistas of the Grand Tetons, making every moment visually rewarding.

The guides—such as Nick and Tayler—are clearly passionate and knowledgeable. Several reviews highlight their warmth and expertise: “Nick was awesome, very knowledgeable, and wonderful with the dogs,” one traveler notes, while another mentions, “Tayler was an amazing guide AND musher! He taught us a lot about the dogs and it was truly amazing to see the relationship he shares with them.” Their enthusiasm and patience elevate the experience from simple sightseeing to storytelling and education, which adds a lot of value.

The Dog Sled Ride Experience

Once suited up in warm sled bags, we’re ready for the main event. The team of highly trained sled dogs eagerly pulls us along the snow-covered trails, led by a professional musher. The ride itself lasts about 45 minutes—long enough to soak in the panoramic views and the quiet beauty of winter wilderness. The flat, safe trail makes it suitable for pretty much everyone, including children, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and friendly.

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. One quote from a recent guest sums it up: “Taylor was kind, loving with the dogs, and very accommodating.” Visitors often remark on the close bond between the mushers and their dogs, which adds authenticity and charm to the adventure.

If you’re interested in more than just riding, the guide can teach you how to drive the dog sled, which many find to be a fun and rewarding challenge. It’s a rare opportunity for travelers to get hands-on experience in this traditional form of transportation.

Wildlife and Scenic Highlights

Beyond the dogsledding itself, the tour offers the chance to spot local wildlife. With patience, you might see Elk, Moose, Bison, Eagles, and even Bears in their natural habitat. Several reviews mention how spectacular the views are, with guests often overwhelmed by the stunning mountain backdrop and the serene snow-covered landscape.

One traveler expressed, “Getting to pet all the dogs afterward was fantastic,” emphasizing the personal connection that develops during the tour. The wildlife sightings and the peaceful environment are integral parts of why this activity feels more authentic and compelling than many commercial winter attractions.

The Cozy Finish: Hot Chocolate

The tour concludes at the Buffalo Valley Cafe, where you can enjoy a steaming cup of hot chocolate. This simple touch makes the experience feel complete—a rejuvenating way to warm up after the chilly ride. Several reviews mention how welcoming and friendly the ranch staff are, and that the hot chocolate is a perfect reward.

Notably, one reviewer humorously noted, “We was not offered hot chocolate lol,” but generally, this cozy ending is much appreciated, especially on a cold winter day.

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Logistics and Practical Tips

The tour includes all necessary dog sledding equipment, making it hassle-free for first-timers. Hotel pickup and drop-off are available for an additional fee—call the ranch to coordinate transport, which costs about $40 per person for round-trip service.

The meeting point is at Heart Six Ranch in Moran, with a small group size limited to 10 people ensuring an intimate experience. The tour runs usually in the morning or afternoon, and reservation is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later. Since the trail is flat and safe, it’s suitable for all ages, but pregnant women are advised not to participate.

To ensure comfort, dress in weather-appropriate clothing, as you’ll be exposed to the winter elements. The guides emphasize that no motorized traffic uses the trail, which helps preserve the tranquility and natural beauty.

Authentic Reviews and Experiences

Guests consistently praise the guides’ knowledge, with one stating, “He answered all our questions and clearly loved his job,” adding authenticity and warmth. The views garner many compliments, with travelers describing the landscape as “spectacular” and “truly incredible.” Several mention how friendly and caring the staff is, making the experience welcoming and memorable.

Many reviews highlight the value—considering the length of the ride and the personalized attention, most agree it’s a worthwhile splurge for a special winter outing. And for those who want a photo opportunity, guides are often happy to take pictures, ensuring you come away with lifelong memories.

The Sum Up

This dog sledding tour at Heart Six Ranch offers a well-rounded, authentic Wyoming adventure. It combines scenic beauty, wildlife encounters, expert guidance, and a cozy finish with hot chocolate. The small-group size ensures a personalized experience, and the knowledgeable guides make it both fun and educational. While the ride lasts about 45 minutes, the memories and photos will last a lifetime.

Ideal for families, wildlife lovers, or anyone eager for a genuine winter experience in the stunning surroundings of Jackson Hole. It’s a perfect choice if you value authenticity and expert guidance over commercialized attractions, and the opportunity to learn about the dogs adds a special touch.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included but can be arranged for an additional fee of about $40 per person. You’ll need to call the ranch to set this up.

How long does the dog sledding last?
The actual ride lasts approximately 45 minutes, which provides a good balance of adventure and scenic relaxation.

Can children participate?
Yes, the trail is very flat and safe, making it suitable for all ages. However, pregnant women are advised not to join.

What should I wear?
Dress in weather-appropriate clothing, including warm layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof outerwear to stay comfortable during the ride.

What is included in the tour?
All necessary dog sledding equipment, hot chocolate, and the guided experience are included. Transportation can be arranged separately.

Is the experience suitable for those who want to learn to drive the sled?
Yes, guides can teach you how to drive the dogsled if requested, adding an interactive element to your adventure.

In summary, this tour offers a genuine look at dog sledding in a stunning, natural setting—an excellent choice for travelers who want a mix of scenery, wildlife, and authentic connection with the dogs and guides. Whether you’re a winter sport enthusiast or a first-timer, it’s a memorable way to experience Wyoming’s rugged beauty, topped off with a warm cup of hot chocolate.

You can check availability for your dates here: