dog sled excursion alaska

Juneau & Skagway Alaska

Helicopter & dog sledding tour.

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Alaskan summer adventure, our helicopter-based icefield and glacier dog sledding tour whisks you from the dock to the glacier with  maximum comfort and safety..

Take a scenic flightseeing tour before you land at our dog sledding camp on the glacier. Once settled, you’ll meet our Alaskan Husky sled dog teams and their professional mushers and dog handlers.  You will then ride on a dog sled (in the middle of summer!) and get the opportunity to drive the dog sled while capturing photographs to remember for years!

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Helicopter & Dog Sledding Adventure

Our helicopter-based ice-field and glacier dog sledding tour whisks you from the dock to the glacier with the maximum comfort and safety..

Experience the thrill of glacier flight-seeing prior to landing at our dog-sledding camp. Meet our Alaskan Huskies sled dog teams along with their professional mushers and dog handlers. After learning about the dogs, it’s time for a ride on the dogsled! Opportunities to drive the dog sled on the glacier and capture unforgettable photos are around every glacier turn!

Please join us this Summer for glacier dog-sledding and spectacular flight seeing in either Juneau or Skagway.

limited availability & spaces fill quickly

Want The Dogs But Not The Flight?

Are you a dog lover looking for an unforgettable adventure? If so, you must visit our sister company, Gold Rush Dog Tours. They offer the ultimate dog sledding experience without the glacier flightseeing tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can i bring, when should i make my reservation, how do i book, how do i get there, what should i wear, what our customers are saying, exhilarating helicopter ride, definite “must do”, amazing & inforative, just like the movies, get in touch, send us a message, call us: (523) 486-3562.

SUMMER DOGSLEDDING ADVENTURES

Help train iditarod champion sled dogs, there will not be snow on the ground in alaska from june to october, but there are two great ways you can experience dogsledding. you can fly in a helicopter to a glacier and mush on snow or ride on a wheeled sled at the racing kennel., click on a date to see availability.

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CancellaTioN Policy:

For tours purchased directly through ididaride.com* : Tours cancelled more than 72 hours prior to originally scheduled departure time will be refunded in full. Cancellations within 72 hours are subject to a 25% cancellation fee, and tours cancelled within 24 hours of departure (or no-shows) will be charged the full cost of the tour and any taxes/fees. You may change your tour time or date at any point without charge provided there is space available.

*Tours booked through third party websites may be subject to different cancellation policies.

Summer tOurs: May-September

Wilderness Dog Sled Ride & Tour

Location: Seward, AK Duration: 1.5 Hours

Adults $99 | Children $49.5

4 Departures Daily

May 9 - Mid September

Real Alaska Day Tour

Location: Seward, AK Duration: 6 Hours

Adults $189 | Children $94.50

Works with Alaska Railroad Arrival and Departure Times

Late May - Mid September

Glacier Heli-MushiNg

Location: Girdwood (Alyeska), AK

Duration: 1.75 Hours

Adults $579 | Children $529

5 Departures Daily

May - August

Helicopter Flightseeing with Glacier Dogsled Tour

A classic Alaskan adventure and our most popular tour!

Mush your own sled-dog team on a glacial snow field surrounded by towering mountains.

Start this dogsled adventure with a helicopter flight along the Chugach Mountain Range and its several glaciers as we make our way to the giant Knik Glacier. Look down on the glacially fed Lake George with its massive icebergs rolling over in the glacial water. Unlike most glaciated areas the Chugach Mountains offer abundant wildlife like moose, Dall sheep and black bears.

Land on a high glacial snow field and enjoy a whole hour with Alaskan Husky sled dogs and their seasoned mushers. Meet the canine athletes that will pull your sled, listen to stories about running sled dog races across the Alaskan wilderness, and of course take pictures with your favorite pups! Take the dog team out for an exhilarating dogsled ride across the snow field amid towering peaks. You can stand on the runners and mush your own dog team if you want, or just sit on the sled and let the mushers run the team as you take in the ride. The length of this tour makes it perfect for the whole family and we often see three generations having fun together. There are fantastic photo opportunities throughout this tour experience. Enjoy the scenic helicopter flight with bird’s eye views of blue melt pools and the crevasses as you make your way back to the lodge heli-base.

Make this the ultimate multi-activity adventure by adding on a glacier landing en-route back to the lodge. A glacier landing provides 30-minutes of time on the glacier to explore the azure blue melt pools and bizarre ice formations with your pilot guide.

Tour Highlights

• Total tour time: 1:30 hour (2-hours with additional glacier landing)
• Flight time: 30-minutes
• Time at Glacier Dog Camp: 1-hour
• Gear Provided: Overboots (keeping foot wear dry)
• Departure Location: Knik River Lodge Heli-Base
• Transportation: Round trip or One-way transfers to/from Anchorage are available
• Dates of operation: May 12 – September 1

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Heli Hiking & Photography Tour

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Alaska Glacier Dogsledding plus Lower Glacier Landing

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Alaska Glacier Tours 600 Barrow Street, Suite 300 Anchorage, Alaska 99501 1-877-745-4575

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Toll free: (877) 745-4575 or (907) 745-5002

Overnight Accommodations

Book your Cabin Here!

The Alaska Dogstead sits on 160 acres near Big Lake, an hour from Anchorage in the Matanuska-Susitna Valley. It's here that Team Petit lives and trains year-round for the iconic Iditarod and other shorter, mid-distance dogsled races. Join us for a kennel and mushing tour summer or winter - We'd love to introduce you to our champion athletes and show you what mushing is all about!

Extend your time at the Dogstead and cozy up in one of our 3 spacious and fully-furnished yurts. Each yurt sleeps up to 5 people, has a small kitchenette, gas heater & wood stove, plus a bathroom with toilet and running water. You may even be visited by Libby and Beamer, our retiree Welcoming Committee, who roam around after-hours soliciting head scratches from our guests.

Visit the Dogstead

Meet, pet, and harness our Alaskan huskies - cart rides in the summer AND dogsled rides all winter!

Kennel & Mushing Tour

Stay in one of our luxury yurts while enjoying the serenity of rustic backcountry Alaska.

Nightly Yurt Rentals

Sport the Dogstead/Team Petit spirit. From hoodies, t-shirts, hats and stickers, there are many ways to support us!

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YOUR ADVENTURE STARTS HERE

DOG SLEDDING IN FAIRBANKS

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 2 hours , 4-5 hours
• Clock Tour Schedules: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm | 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm | 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm | 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Dog Mushing Adventure in Fairbanks, Alaska

Join us for a beautiful Alaskan activity unlinking you for a few hours to experience the mesmerizing world of the true Interior Alaskan dog mushing lifestyle and winter wilderness!

This prime, small-group, intimate Alaskan dog mushing tour takes you into the real Alaskan dog sledding world with its mesmerizing nature and wilderness, away from the crowds and busy life. Only a 45min drive away down the Parks Highway,  one of the most scenic and best maintained winter roadways in Alaska. You get to meet the newborn puppies and world-class lead dogs, and experience the authentic dog mushing culture and passion of training and selecting race dogs for the Iditarod or Yukon Quest here in our Nenana-based Alaskan husky kennel just south of Fairbanks, Alaska.

See world-class Alaskan husky race sled dog teams perform. Learn to ride with them in or behind the sled. This dog sled tour gets you deeper into the authentic Alaskan dog mushing lifestyle in Fairbanks, the capital of dog sledding in Alaska.

• Chevron down Included
• Additional Arctic gear (jackets, pants, gloves, hats)
• 60-75min dog sled ride
• Kennel experience (meet puppies/huskies, photo ops, safety briefing, etc.)
• Complimentary coffee, snacks
• Chevron down Not Included

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Dogsledding in Alaska: Where to Do it in Winter and in Summer

Published: october 19, 2023.

