Sled Dog Ride and Scenic Drive from Anchorage

Sled Dog Ride and Scenic Drive from Anchorage: An Authentic Alaska Experience

This tour takes you north of Anchorage through the scenic MatSu Valley, offering a compelling mix of breathtaking landscapes and genuine Alaska traditions. For $269 per person, you’ll spend about five hours immersed in the world of mushing, visiting a real Iditarod husky kennel and riding in a specially designed dog sled cart. With pickup included and a mobile ticket, it’s a well-organized way to combine sightseeing and adventure, perfect for those eager to experience Alaska’s iconic dog sled culture.

What we really appreciate about this trip are the authentic insights into mushing provided by the guides, as well as the stunning scenery along the route—think towering mountains, wide-open plains, and the chance to spot moose. Two highlights stand out: the opportunity to meet friendly Alaskan huskies up close and the thrill of a personal dog sled ride that makes you feel like a true Alaskan musher.

A possible consideration is the drive time—about 1.5 hours each way—so it’s worth setting expectations for a full, but comfortable, day out. This tour suits anyone who’s curious about Alaska’s wilderness, loves animals, or is looking for a unique outdoor experience that combines scenery with active fun.

Key Points

• Authentic mushing experience with a real Iditarod musher’s kennel visit
• Stunning views of the Chugach Mountains and MatSu Valley, ideal for photography and nature lovers
• Personalized dog sled ride in a two-person cart, driven by a professional musher
• Educational aspect about the history and sport of mushing and the Iditarod race
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning and door-to-door pickup
• Limited group size (max 12), ensuring a more personal experience

Exploring the Route: Scenic Drive and What You’ll See

The tour kicks off early with a comfortable pickup in Anchorage, setting the tone for a day filled with awe-inspiring vistas. As we head north along the Glenn Highway, the scenery quickly shifts from cityscape to wilderness. The drive through the Chugach Mountains offers panoramic views, with potential moose sightings adding a touch of wildlife excitement. We loved the way the mountains seem to rise dramatically from the plains, creating a perfect backdrop for photos.

Passing through the Palmer Hay Flats, you’ll notice the flat coastal plains contrasted by the towering Talkeetna Mountains. The landscape here showcases Alaska’s diverse terrain, from broad wetlands to rugged peaks. Driving through Wasilla gives a quirky glimpse into local life, with some stories about the town’s unique character. This part of the journey feels like a true window into Alaskan rural life.

Arrival at the Kennel: Meeting the Huskies and Learning About Mushing

About an hour and 15 minutes into the drive, we arrived at the home kennel of Matthew Failor, a notable Kuskokwim 300 champion and top Iditarod finisher. The setting is intimate and welcoming, giving us a chance to see Alaska Huskies in their element. The guide, whose name we’ll mention later, was both knowledgeable and enthusiastic, sharing stories about each dog’s personality and history.

The kennel tour lasts about 1.5 hours and includes plenty of opportunities to pet and interact with the friendly dogs. We loved learning about the training routines, the importance of teamwork, and the role these dogs play in Alaska’s culture. Our guide explained why Huskies are uniquely suited for sledding—powerful, resilient, and incredibly friendly—making for a memorable up-close experience.

The Dog Sled Ride: An Adrenaline-Pumping Adventure

The highlight is the 20-30 minute sled ride in specially designed 2-person carts. You’ll ride behind a professional musher, who expertly guides the team of genuine Alaska Huskies. The ride is exhilarating yet smooth, giving you a taste of what it’s like to be behind the wheel—minus the harsh cold of winter.

Many reviews mention how enthusiastic and knowledgeable the guides are, adding depth and humor to the experience. We loved the chance to pet the dogs afterward and hear about their personalities. The ride itself offers fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and plains, making it more than just a fun activity—it’s a window into a traditional sport that’s deeply ingrained in Alaskan life.

The Return Trip: Scenic Views and Wildlife Sightings

On the way back, the scenery remains stunning. We enjoyed catching a few more glimpses of moose grazing in the wetlands and snapping pictures of the mountains at sunset. The entire drive is a reminder of Alaska’s vastness and natural beauty, making this tour a truly immersive experience.

The tour concludes back at the starting point in Anchorage, after a full day of adventure and learning. The comfort of air-conditioned transportation helps wind down after the outdoor activities, and the guides’ insights make the journey both educational and entertaining.

Practical Details and Value

At $269, this tour offers a comprehensive experience—combining scenic drives, kennel visits, and a memorable dog sled ride. The small group size (up to 12 participants) ensures personalized attention, and the inclusion of snacks, bottled water, and all fees makes it a convenient option.

While the price might seem high, you’re paying for authenticity—a real kennel visit, guided insights, and a hands-on sled ride that you can’t easily replicate elsewhere. For anyone curious about Alaska’s sled dog culture or wanting a fun outdoor adventure, this is a solid choice.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves wildlife, mountain scenery, and outdoor adventures, you’ll appreciate the variety packed into this tour. It suits families, adventure travelers, and animal enthusiasts alike. Because of the moderate walking and vehicle transfer, it’s accessible for most travelers who can handle short distances and climbing into a vehicle. However, those with limited mobility might find some aspects challenging.

This tour is ideal if you’re looking for a day trip that offers both education and excitement, giving you a genuine taste of Alaska’s dog mushing tradition while enjoying some of the state’s most iconic views.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The price covers transportation, kennel tour, sled dog ride, interaction with huskies, snacks, bottled water, and all facility fees.

How long is the drive each way?
The drive is approximately 1.5 hours each way, providing ample time for sightseeing and enjoying the scenery.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but those unable to climb into vehicles or walk short distances should consider their comfort level. The experience generally appeals to families and curious travelers.

What should I bring?
Outdoor clothing is not included—dress warmly and in layers, especially if you plan to spend time petting dogs outdoors.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is this a winter-only activity?
While the tour provides a winter experience, it also operates in warmer months with the sled ride in a cart, not snow.

What kind of dogs will I meet?
Authentic Alaska Huskies, known for their friendly nature and sledding prowess, are the stars of this tour.

Do I get to pet the dogs?
Absolutely—pets and interactions are encouraged during the kennel visit and after the ride.

Is there any prior experience needed?
No, the activity is designed for all levels, with guided instruction and assistance provided.

The Sum Up

This Sled Dog Ride and Scenic Drive from Anchorage offers a rare blend of Alaska scenery, cultural insight, and outdoor adventure. It’s a great way to connect with the state’s dog mushing heritage, see stunning landscapes, and enjoy some genuine animal encounters. The personalized guide and small group size ensure a memorable, educational experience without feeling rushed or commercialized.

Perfect for families, outdoor lovers, or those simply eager to try something truly Alaskan, this tour balances adventure and authenticity. While it does involve a fair drive, the sights and experiences along the way make every mile worth it. If you’re after a unique, hands-on day that combines scenery with culture, this is an excellent choice.

Whether you’re a dog lover, wilderness seeker, or curious traveler, this tour will leave you with stories to tell and memories of Alaska’s wild spirit.