Dog Sledding Adventures

Dog sledding in Alaska represents one of the most profound intersections of human-animal partnerships in North American history. Far more than just a mode of transportation, it embodies cultural traditions, survival techniques, and a way of life that has evolved over thousands of years.

Indigenous Origins

Dog sledding (or mushing) originated with indigenous peoples of the Arctic regions, particularly the Inupiaq, Yup'ik, Athabascan, and other Alaska Native groups. Archaeological evidence suggests dogs were used for pulling sleds in these regions for at least 3,000 years.

For these communities, dog teams were essential for survival and allowed them to hunt, trap, gather resources, and maintain connections between remote settlements, especially during the harsh Arctic winters.

The Golden Age of Mushing

Dog sledding evolved rapidly in the early 20th century, becoming a practical and widely adopted mode of travel for Alaska’s growing settler communities. Many consider this period the golden age of mushing, when tradition met necessity across a changing frontier.

• Mail routes: The famous "mail mushers" delivered correspondence and news to isolated communities.

• Gold rush transportation: Dog teams moved people, supplies, and gold throughout Alaska.

• Medical transport: Most famously demonstrated in the 1925 "Great Race of Mercy" (Serum Run) when dog teams relayed diphtheria medication to the City of Nome, saving the town from an epidemic!

Dog Sledding in Alaska Today

Today, dog sledding lives on through the annual Iditarod Sled Dog Race. The race is a way for people to celebrate and preserve the traditions of mushing in Alaska, and the event draws huge crowds each year. While the official race happens further north, the Mat-Su Valley hosts an 11-mile route known as the Iditarod Restart. This is a chance for people to get a good view of the action and see the power, prowess, and joy of the dogs involved.

Fancy getting to grips with mushing? Try your hand at dog sledding yourself under personal guidance from the Mat-Su Valley’s many experts.

Beyond Winter

Even when the thick Alaskan snow has melted, there’s still plenty of mushing action to be had. Many dog sledding tour companies still practice and train their dogs year-round. Specially adapted sleds with wheels can be used on dirt trails during the summer months! Join a tour through the lush green wilderness, appreciating the speed and agility of these highly-trained athlete dogs. 

If you’re more interested in learning how it all works (and meeting the dogs up close), consider one of the Mat-Su regions many kennel tours. Enjoy a meet and greet with the adult mushing stars, cuddle time with the puppies (yes, up-and-coming athletes!), and exciting tales from the trail from seasoned racers and Iditarod champions.