Home » Travel Tips » Dogsledding in Alaska: Where to Do it in Winter and in Summer

The thrill experienced on a dogsledding ride is almost indescribable . This exciting experience uniquely encompasses the joy of bonding with your team of furry and fast sled dogs, together with learning how to guide them and your sled with the help of a professional musher. Dogsledding packs in the thrills for participants of all ages. Whether seated in a sled or standing on the sled’s runners, you’ll race across snowy trails in Alaska’s outdoors pulled by a team of dogs that were born to run. This is an authentic Alaska adventure, being an important part of the state’s Alaska Native cultural past and continues to be an entertaining part of its present.

Fairbanks dogsledding

For Alaska visitors, dogsledding is also practically a mandatory must-do excursion. Many who hope to try out dogsledding are surprised that they can take these journeys year-round – yes, even in the summer. While dogsledding in the winter is the image most conjure up when daydreaming about hitting the trail, dogsledding in the summer elevates the experience to another level, as rides can take place on glaciers and in off-season sled dog training areas.

All of that said, simply visiting a sled dog kennel is a treat in its own right. Many dog sledding experiences include a tour of famous mushers’ dog yards. This is where the puppies live and grow up and where their owners train dog teams as well as prep their sleds and gear. Visitors quickly learn what the Alaskan musher lifestyle is like: a lot of work, not a lot of glory. But these are passionate, and sometimes peculiar, people who love working with their dogs as much as their dogs love to pull their sleds and run.

Summer Dogsledding Fun in Alaska  

Since most Alaska travelers prefer visiting during the summer, mushers make sure that they can offer an exciting dogsledding experience even under the Midnight Sun. Whether on a sled with wheels or taking helicopter rides up to icy glaciers for more traditional sled rides, summer dogsledding excursions are well worth the time and dollars.

Glacier Dogsledding at Alaska Glacier Lodge, Palmer

There are a range of helicopter and small planes trips that deliver passengers to dogsled teams waiting in snowy places even in the summer. These dogsledding trips, most of which begin out of Anchorage , are among the summer’s most popular ventures – there’s truly nothing quite like it. Helicopter pilots guide you on a scenic ride to a snow-covered mountain pass or glacier, where you meet your sled dog team and friendly musher-guides stand ready to take visitors on the ride of their lives. You’ll cruise across the snowy landscapes while basking in the warm summer sun. What a way to redefine the definition of summer! There are also dogsledding day tours of out Seward , Girdwood and from the beautiful base of Alaska Glacier Lodge , outside of Palmer which also offers transfers from Anchorage.

Of course, you don’t have to fly across the sky to meet and ride with sled dogs in the summer. A number of famous Alaska mushers offer summer kennel tours and dog time, including trips on wheeled carts pulled by their teams as part of the teams’ summer training. Iditarod champion Mitch Seavey, one of a family of Iditarod regulars and contenders, hosts on of the most popular tours out of his Seward kennel.

Iditarod kennel visit and sled dog ride in Seward.

Winter Dogsledding Tours in Alaska

Come winter, the options for dogsledding expand as many of the most popular tours take place in and near Alaska’s top two tourism areas: Anchorage and Fairbanks. In the winter, mushing enthusiasts can get transferred to a nearby dog kennel and experience the real thing – sledding on snow!

Out of Anchorage, doggie day trips include a drive north to Talkeetna to visit an Iditarod champion sled dog kennel. Visitors become part of the team, harnessing the dogs before setting out on a 10-kilometer (6-mile) self-drive mini expedition. Guests traveling in teams of two each share a traditional sled and a small dog team of 4-7 Alaskan huskies. Experienced mushers guide and support their visitors, providing safety, comfort, and photo opportunities with each dog team. Your visit is packed with other special moments on the trail and around the kennel, and includes a delicious meal in tranquil Talkeetna.

Our Fairbanks winter dog sledding trip promises a day of fun. Before hitting the trails, sled dog kennel owners and their handlers introduce visitors to their livestyles in the Interior region of Alaska and give them a tour of their kennel, and an introduction to their dogs. They also provide a quick course on commanding a team and traversing the trails before taking off on your dogsledding fun. There is also plenty of time to snuggle up to and take pictures with the dogs after your ride.

And not to be forgotten, for true dogsledding enthusiasts, there’s the Iditarod race in early March.

If your dogsledding is a “must do” on your Alaska trip, don’t worry about the season or location: there’s a “doggone” good time waiting for you and Alaska Tours can help you partner up the pups and hit the trails . So “mush on”!

Dogsledding at sunrise in Alaska

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Dogsledding Trips in Healy, AK

VIEW OUR NEW WEBSITE with Dogsled Tour Rates

We have a number of different dogsled adventures planned in and around Denali National Park. Below are some of our lodging ‘s usual trips, but all trips can be modified, and we encourage people to customize trips to their individual desires/needs.  Our dog sledding specific website has more details and great photos of the trips we offer.

Day trips are $140-395 per person for 1-4 hour trip. We run our dog sled tours for varied amounts of time:

November 1-2 hours December and January 1-4 hours February 3-4 hours March 4 hours

1 hour—$140/person 2 hour—$230/person 3 hour—$315/person 4 hour—$395/person

OVERNIGHT DOG SLEDDING TRIPS

Dog Sled Tour in front of Yanert Glacier Dog teams and guests from Texas and Wisconsin in front of an ice wall at the terminus of the Yanert Glacier

Dog Sled Expedition Support and Logistics Denali Dog Sled Expeditions is pairing up with a local Bed and Breakfast in Healy to offer complete service and support for guests participating in our sledding trips. Denali Dome Home BB is a long-established B&B in Healy, owned and operated by Anne and Terry Miller. This service will reduce logistics, and in many cases, extra costs, for out-of-state visitors. All you will need to do is arrive at the Fairbanks Airport, and leave the rest to us. No rental cars, driving on icy roads in the dark, and wondering where to stay while in the big city. The cost of this service varies depending upon the group size and arrival time, so when inquiring about a dog trip, we can give you the options. Denali Dome Home BB is a separate business, and services rendered by them are not included in the dog sled expedition price The addition of your stay at Denali Dome Home will be an enjoyable addition to your wilderness adventure with EarthSong. If any of the trips do not fit your needs, please contact us , and we will design one for you.

See our Website for more on Alaska Dogsledding Vacations

Alaska dog sledding new year’s dog sledding special.

How are you ringing in your New Year? On the beach somewhere, Times Square, another loud crowded party? Do something unique for this special day, and ring in the New Year in a backcountry cabin with sled dogs, in the wilderness of Alaska. Denali Dog Sled Expeditions is offering one special New Years package, at a discounted rate. Book this trip for four people for three days. You will go through a day trip/training day on December 30, learning to drive a sled with our excellent guides and happy dogs. Then we’ll mush you to a cabin on Sushana River Cabin, to spend New Years Eve and ring in 2024. Food and gear is included (alcohol is not, but we will carry it for you!). Some additional costs for lodging and transportation at the beginning and end of the trip. We can add more people for an additional rate. Do something you will remember for the rest of your life! Contact Jon now to reserve. If this trip isn’t exactly right for you, we can set something else up, just let us know.

Cabin to Cabin Dog Sled Trips!

Denali Dog Sled Expeditions and EarthSong Lodge are now authorized to use all the backcountry hut system and some other cabins exclusively. This change allows us to offer trips up to ten days where every night is spend in a warm, comfortable backcountry cabin instead of camping. More space and comfort allows for a more enjoyable and safer trip, and each cabin is in a unique location. Cabins are available for dog sled passenger trips and cross-country ski-support trips.

