Dogsled and Reindeer Day Trip to Borealis Basecamp

Experience the Arctic’s Charm with the Dogsled and Reindeer Day Trip to Borealis Basecamp

If you’re heading to Fairbanks and looking to truly connect with Alaska’s winter traditions, the Dogsled and Reindeer Day Trip to Borealis Basecamp offers a balanced mix of adventure, education, and scenic beauty. For about $274.80 per person, this 8-hour tour takes you north on the legendary Elliott Highway into the heart of the Boreal Forest, where you’ll meet one of the most iconic symbols of Arctic life: sled dogs and reindeer.

What we love most about this experience is how it showcases the genuine bond between mushers and their dogs. With personal guides who treat their teams like family, you’ll get a real sense of the sport’s passion. Plus, the chance to interact with the reindeer, feed them, and learn about their life in the Arctic is surprisingly enriching. On the flip side, some travelers mention that the timing can feel a little long or rushed, especially if waiting times aren’t clearly communicated.

This tour suits those who want a hands-on, authentic experience rather than a quick photo op. If you’re curious about dog mushing, Arctic wildlife, or simply seeking a memorable winter outing that combines activity with scenic calm, this trip will likely hit the spot.

Key Points

• Authentic Arctic Experience: Meet real mushers and their dogs, learn about their work, and enjoy a scenic sled ride.
• Wildlife Interaction: Feed, pet, and take photos of friendly reindeer housed at the Basecamp.
• Convenient Logistics: Includes hotel pickup, comfortable transportation, and on-site amenities.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines active outdoor fun with relaxing meals and optional activities.
• Authentic Local Focus: Tours are operated by passionate, experienced guides with a focus on local traditions.
• Value for Money: Though priced at $274.80, many reviews highlight the quality of the guides, scenery, and the genuine nature of the experience.

A Deep Dive into the Borealis Basecamp Experience

What to Expect from the Tour

From the moment we booked, it’s clear that this trip is designed to be both informative and enjoyable. The morning pickup from your hotel starts the journey, taking roughly 45 minutes along the Elliott Highway. During the ride, you get a taste of Alaska’s expansive, snowy wilderness, with panoramic views that are bound to impress.

Once at Borealis Basecamp, the activity begins with a one-hour dogsled ride. This isn’t a quick photo stop—it’s a genuine sledding experience with a team of eight dogs swinging through the snow-covered forest at a pace that’s comfortable but lively enough to get your heart racing. You can choose to sit or stand, depending on your preference, which adds a layer of flexibility to the adventure.

The Dogsled Ride: More Than Just a Ride

What makes this dogsled ride special is the personal connection the mushers foster with their dogs. We loved the way guides like Laura, named in reviews as being very friendly and informative, shared stories about their dogs and the sport. It’s clear the dogs are well-cared-for and loved, as one review enthusiastically notes, “The sled dogs are obviously well cared for, and you can tell they love to run.”

Some guests mention that the ride is about 30 minutes, which is enough to feel the thrill without it becoming too exhausting. Several reviews praise the professionalism of the operation, describing the operation as “highly professional, experienced, and friendly.” A guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm make the experience come alive—expect to learn about the history of dog mushing, the training process, and how these teams are crucial in remote Alaskan communities.

Reindeer Encounters: A Rare Close-Up

The reindeer meet and greet is a delightful bonus. The tour guides, like Rory, introduce you to the herd, which is Alaskan-born and housed at the basecamp all year round. We appreciated the chance to feed and pet these gentle animals—something not all Arctic tours include.

The walk with the reindeer takes around 40 minutes, with limited but meaningful interaction. Reviewers describe it as “absolutely gorgeous,” and many mention how feeding the reindeer made the experience memorable. However, some note that expectations should be realistic—this isn’t a reindeer safari but a peaceful, educational walk.

Food, Relaxation, and Additional Activities

Lunch at Latitude 65, the on-site restaurant, is included and offers a selection of hot and cold sandwiches, noodle dishes, and soups—perfect for warming up after outdoor activities. Several guests have praised the quality and variety of the food, describing it as “yummy” and a great way to fuel up for the rest of the day.

The Basecamp also offers complimentary activities like fat-tire biking, tubing, and nature walks, providing extra ways to enjoy the landscape at your own pace. These options are ideal if you’re eager to extend your Alaska adventure without additional cost.

Logistics and Value

While most reviewers appreciate the well-organized logistics, some mention that waiting times—particularly for the dogsled ride—can be longer than expected, sometimes leading to feelings of impatience. It appears that some guests find the price a bit steep considering the duration and the activity scope, especially if they were expecting a longer sled ride or more reindeer interaction.

However, the quality of guides, the authenticity of the experience, and the stunning scenery seem to balance out the cost for many. The small group size (max 10 guests) allows for a more personalized experience, and the hotel pickup makes logistics hassle-free.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who crave a genuine, hands-on Arctic experience. If you’re interested in learning from passionate guides, interacting with animals, and enjoying scenic winter landscapes, this is a strong choice. It’s also ideal for families, as kids often love meeting the reindeer and playing with the sled dogs.

Those looking for a fast-paced, high-energy adventure might find it a bit subdued, especially if expecting longer rides or more reindeer time. Likewise, travelers who want an extremely budget-friendly option could feel the cost is on the higher side given the duration, but many feel the quality and authenticity justify the price.

The Sum Up

In essence, the Dogsled and Reindeer Day Trip to Borealis Basecamp offers a well-rounded taste of Alaskan winter culture. It combines authentic dog mushing, close encounters with reindeer, and stunning natural scenery, all wrapped in a comfortable, well-organized package. The guides’ knowledge and warmth shine through, making it clear that this isn’t just a tourist attraction but a celebration of local Arctic life.

This trip best suits those who want a meaningful connection with Alaska’s landscape and wildlife, with an emphasis on learning and interacting. It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone eager to experience the true spirit of the North without the need for extreme activity levels or long treks.

If you appreciate authentic stories, caring guides, and beautiful scenery, this adventure might just be the highlight of your Fairbanks visit. With the right expectations, you’ll leave with memories that capture the quiet majesty and friendly spirit of Alaska’s winter world.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including transportation, activities, and lunch.

What’s included in the tour price?
Your tour includes hotel pickup, a 1-hour dogsled ride, a 30-minute reindeer meet and greet, and lunch at Latitude 65.

Is the dogsled ride suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and you can choose to sit or stand on the sled. The ride lasts around 30 minutes, offering a comfortable but exhilarating experience.

Can I feed or pet the reindeer?
Yes, you’ll have the chance to feed, pet, and take photos of the reindeer. The walk is about 40 minutes, and interaction is encouraged.

Are there additional activities available at Borealis Basecamp?
Yes, you can enjoy free activities like fat-tire biking, tubing, and nature walks if time permits.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

This day trip is a great way to experience Alaska’s winter traditions firsthand—if you’re prepared for some waiting and appreciate authentic animal encounters, it’s well worth the price.