Sled Dog Ride and Scenic Drive from Anchorage
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Travel north of Anchorage through the MatSu Valley with great scenery to the mushing capital of the world and go for a sled dog ride! In Willow, AK, you’ll experience a real Iditarod musher’s home kennel and learn all about the amazing and friendly canine athletes. Then go for an exhilarating overland sled dog ride powered by a team of authentic Alaska Huskies! Learn all about the sport of mushing, the world famous 1000 mile Iditarod Sled Dog Race and its history, while getting to pet some friendly fluffy Alaska huskies; you’ll go for a dog-powered ride in a specially designed 2-person cart with your own personal musher. This 5+ hour (depending on group size) adventure will be one you won’t forget. Approximately 1.5 hour drive each way with 1.5 hours at the kennel. (Wheeled carts are used in the summer and sleds are used in the winter when there is sufficient snow on the ground.)
Available options
Sled Dog Ride and Scenic Drive from Anchorage
What's included
Sled Dog Ride
Bottled water
Snacks
Landing and facility fees
Air-conditioned vehicle
Kennel Tour
Interaction with Alaska Husky dogs
2 person mushing carts (sleds in winter) with personal musher
Commercially Licensed Driver Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Drive along the scenic Chugach Mountains on the Glenn Highway north of Anchorage towards the MatSu Valley. Look out for moose!
2
Drive through the Palmer Hay Flats and keep an eye out for moose. Enjoy the spectacular juxtaposition of the Chugach & Talkeetna Mountains rising out of the flat coastal plains.
3
On our way to the kennel for the Dog Sled Ride, we will drive through Wasilla, AK. Famous for something other than what you might think; learn about this quirky town in the MatSu Valley as we drive through it.
4
Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes north of Anchorage, we will arrive into the tiny town of Willow - known as the mushing capital of the world. We will head to a local Iditarod musher's home kennel!
5
We will spend 1.5 hours at the home kennel of Matthew Failor - Kuskokwim 300 champion and top 10 finisher in the world famous 1000 mile Iditarod Sled Dog Race! You will go for an exhilarating 20-30 minute overland sled dog ride in specially designed 2-person carts powered by authentic Alaska Huskies and with your own personal musher! Enjoy an in-depth kennel tour spent with the dogs while learning all about mushing - Alaska's official state sport.
What's not included
Outdoor clothing
Driver gratuity
Musher gratuity
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
4 reviews
5★
3
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Not recommended for travelers who are unable climb into a vehicle without assistance or unable to walk short distances
Meeting point
Be ready for pickup 10 minutes before your tour on the 7th Avenue sidewalk in front of the Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center in downtown Anchorage. Please use the restroom before arriving to the pickup point.
About Anchorage
Anchorage is a vibrant city nestled in the heart of Alaska, offering a unique blend of urban amenities and breathtaking natural beauty. Known as the 'City of Lights and Flowers,' it serves as the perfect gateway to the vast wilderness of the Last Frontier, with easy access to stunning landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor adventures.
Top Attractions
Tony Knowles Coastal Trail
A scenic 11-mile trail that offers stunning views of the Cook Inlet, wildlife, and the Chugach Mountains. Perfect for walking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
Nature
2-4 hours
Free
Anchorage Museum
A premier cultural and historical museum showcasing Alaska's art, history, and indigenous cultures. Features a large collection of Alaska Native art and contemporary exhibits.
Museum
2-3 hours
$20 for adults, discounts available
Chugach State Park
A vast state park offering hiking, wildlife viewing, and stunning alpine scenery. Features over 495,000 acres of wilderness just minutes from downtown Anchorage.
Nature
Half-day to full day
Free
Alaska Native Heritage Center
A cultural center dedicated to preserving and sharing the traditions, history, and art of Alaska's indigenous peoples. Features live performances, cultural demonstrations, and exhibits.
Cultural
2-3 hours
$25 for adults, discounts available
Flattop Mountain
A popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of Anchorage and the surrounding mountains. A moderate hike that is accessible year-round.
Adventure
2-3 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Salmon
Fresh, wild-caught salmon is a staple of Alaskan cuisine, often grilled, smoked, or baked.
Main Dish
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, but not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
King Crab
Alaska is famous for its king crab, which is typically steamed or grilled and served with butter.
Main Dish
Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Reindeer Sausage
A unique Alaskan specialty made from reindeer meat, often served as sausage or in stews.
Main Dish
Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Baked Alaska
A classic dessert featuring layers of ice cream and cake, topped with meringue and torched.
Dessert
Contains dairy and gluten.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Skiing
Wildlife viewing
Kayaking
Dog sledding
Spa treatments
Scenic drives
Picnicking
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season in Anchorage, offering the warmest weather and the longest daylight hours, known as the 'Midnight Sun.' This is the best time for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and exploring the city's attractions.
10°C to 20°C
50°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Tagalog, Other indigenous languages
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Alaska Time Zone (AKT, UTC-9)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Anchorage is generally safe for travelers, with low violent crime rates. However, petty crime and theft can occur, especially in tourist areas. Exercise common sense and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you
- • Use reputable tour operators
Getting there
By air
- Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport • 12 km from city center
By bus
Downtown Anchorage Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The People Mover bus system is affordable and efficient, with routes covering most of the city. Buses are well-maintained and punctual.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Anchorage
South Anchorage
West Anchorage
Midtown Anchorage
Day trips
Chugach National Forest
20 km from Anchorage • Half-day to full day
A vast national forest offering stunning alpine scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Girdwood and Alyeska Resort
40 km from Anchorage • Full day
A scenic mountain town and ski resort offering year-round outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and the famous Alyeska Tram.
Whittier
80 km from Anchorage • Full day
A small town accessible by tunnel, offering stunning coastal scenery, wildlife viewing, and the start of the famous Prince William Sound cruise.
Festivals
Anchorage Fur Rendezvous • February
Midnight Sun Festival • June
Anchorage Market and Festival • May to September
Pro tips
- Visit the Anchorage Museum for a comprehensive overview of Alaska's history and culture
- Take a scenic flightseeing tour to fully appreciate the beauty of Alaska's landscapes
- Go wildlife viewing in the early morning or late evening for the best chances of spotting animals
- Pack layers of clothing, as the weather in Anchorage can be unpredictable and change rapidly
- Try local Alaskan cuisine, such as fresh seafood, wild game, and reindeer sausage
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