Sushana River Trip – 3 Days

This is the perfect introduction to dog sledding in the Denali Wilderness area. The first day is spent at EarthSong Lodge, as an orientation and training day, with a short day trip on the sleds. The next two days you drive your own dog team to a backcountry cabin on the Sushana River, traveling along the historic Stampede Trail on the park’s northern boundary. The trip is for those who want a short adventure, driving their own sled and learning the art of dog mushing. (discount for early season trips – December and January)Alaska Dogsled Tour Rates: $2930/person

Sushana River Cabin trip-4 Days

AK Dog Sled ToursOur Dog sled trips can take you in the shadow of Mt. McKinley (Denali) This trip is similar to the Sushana River trip, but adds an extra night at the cabin. On the second day, we will take a day trip west into the Park.   Tour Rates:  $3940/person

Stampede Trail 5 Cabin Trip – 5 Days

For the guests who are uncertain about winter camping, but want a more in-depth experience than the Sushana River trip, we offer a trip out the park north boundary along the historic Stampede Mining Trail. This trip is similar to the Sushana River trip, but goes another 20 miles further west into the Denali Wilderness, where we stay at a heated tent camp near the Toklat River. These two extra days afford guests closer views of Mt. McKinley, along with entering into an area of high wolf concentration. This trip is offered January through early April.  Tour Rate:  $5015/person

Toklat River Loop – 8 Days

The Toklat River Loop has been one of the most popular trips in our guiding history. After an orientation day at the lodge, we travel west along the Stampede Trail and the park north boundary taking the same route as the 5 Day Stampede trip to the Lower Toklat River. . The middle of the trip route is up the Toklat River, into the Denali Wilderness, to the park interior. The return follows the Park Road Corridor east to Denali National Park headquarters, where the trip ends. This adventure gives an excellent mix of open tundra, river bars, mountains, and passes. It also poses some exciting sledding challenges. The Toklat Loop is for people in good to excellent condition, as it has some moderately difficult sledding situations, and elevation gains that require physical activity. It also offers two days of day trips off the main route. The usual day excursions are to the summit of Stony Hill, for an exceptional view of Denali, and a trip up a glacier valley to one of the smaller glaciers descending from the Alaska Range. The flexibility allows us to go where the sledding is best. All nights except one in backcountry cabins/huts. (This trip offered mid-February – early April).  Tour Rate:  8070/person

Denali Wilderness Expedition – 10 Days

This 10 day trip is the longest we usually offer, and will take you on a grand tour through Denali National Park.  The specific route varies from year to year, depending upon the snow and trail conditions.  Some areas we usually visit are the Clearwater Fork that takes you the back way to Wonder Lake, Wonder Lake itself, McGonnagal Pass and the Muldrow Glacier, the Kantishna Mining District, and sometimes the South Side of the Alaska Range.  We feel this trip, no matter the itinerary, is the finest dog sledding expedition adventure offered anywhere.  Usually only one 10-day trip is offered each season.  The trip may also include flying one way to or from the Kantishna Airstrip, which includes a scenic flight over the park.  Tour Rate:  $9995/person

Wonder Lake Fly-out Expedition – 8 Days

Our newest popular trip, this is a one-way seven day trip through the park to Wonder Lake with a flight out by bush plane from the Kantishna Airstrip to Healy. Some trips go the opposite direction, flying in and mushing out.” Put this in as an alternate for the first sentence.   This trip allows for guests to get farther into the heart of the park, spend more time at Wonder Lake near Mt. McKinley, and not spend the usual 10 days.  The price of the trip varies, and the basic rate plus airfare applies if another trip can be set up going the opposite direction.  This trip option is popular with returning guests who are looking to see more of the park, but don’t have 10 or more days to do it.  (Trip offered March).  Tour Rate:  $8070/person

Custom Trips

The trips listed above are our most popular trips over the years, but we are able to customize trips for your expedition. We can easily add a day or two for guests wishing to spend more time around a cabin for exploring and photography, and adding a day can slow the trip down for people who don’t want to go straight from cabin to cabin. We can also mix mushing with a day or so of skiing or snowshoeing. For returning guests, some trips can go into wilderness outside the park (Yanert River Valley) or on the South Side of Denali National Park.

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Skagway Dog Sledding & Glacier Flightseeing Helicopter Tour

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• Things to know
• Reviews (85)

Excursion Overview

An epic excursion you do not want to miss.

Combine your helicopter flightseeing tour with Alaska's favorite sport - dogsledding. Whether it's the thrill of driving a sled, playing with puppies, flying through breathtaking scenery, or getting to be a part of the largest sub-arctic dogsled camp operation in the world, this excursion is for you! Depending on which pier you're coming from in Skagway, a 5~30 minute walk brings you to the heliport where, following a safety video, you are outfitted with glacier boots that go over your footwear and loaded onto the helicopter. Once airborne, soar over stunning glaciers and snowfields, before landing at the Skagway dog sledding camp situated on the Denver Glacier. Leave your aircraft behind to become acquainted with the world of 'mushing' and dogsledding. You have the option to either stand on the sled and help mush or relax in the sled and observe the breathtaking environment around you. A truly authentic Alaskan adventure, this Skagway dog sledding outing enables you to meet the professional mushers and their friendly sled dogs that have made the Iditarod dog race famous.

Reporting Accurate Weights

Please report proper weights of all guests (including the weight of clothes and boots). Inputting improper weights, or selecting the wrong passenger type can lead to cancellation without refund. Please be aware that every guest is individually weighed at the helicopter base.

Things You Need to Know

Inclusions:.

• Headsets to listen to the narration by your pilot
• Traction overboots

Requirements:

• Guests must be comfortable walking short distances on uneven and occasionally icy surfaces
• Guests weighing 250 lbs or more, with all clothing and camera, are required to pay an additional surcharge for safety reasons - extra space will be reserved on the helicopter
• Infants under 2 years old are free and do not require a ticket - please indicate that you are traveling with an infant during checkout
• Guests are not able to stay on the helicopter at the glacier

Duration: 2 hours (Roundtrip from downtown Skagway.)

• 30 minutes - preflight safety briefing and preparation
• 30 minutes - glacier flightseeing via helicopter
• 60 minutes - at the dog camp with approximately 30 minutes of dogsledding

Meeting Instructions:

• This tour meets at the helicopter base, a 5~30 minute walk from your cruise ship, depending on which pier you are coming from. An optional shuttle, the Skagway Municipal and Regional Transit (SMART Bus) is available to take guests to/from the docks to the helicopter base for an additional fee on the day of the tour. Fully detailed instructions are included on your finalized ticket vouchers.

ADA Accessibility of Tour:

• This tour is not wheelchair or limited mobility accessible.

Refund Policy:

• You may cancel for any reason up to seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund.
• Please see our Refund Policy Page for complete details.

Tours can be canceled for any reason up until seven (7) days prior to the date of the tour for a full refund unless otherwise noted on the individual tour product page in the Things to Know section. To cancel a tour, please use the cancelation request link within your e-ticket that was emailed to you OR send an email to  [email protected] with the following information:

- Order number

- Tour you are canceling

- Number of passengers you wish to cancel

Within 0-7 days before the tour date, cancelations are eligible for a full refund only in the following scenarios:

- The tour is canceled by the tour operator for any reason (for example: bad weather or mechanical issue)

- You experience a medical emergency during this window and can provide documentation (documentation must be submitted within 30 days to receive a refund)

- Your ship changes port itineraries causing you to miss an excursion

All refunds are processed through Alaska Shore Excursions, and will not be processed through any cruise line or local tour provider. Refunds will appear under Alaska Shore Excursions on your bank/credit card statement. Credit card refunds are processed within 10 business days of the request. Exceptions to the refund policy include multi-day packages and some day tours. Please refer to the specific refund policy listed on the individual tour product page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the dogs love human interaction and the mushers will let you get close and snuggly with their team.

You will be given the opportunity to run the sled with your musher if you wish.

Each sled can accommodate 4 guests.

There is a maximum of 6 passengers per helicopter. If there are more than 6 passengers, multiple helicopters will fly at the same time and land at the dog camp together.

There are two front seats and four rear seats; FAA safety guidelines require seating positions to be assigned based on the weight and balance of all passengers for each helicopter.

The average temperature is between 15-20°F cooler than on the ground

Wildlife is abundant in Southeast Alaska and sightings are possible on any tour, however, this is not a designated wildlife tour and sightings are not guaranteed.

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children under 2 can ride for free on an adult's lap.

All bags must be stored at the helicopter base and are not allowed on tour.

Yes, you can bring your DSLR camera on this tour.

Food and drink are not allowed during this tour.

Food and drink are not provided while on tour.

Adult and child prices are the same for this tour. There is no charge for infants under 2 years old and they will be required to ride on a guardian's lap.

Guests must be comfortable walking short distances on uneven and occasionally icy surfaces.

Layered clothing, hats, gloves, and sunglasses are strongly recommended.

There are restroom facilities at the helicopter base before you depart on your tour, but there are no restrooms available on the glacier.

Check out other frequently asked questions  here !

Guest Reviews

On aug 2023.

Was the highlight of our Alaskan vacation!! Can't recommend enough!!

Fantastic! From the professionalism of the helicopter pilots, Jeremy, our affable and awesome musher, and those loveable sled dogs, this was the trip of a lifetime. We had two grandkids with us, age 5 and 7. Not sure who enjoyed it more, us or them!

While all of the employees were great, I rated it two stars as too much time was spent on taking pictures with the dogs and talking, rather than actual dog sledding. Did not have value for the price paid.

On Jul 2023

I wish everyone could experience this excursion. Trust me, it is worth the money. The helicopter ride up to the base camp gave spectacular views and once we arrived, the musher's brought us over to their pack of dogs. We were able to pet and love on each one. Seeing their excitement as they or other packs began to get chained up for the ride was amazing. They LOVE what they do and were born for that. I'm a dog lover and you can tell these dogs are well take care of and to witness their passion and excitement to take us for a ride was pure joy and exhilarating. Each person gets a chance to stand up and lead the dogs. Well, honestly the musher is doing the leading :) but to stand up and pretend was a blast. If you're torn between excursions, choose this once in a lifetime experience!

• Reviews Showing: 85

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Duration: 2 hours

Date Required

Time Required

# of Passengers Required

Under 250 lbs.

Passenger (Ages 2+): $ 659.00

250lbs+ Passenger: $ 809.00

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Dog Sledding & Travel in Alaska

• Lisbet Norris

What to Expect When Dog Sledding in Alaska

Updated: Dec 11, 2023

Dog sledding is an iconic Alaskan experience that should be on everyone's bucket list! Silently flying through snowy landscapes, dog sledding provides an exhilarating experience that few other activities can match. As you are considering or preparing for a dog sledding experience, you likely have many questions. In this post, we will break it all down to help you know what to expect before going dog sledding in Alaska.

When & Where to Go Dog Sledding in Alaska

Dog sledding in its truest form requires snow. This means that it's best to experience dog sledding in the winter (yes, all the snow does melt in Alaska in the summer, with the exception of tall mountains and glaciers) so plan your trip between mid-November and early April for the best snow conditions.

If you're northern lights hunting, learn more about When to See the Northern Lights in Alaska here.

Alaska is home to many mushing and dog sledding outfitters, making it easy to find one that fits your needs. You'll likely want to book a tour with an experienced guide as this will provide you with the best experience out on the trails as well as ensure that ethical dog sledding practices are observed. Check out our complete list of All the Places You Can Go Dog Sledding in Alaska here.

What Does it Cost to Go Dog Sledding?

The price of dog sledding in Alaska can vary greatly, depending on your destination, duration of the trip, time of year, and additional services included. Other factors that may impact the cost are the level of service provided by the tour company, their commitment to sustainability initiatives, and the quality of care provided to the dogs. Below are some quick examples to give you an idea on pricing.

½ Day Tours

Duration: 30 minutes to 4 hours

Price Range: From $89 to $140 per person for self-driven sled rides to the kennel, up to $550 per person for helicopter access dog sledding with lunch.

Full-Day Tours

Duration: 4 to 10 hours

Price Range: Starting from $500 per person

Cabin and Lodge-based Multi Day Dog Sled Tours

Duration: 2 to 10 days

Price Range: $2,799 for a 2-day stay at rustic cabins to $18,000 per person for a 5-6 day luxury lodge experience accessed by small plane.

Read more about the Cost of Going Dog Sledding in Alaska here.

Do you tip for dog sledding?

Yes. Tips are expected. If you think your guides did a great job, a tip of 10-20% of the trip price is standard in the outdoor guiding industry (and very much appreciated). You can either tip the lead guide, who will split the tips, or individually Venmo or pay cash to your guides.

What to Wear When Dog Sledding in Alaska

We get it — Alaska in the winter can seem intimidating — so we wrote a whole post about What to Wear Dog Sledding in Alaska . It covers common questions about dressing for dog sledding, offers you some local tips and tricks, AND includes our ultimate packing list for dog sledding in Alaska!

What is it like to ride on a Dog Sled?

Dog sledding offers a unique way to explore the winter wilderness in Alaska. Dog sleds can carry 1-2 passengers, depending on the size of the sled, the number of dogs on the team and the terrain. If you are doing a sled ride, you will be seated facing forward in the sled’s basket and your guide will stand on the back. The basket usually has padded seating, but little back support. If you are doing a 'drive your own dog team' experience, you will be standing on the back of the sled, on the runners. If you sign up for a “tag sled” experience, you will be towed behind the lead musher on a separate second sled, or stand behind the lead guide with your own handlebar on extra long runners.

Is dog sledding bumpy?

While dog sledding may seem bumpy as you travel over snow, it's surprisingly smooth - for the most part. The smoothness really depends on the terrain. If you're sledding on groomed trails, it will be very smooth. If you're mushing along a snowmobile track it can be more bumpy. It's not usually bumpy enough to make you fall off though!

Is dog sledding scary?

Being afraid is very subjective and is dependent on your personal past experiences. If you're scared of dogs, don't have proper cold weather gear, or are afraid of going 10 miles per hour, then yes, dog sledding could be scary. We wouldn't recommend doing a dog sledding experience if you're very afraid of dogs.

If you like dogs, winter, and going faster than walking, then no, dog sledding isn't scary.

How fast can sled dogs run?

Sled dogs can run at speeds of up to 10-20 miles per hour, meaning you can cover several miles on your sledding adventure. Sled dogs are swift, strong, and experienced at traversing snowy terrain, making them the ideal winter travel method. Most dog sled tour operators are running their dogs at speeds of 6-8 miles per hour on average.

How physically demanding is dog sledding?

Dog sledding can be physically demanding, particularly if you have opted to drive your own dog team. There may be times when you need to help the dogs by getting off the sled and pushing up a hill or walk through deep snow. Most people who opt to drive their own dog team find the hardest part is bending over to hold onto and harness the dogs. It does take some arm and core strength to hang onto a wiggly dog.

How fit should you be to go dog sledding?

To enjoy a dog sled ride, you do not need to be very fit. You should be able to get down on the ground and back up again, sit upright and ensure your arms and legs stay in the sled for the duration of the ride.

To enjoy driving your own dog team, you'll want to be able to walk through deep snow, bend over comfortably, be able to stand on the runners of the sled for an hour or so at a time, lift the sled back upright if it tips over, and walk or jog with the sled to help the dogs up hills. You are responsible for keeping your sled on the trail and maintaining the speed the guide sets.

The biggest concern for driving your own team on a multi day trip in more technical terrain is your ability to take a hard fall. A technical trail will likely have you tipping over, dragging, or worse case: having your sled slip out from under you, slamming your body onto ice. You need to be strong enough to hold onto a tipped-over sled until the dogs stop (this is for the safety of the dogs).

Is there a weight limit for dog sledding?

There are a few factors such as the sleds payload capacity, number of dogs and conditions to consider so max weight can vary by kennel.

At our kennel, we set our max guest weight at 250 lbs to drive their own dog team. We will make exceptions for very fit persons. This is because we run only 4-6 dogs per team and our trails are more technical than a day tour.

Can I bring my kids dog sledding?

Yes, most kennels allow kids to go dog mushing. Shorter tours like 2 hour tours are best for kids since they usually have to ride in the basket and can get cold if they are not moving or prepared with proper cold weather gear.

On long tours, young kids may not be able to go so always check with the tour provider. Here is more about bringing kids on Arctic Dog Adventure Co trips.

What are the sled dogs like?

What kinds of sled dogs are used in dog sledding.

Depends where you go sledding, but some common breeds used for dog sledding are;

Siberian Huskies (the Best, in our not-so-humble opinion)

Alaskan Malamutes (the strongest)

Alaskan Huskies (the most popular - can also be used for competitive racing)

Greenland/Inuit Dogs (used most commonly in Northern Canada and Greenland)

To learn more about Sled Dog Breeds, check out the American Kennel Club.

Why are sled dogs tied up?

You'll often see sled dogs chained to dog houses or otherwise tied out and not inside kennels or dog runs. This is because sled dogs, huskies especially, are notorious escape artists!

The method of outdoor dog management varies by kennel and is subject to personal preferences, the dogs' personalities, and the acreage available. There are pros and cons to each style of housing for dogs. At our kennel, we've stuck with the 'chained to the dog house' method because it is the safest for our dogs. Siberian Huskies will dig, tear and fight their way out of kennels and hurt themselves, as well as potentially run away and get hit by a car, trapped by a trapper, or killed by wildlife. When they are tethered, they are secure and less likely to hurt themselves or run away. It is also a very social way to keep dogs, as they are able to interact with their neighbors, while also having their own private, safe space to retreat to.

Do sled dogs get tired?

Yes, of course, they do. Sled dogs are endurance athletes, but like all animals, they do get tired. It's important to set a steady pace for the teams of sled dogs so they don't overdo it. This is why, when you go dog sledding, there will always be a guide in the front, to set the pace for the group.

If you take a longer trip, such as a multi-day hut-to-hut tour , we take rest breaks and the dogs get meat snacks and dog food to stay fueled. The dogs get to sleep 10-12 hours each night and we set a steady trotting pace for the whole trip so they can jog comfortably for 4-6 hours each day.

How long can sled dogs go without stopping?

In our opinion, sled dogs shouldn't go more than a couple of hours without a break. Just like people or horses, they need to stop and rest when out for a big day. Pulling sleds loaded with people and overnight gear is hard work! But a highly trained and well conditioned long distance racing dog sled team is easily able to travel 100 miles in a day.

Are sled dogs aggressive?

Sled dogs are not typically aggressive creatures. They are highly social and responsive to pack dynamics (of which their musher is the “alpha”). Sled dogs are extremely people oriented and do not have the protective instincts of say, a German Shepherd Dog. They are typically well socialized with different types of people and trained to be friendly and gentle. Also, they're used to being handled by people, so it's rare to see a sled dog display aggressive behaviour towards humans. That being said, huskies can have very high prey drives and may not be safe around small children (which they may not recognize as human – as anyone who has had a toddler can probably commiserate with). But seriously, never trust huskies (or any dog for that matter) around small children.

Do sled dogs fight each other?

Just like groups of people, there is always someone who's a troublemaker or two dogs who do not like each other. So yes, sled dogs can fight but it's usually not a problem at professional kennels, where measures are taken to prevent such interactions. Dogs who are professionally trained are socialized with other dogs and people to ensure the safety of everyone.

In conclusion, dog sledding is a unique and exhilarating experience that allows you to connect with nature on a completely different level. From knowing the nitty-gritty of dog sledding to understanding the behavior of sled dogs, professional kennels ensure the highest standards of safety and enjoyment for everyone involved.

Just remember, no matter your fitness level, there's a sledding experience to suit you, and the sled dogs are always ready to make your journey a memorable one!

Is there anything we missed regarding what to expect while dog sledding in Alaska?

Comment below and share your questions with us.

Related Posts

What to Wear Dog Sledding - Clothing, Tips and FAQs

Dog Sledding in Alaska - Explore All the Places You Can Go!

When is the Best Time to Go Dog Sledding in Alaska?

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Guide To Alaska Dog Sledding

Read the first-timer’s guide to Alaska dog sledding. What you need to know to have an unforgettable adventure on Alaska dog sledding excursions.

The First Timer’s Guide To Alaska Dog Sledding

Hike! Gee! Haw! Frosted fir trees whip past, snow flies in your face as you command a powerful, well-coordinated sled dog team. Not only a sport and state obsession, Alaska dog sledding has a long history that goes back centuries when dogs were used by nomadic Native Alaskans to pull sleds full of supplies. It evolved into personal transportation, mail delivery and rescue assistance.

Get ready for an amazing adventure with this first-timer’s guide to Alaska dog sledding.

Alaska Dog Sledding Excursions

Alaska dog sledding excursions vary. Options include playing with pups at a musher’s camp or gliding over a glacier’s icy surface, happy canines leading the way. Find and reserve all  Alaska excursions , including dog sledding.

You can find dog sledding in  Juneau ,  Skagway  and near  Denali . In summer, expect to ride on dry ground in a custom wheeled sled, not on snow, unless sledding on a glacier. No matter the terrain, the tails will be wagging, the air will be brisk and the views spectacular.

Pay close attention during the orientation to learn commands and safety tips. If you’re not comfortable driving the sled, ride in the “basket.”

What To Wear Dog Sledding

It’s the one thing on every  Alaska packing list  and no, it’s not mittens. Wear removable layers.  Alaska’s weather  changes fast, sometimes multiple times in a day. Prepare to spend at least a few hours outside with the dogs.

If you’re going to dog sled on a glacier, put on warmer clothes. Wear wool socks, a comfy mid-layer, a waterproof parka and gloves. Gear such as glacier boots will be provided.

National Iditarod Historic Trail

Take an easy stroll from the port in  Seward  to mile zero of the National Iditarod Historic Trail, marked with a monument. The Iditarod is most famous for the heroic serum run of 1925 when dog teams ran life-saving serum to Nome and saved the tiny town from an epidemic. But the Iditarod’s history in Alaska goes back further. It was regularly used by Native Alaskans to travel to remote villages and later on, to deliver provisions to miners and settlements.

In the 1970s, the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race began. It was a way to preserve dog mushing culture during the rise of the “iron dog” (snowmobiles). Depending on your dog sledding excursion, Iditarod veterans will regale harrowing tales of past races. You’re in for quite the treat.

Book your dog sledding excursion early. Dog sledding is one of the most popular activities on  Alaska cruises .

VIEW ALL ALASKA CRUISE TIPS, TRAVEL ARTICLE & VIDEOS

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Best cruise ports for dog sledding in Alaska 🏔 Juneau or Skagway?! 🏔 (Princess excursions) 🏔 Alaska cruise travel blog

One of the most epic so-very-Alaska shore excursions you can do during your Alaska cruise is dog sledding on SNOW!

It’s important to emphasize the SNOW part, because there are also dog sledding tours in the summer that are not on snow.

I am sure doing a dog sledding tour without snow will still be memorable, but for the ultimate Alaska dog sledding experience, you need to do a dog sledding tour on snow!

And yes, you can do dog sledding in Alaska on snow even in the summer!

Dog sledding on snow in the summer means that you need to go up high in elevation to get to the snow.

And that means that you will be taking a helicopter to get there!

So you’ll also get the epic Alaska experience of seeing the mountains from the sky.

And you also get a helicopter landing on a glacier, because the dog sledding camp is set up on a snow-covered glacier!

Below I will show you a timeline of the dog sledding tour I did during my Alaska cruise!

What months can you do a dog sledding tour during an Alaska cruise?

The exact dates can change depending on the weather of any given year, but generally you can do dog sledding on snow from mid-May to early August.

The set-up of the dog camp on the glacier may be earlier or later depending on weather conditions.

If your Alaska cruise is in May or August, you may be able to do a dog sledding tour during your cruise.

If your Alaska cruise is in June or July, you can do a dog sledding tour during your cruise!

If your Alaska cruise is in April, September, or October, you won’t be able to do a glacier dog sledding tour in any of the cruise ports.

How long is a dog sledding tour?

A dog sledding tour in Alaska is around 2 hours long.

You’ll also want to plan for extra time before and after, maybe 15 to 30 minutes or so when your doing it as an excursion from a cruise port.

So you can think of a dog sledding tour as 2.5 to 3 hours long.

Cost of a dog sledding tour in Alaska

The cost of a dog sledding tour during your Alaska cruise will be around $700 to $800 per person.

Yes, dog sledding tours on SNOW are expensive!

There are cheaper dog sledding tours in the summer.

But if you find a $150 dog sledding tour in the summer, it’s not going to be on snow.

If you think you’ll like that too, then you can consider the “cheap” dog sledding tours in Alaska cruise ports too.

When you do enough research on the absolute best Alaska cruise excursions, a $150 tour starts to look cheap! 😆😵

If you want the epic Alaska experience, you need to do the dog sledding on snow!

Plus, you’ll not only get the dog sledding part, you’ll get an epic Alaska helicopter flightseeing tour to go with it!

So it’s like a 2 in 1!

Best cruise ports for dog sledding in Alaska

If you want to go dog sledding on SNOW during your Alaska cruise, then the best cruise ports for that are Skagway and Juneau !

If you’re doing a one-way cruise between Vancouver and Whittier or Seward and you’re spending a few days on land in Alaska, then you can also go dog sledding in Anchorage.

Is the best dog sledding in Juneau or Skagway?

Whether you go dog sledding in Juneau or Skagway, it will be one of the best experiences during your Alaska cruise.

Lame …

Really though!

Before my Alaska cruise, I read through tonssss of reviews for lots of different excursions on google maps and tripadvisor.

And really, the reviews for the expensive excursions in Alaska were overwhelmingly VERY good.

And that includes Alaska dog sledding reviews!

It seemed like any really expensive excursion had a number of people saying that it was the highlight of their Alaska cruise.

And again, that includes dog sledding reviews!

What does that mean?!

It means that if you make dog sledding your ONLY Alaska cruise excursion, then there’s a good chance it will end up being your favorite part of your Alaska cruise, whether that’s in Juneau or Skagway!

So instead of choosing a dog sledding tour based on the specific tour in Juneau or Skagway, it’s better to choose the cruise port based on your priorities of activities you want to do in Juneau and Skagway.

For example, during the Alaska cruise that I did the dog sledding, I ended up having a full day in Juneau with a morning excursion (whale watching) and afternoon excursion (Mendenhall Glacier Lake canoe + hike), while I had an open day in Skagway since I had previously done the White Pass train.

So I ended up doing a dog sledding tour in Skagway . (I go through what this tour is like below.)

But if you want to do a full-day White Pass railway excursion in Skagway, then you might want to do a dog sledding tour in Juneau. (There are also shorter White Pass excursions available.)

Best Alaska dog sledding Princess excursions:

• Juneau dog sledding excursion through Princess
• Skagway dog sledding excursion through Princess

You can book these shore excursions for your Princess cruise by logging into your account at princess.com > my account > manage this booking > excursions > view excursions for Juneau or Skagway! Book sooner rather than later!

Best dog sledding tours during an Alaska cruise:

• Juneau dog sledding tour / May 6 to August 13, 2023
• Skagway dog sledding tour / through August 17, 2023

If you’re on a one-way Alaska cruise and will be staying on land a few days before or after Whittier or Seward:

• Anchorage dog sledding tour / May 1 to September 10, 2023
• Seward dog sledding tour / through September 7, 2023

What do the negative reviews about dog sledding in Alaska say?

Based on my observation, the negative reviews were almost always related to cancellations.

The negative reviews about dog sledding were about the lack of communication about the tour cancellation, and no offer to replace it with an alternative tour.

Yes, there is a chance your dog sledding tour can get canceled.

Because you want to do a dog sledding tour on snow in summer, it means that you need to fly to the sled dog camp on a helicopter.

And weather conditions (aka flight conditions!) can change quickly.

Because of this, tours may not get canceled until an hour (or less!) before your scheduled tour time.

Of course, that is disappointing enough, but then what seems to happen sometimes is that tour companies do not communicate effectively with people about the cancellation. 

So the negative reviews are about what happens if you DON’T do the dog sledding tour.

But for people who DO do the dog sledding tours, there are rarely any negative reviews.

The vast majority are 5 star glowing reviews, no matter the tour company or how you book the tour.

That said, it is important to manage your expectations about potential cancellations.

Your dog sledding tour might get canceled due to weather.

This is Alaska.

Helicopter tours (aka helicopter tours with dog sledding too!) do get cancelled at the last minute.

Weather can change quickly in Alaska.

This means that so can helicopter flying conditions.

And a weather-related cancellation may not be made until very close to your tour time.

According to Temsco , a helicopter company that operates dog sledding tours in Alaska:

Unfortunately, the weather in Alaska does not always cooperate and there are times when we are unable to fly. If we are unable to fly a tour due to weather, our guests will receive a full refund. In most cases, we will not make the decision to cancel a tour until within an hour of departure, as the weather can quickly change and we do not want to preemptively cancel a tour if it is at all possible it will run. If we need to cancel due to weather or any unforeseen circumstance, you’ll receive a 100% refund.

It is standard among helicopter companies in Alaska to offer a full refund on your dog sledding tour if they cancel due to weather.

Plan for an alternate to dog sledding

Because it’s possible that your dog sledding excursion can be canceled, it’s best to know what you want to do in case that does happen.

Of course you want to hope for the best and that it doesn’t get canceled.

But unfortunately, it is a real possibility that it does get canceled.

And knowing this is step 1 in not being AS upset when it does get canceled.

It’s about managing your expectations!

So in the case that your dog sledding excursion gets canceled, which is an already upsetting situation, you don’t want to get further upset because you don’t know what to do.

You might end up just doing nothing because you don’t know what to do, and then you’ll end your day even more upset feeling like you’ve wasted a day in Alaska.

If your dog sledding excursion gets canceled, you might be offered alternate excursions.

But in case you are not, also research more things to do in Skagway and things to do in Juneau , just in case!

More below about my glacier sledding tour during my Alaska cruise!

• cruise luggage tags
• no-surge power strip
• basic binoculars for wildlife watching on glacier sea days
• cocktail dress for formal night
• Read the reviews and check availability for Pan Pacific Vancouver
• How to find your boarding time for a Princess cruise
• What is embarkation day like? Sample: Vancouver embarkation day
• Dinner food menu on my Alaska cruise

Dog sledding tour during an Alaska cruise

I did a dog sledding tour during an Alaska cruise in May 2023.

I booked a shore excursion through Princess.

I did it while in Skagway cruise port .

It was a dog sledding camp on Denver Glacier operated by Alaska Icefield Expeditions .

The helicopter to the dog sledding camp was operated by Temsco helicopters .

Your experience may vary!

Times listed below are approximate, based on the time stamp on my pictures!

The Alaska dog sledding tour timeline! 👇

4:45pm: helicopter safety video

Since I did a nearby Skagway hike right before the dog sledding tour, I just went straight to the helicopter base on my own.

The helicopter base was closer than going all the way back to the cruise port for the Princess excursion meeting spot.

Because I was already there, I watched the safety video at the helicopter base.

If you book an excursion through the cruise ship, you’ll get a free ride to the helicopter base. On the shuttle ride over, you’ll watch a safety video.

Once the group arrived at the helicopter base from the cruise port, we put on boots and helicopter safety gear.

The boots are provided, and go over your shoes.

The helicopter safety gear is a pouch with a life jacket that is tied around your waist. You’ll wear this during the whole tour.

If you brought a bag or backpack, there’s a luggage storage area.

You aren’t allowed to take any bags on the helicopter with you.

5:15pm: get on the helicopter and take off!

Then, it’s time to get on the helicopter!

You won’t be able to choose your helicopter seat.

Helicopter seats are assigned based on weight distribution.

You will be weighed in once you arrive at the helicopter base.

There is an additional fee for people weighing over a certain weight, usually 250 pounds. This will be indicated at the time of booking.

There were 4 people plus the pilot on the helicopter. 3 in the back, 1 up front next to the pilot.

My assigned seat was the back row on the left side.

Enjoy the helicopter flight!!!

Doing the dog sledding tour in Skagway cruise port, we could see the cruise port as we were flying away!

And then… come the real views of Alaska!!!

5:32pm: The dog sledding camp on the glacier comes into view!

Helicopter landing on a glacier! Take your first steps on an Alaska glacier!

The helicopter does a landing on a glacier and you will be dropped off at the sled dog camp.

You will immediately see (and hear!) all the dogs, and you’ll see the tents that the mushers sleep in too.

They stay overnight with the dogs on the glacier!

Introduction to the sled dogs who will be taking you for a ride… and the musher!

You’ll be divided up into groups to go with a dog sledding team.

I was paired up with another solo traveler, and it turned out to be just the 2 of us that made up our group.

We then met our musher (aka sled dog trainer aka Matt from Ohio) who then took us to meet his dogs.

We were given a little bit of time to make personal introductions to them. (aka you could go and pet and talk to each of the dogs on your own)

5:52pm: The sled dogs start their training! (aka they start pulling YOU to go dog sledding on the glacier!)

You can have the chance to stand at the back of the sled (one person) or sit in the sled!

I started off at the back of the sled. (We switched off later.)

Enjoy dog sledding in Alaska on a glacier!!!

5:56pm: First break.

You can get off the sled and walk around a little.

5:59pm: More sledding on a glacier!

6:01pm: Another break.

6:06pm: More sledding on an Alaska glacier!

This part was a bit downhill, and the co-musher (aka YOU?!) are given instructions on how to be a musher going downhill!

I was sitting in the front of the sled for this part, so this was not me on this part.

It seemed to be a pretty active position! Basically you needed to “tap the breaks” a bit.

6:13pm: Arrive back at camp!

6:35pm: Get back on the helicopter to go back to the cruise port!

Enjoy the flight back to the cruise port!

6:45pm: Arrive back at the helicopter base!

7:00pm: Arrive back at the cruise port

There was a free shuttle back to the cruise port.

Or rather, the spot to get a water shuttle to get back to the cruise ship since the cruise ship was docked at a spot that required a water shuttle. Not all cruise ships will need a shuttle in Skagway cruise port .

And that’s a bit about what a dog sledding tour in Alaska during your cruise might be like!

I did a dog sledding tour as a Princess shore excursion during my Alaska cruise on May 17, 2023. Your experience may vary!

HAPPY GLACIER DOG SLEDDING IN ALASKA!

• Best whale watching in Alaska
• Best dog sledding in Alaska (on a glacier, on snow, in summer!)
• Snorkeling in Alaska 😂
• Deadliest Catch tour (as seen on TV!)
• Juneau icefield seaplane + Taku Glacier Lodge salmon bake
• Nugget Falls in Tongass National Forest (Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area)
• Helicopter + glacier walk to see blue ice
• Klondike Highway to Fraser BC + White Pass summit train
• What I did on another Skagway cruise ship arrival: Dog sledding and Yakutania Point
• Totem Bight State Historical Park
• Misty Fjords National Monument Wilderness seaplane + wilderness landing
• Creek Street
• Icy Strait Point to Hoonah
• Sitka National Historical Park totem poles
• Things to do in Sitka
• What is it like: Glacier Bay National Park from a cruise ship
• This was not available on my early season cruise: Hubbard Glacier excursion (yes, you can get off the ship on a sea day! available until early September... if it's not already sold out!)
• Tips for first Princess cruise (getting familiar with Princess food + more!)
• Ideas for your first Alaska cruise

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In fundraising pitch, Iditarod planners say financial woes could jeopardize epic sled dog race

The future of the “Last Great Race” is uncertain, officials said in an appeal to supporters. The message comes at a time when major Iditarod sponsors have dropped out, and inflation has increased the cost of participation.

On Tuesday, race officials  emailed  fans to say one of the race’s key fundraisers, its winter raffle, isn’t getting typical levels of support. With five days before the draw, only about 60% of the tickets have sold.

The email suggested the race may not happen next year if the tickets do not sell out. “This may sound dramatic, but it is absolutely the unfortunate truth,” organizers wrote.

“Without this fundraiser and the sale of these tickets, we would not be able to put this race on each year,” they wrote.

This week the race was dealt another blow when a state legislative committee nixed a $1.4 million funding request that race officials said would have buoyed the struggling endeavor.

On Monday, Rep. Andy Josephson, D-Anchorage,  proposed  a $1.4 million grant from the state budget to the Iditarod Trail Committee, which operates the race.

“I thought it would be a popular amendment,” he said. “And I think it probably pencils out, in terms of economic gain to the state.”

“Who can vote no against the Iditarod?” said Rep. Dan Ortiz, I-Ketchikan.

Six members of the 11-person finance committee could — and did — vote no, and the amendment was defeated.

Rep. Will Stapp, R-Fairbanks, was one of the ‘no’ votes and said Tuesday that no one would say that the Iditarod isn’t important, but there are a significant number of budgetary unknowns facing lawmakers, and those must be addressed before considering a grant. He said there may be opportunities to add funding for the race later in the budget-writing process.

“There are many other bites at the apple,” he said.

Rep. Bryce Edgmon, I-Dillingham, said his no vote wasn’t a vote against the race itself.

“It was more along the lines of just being fiscally conservative. It’s an issue I don’t know a lot about. I’m very much a supporter of the Iditarod race and quite frankly would like to learn a little more about (the issue),” he said.

Race officials did not respond to a request for comment on Tuesday.

It has been a hard year for the race: three dogs  died on the trail , ending its five-year streak without a dog death, and  five more dogs died  in training when teams were struck by snowmachines.

Several major race sponsors have  ended their support  for the race in the last several years, after criticism from the animal rights organization People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. Those include the pet food company Nutanix, Alaska Airlines, ExxonMobil and Coca Cola.

The loss of major sponsors isn’t the only problem. Race officials have cited economic realities.

Inflation has increased the cost of dog food substantially. Some mushers  report  spending more than $40,000 per year to feed their teams. Many mushers are also reeling from the COVID-19 pandemic, when travel restrictions closed off opportunities to offer sled dog tours to tourists — a source of off-season income for many.

Claire Stremple - Alaska Beacon

Alaska Beacon  is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Alaska Beacon maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Andrew Kitchenman for questions: [email protected] . Follow Alaska Beacon on  Facebook and X .

James Brooks, Alaska Beacon

Related articles more from author, anchorage officials aim to keep camping in check as winter shelters wind down, boy, 3, drowns in togiak bay accident, teen driver dies in 3-vehicle wasilla crash.

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Alaska’s newest sled dog race breaks an alternative trail

A slower pace and a community vibe just might be the future of mushing.

Hayden Caron mushes on the Tanana River during the 110-mile T-Dog race on Saturday, March 23, 2024 in Fairbanks. The Tanana Valley Sled Dog Races is Alaska's newest dog sled race, organized by 4-time Iditarod champion Susan Butcher's daughter, Tekla Butcher-Monson. (Loren Holmes / ADN)

FAIRBANKS — As the sun began to rise over the frozen Tanana River on Saturday, competitors made their way to the start of Alaska’s newest sled dog race, the Tanana Valley Sled Dog Races, or T-Dog. In many ways the scene was familiar. Handlers unloaded dogs from the trucks, prepared the lines and attached the sleds, and helped the mushers with whatever they needed. But for this race, the roles were often reversed.

While musher Jennifer Nelson sat next to her sled, getting her hair braided for good luck, her handler for the day, Bridgett Watkins, was running around getting the dogs unloaded and the sled prepped. Normally it’s Nelson who is handling for Watkins, a Salcha musher who finished her first Iditarod in 2023.

Samantha Waldschmidt braids Jennifer Nelson's hair before Nelson's 110-mile race on Saturday. (Loren Holmes / ADN)

Across the parking lot, a similar scene unfolded as Hayden Caron, a handler for Bailey Vitello, was preparing for his longest race so far, the 110-mile T-Dog. Like Watkins, Vitello finished his first Iditarod in 2023, and today he was helping his handler get ready to race.

Caron, wearing an Iditarod sweatshirt, was looking forward to the race. While it would be his longest, it wasn’t that different from the training runs he takes with the dogs. “Same thing, different place,” he said. “More of a fun run type of thing.”

Skijorers make their way down the Tanana River during the 50-mile T-Dog race on Saturday. (Loren Holmes / ADN)

Legendary pedigree

The T-Dog is the brainchild of Tekla Butcher-Monson, daughter of four-time Iditarod champion Susan Butcher. Butcher-Monson, whose nickname is also T-Dog, designed a series of three races — 50- and 110-mile multisport races, and a 200-mile mushing-only Iditarod qualifier.

When Butcher-Monson was born in 1995, her mother had retired from racing. Yet she grew up in a home steeped in mushing. Her father, Dave Monson, is a former Yukon Quest champion, and her parents would tell stories of their experiences mushing and visiting villages across the state. The family continues to operate a kennel, now focused on tourism. After Susan Butcher died in 2006 from leukemia, Dave and 11-year-old Tekla mushed 700 miles of the Iditarod trail, scattering Susan’s ashes along the way.

Tekla Butcher-Monson, right, with her sister Chisana at the Kaltag school in 2012. (Loren Holmes / ADN)

“I got to meet the people who had known her in the checkpoints,” said Tekla, during an interview at her family’s Fairbanks kennel on the eve of the T-Dog. “And the great thing about that run was it really was just a camping trip. It was kind of like the first Iditarod. We were running during the day, resting in the villages at night, so much time to hang out with people and see the country change.”

One of the lessons she learned from that trip, and a similar one in 2012 when her younger sister Chisana turned 11, was that as much as she loved the solitary peaceful time mushing with the dogs, she also appreciated the time spent in the villages and the human interactions along the way.

After college, Tekla returned to Fairbanks to run the family business, and she started spending more time at the family’s homestead in Eureka, around 75 miles northwest of Fairbanks. “I was like, gosh, I’d love to get more people out using these trails,” she said. And so the idea of doing a race, in my mom’s name, on the trails that she used to travel, kind of appeared.”

Tekla Butcher-Monson, left, and her dad Dave Monson talk with a volunteer at the start of the 50 and 110-mile T-Dog races in Fairbanks. (Loren Holmes / ADN)

A 1,000-mile camping trip

For the Iditarod, treating the race like a camping trip simply isn’t possible anymore, because the competition is so fast. “I’ve been kind of vocal about the Iditarod,” said Jeff King, a four-time champion who was getting his team ready for the 50-mile race to Nenana. “This year in particular, I’ve been thinking, you know, we need to do something to slow it down. We disqualify people at a pace that would have been a record pace 20 years ago. I love the race and everything, but it doesn’t need to be eight days.”

When asked about the format of the T-Dog 200, where the first half of the race isn’t timed, King pointed out that it’s a style that has worked in the past, even for highly competitive races. “The Coldfoot Classic in the ‘90s, late ‘80s, was dreamed up by Dick Mackey because the (Gates of the Arctic National Park) wouldn’t let us race through the park,” he said. “So he goes, ‘OK, the race starts in Anaktuvuk Pass, and we won’t race while we’re going through the park, we’ll just race when we get to the other side of the park.’”

16-year-old Tori Boulding navigates a rough trail as she nears the finish line of the 50-mile T-Dog race on Saturday in Nenana. Boulding was the first musher to finish the race, coming in second behind skijorer Sean de Wolski. (Loren Holmes / ADN)

“I love the format because it brings the finish closer together because everybody gets to restart even if you have dramatically different abilities in the team,” said King. “And the first half is still a long damn ways, and it’s really nice not to have to rush that first hundred miles. I love that format. I’m totally, totally into it.”

“I think it’s a super-duper format even for a competitive race,” King said. “In fact, I think the Iditarod could consider it. Race restarts in McGrath, I don’t know, restarts in Kaltag. Everybody’s got to be there. We’ve got to come 700 miles and then let’s ... race. I mean, I think it’s an awesome idea.”

Fellow Iditarod finisher Bridgett Watkins disagrees with King on what the Iditarod might learn from the laid-back format of the T-Dog. “The Iditarod’s a different race,” she said. “It’d be like saying, ‘Do you think the Super Bowl can change?’ Not that it can’t, but should it? It’s just that it is what it is. The Super Bowl is the Super Bowl, the Iditarod is the Iditarod.”

“I appreciate each race for what it is,” said Watkins. “Everything’s always adapting and changing. So, yeah, can some things change? Absolutely. But I think each race runs their own race and does a really good job of it.”

Emma Lewis helps her team out of their truck as she prepares for the 110-mile T-Dog race on Saturday in Fairbanks. (Loren Holmes / ADN)

Iditarod at a crossroads

Dog mushing, designated as the Alaska state sport in 1972, once captivated the hearts of residents and visitors, but today it’s at a crossroads. Very large crowds used to descend on Anchorage for the ceremonial start of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, lining Fourth Avenue to watch the teams mush through town. Big-name sponsors lined up as well, infusing the race with money to support the planes, personnel and purse that make the race possible.

Today, the crowds that come for the Iditarod are still there, but they’re noticeably smaller. So too is the prize money paid out to the winners, which peaked at over $925,000 in 2008, when 78 mushers finished the race. This year, the Iditarod distributed $550,000 to 29 finishers. And many longtime sponsors, under pressure from animal rights activists, have ended their support for the race.

Erin Altemus mushes alongside Tudor Road during the ceremonial start of the Iditarod on March 2, 2024 in Anchorage. (Loren Holmes / ADN)

The Yukon Quest, another roughly 1,000-mile dog sled race, was for years a grueling proving ground for mushers with Iditarod dreams. The race ran between Fairbanks and Whitehorse, Yukon, switching directions each year but was split in two in 2021 during a period of financial pressure and questions about the status of the Canada-U.S. border during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participation at that point was also in decline, with only 15 entrants in 2020.

Then after the 2022 race, the Alaska organizers announced that they were ending their partnership with their Canadian counterparts, largely due to differences in the amount of mandatory rest stops built into the race. Canadian organizers were pushing for more rest for the dog teams, and the split effectively ended the race itself. Today, the Yukon Quest Alaska lives on as a series of much shorter 80-, 200-, and 300-mile races.

While the sport’s marquee events are facing these headwinds, the T-Dog, with its slower approach and emphasis on community and mentorship, might be coming along at the perfect time.

A volunteer helps guide Michael Roddewig's team past a fish wheel and out of the dog yard after a 4-hour rest near the halfway point of the 110-mile T-Dog race in Nenana. (Loren Holmes / ADN)

Dogs in Keira Irish's team prepare to leave the dog yard after a 4-hour rest near the halfway point of the 110-mile T-Dog race on Saturday, March 23, 2024 in Nenana. The Tanana Valley Sled Dog Races is Alaska's newest dog sled race, organized by 4-time Iditarod champion Susan Butcher's daughter, Tekla Butcher-Monson. (Loren Holmes / ADN)

“The (Iditarod) race, I think, lost a lot of what it really stood for when you’ve had so much community involvement in the villages, because you got to know the families, you knew the grandmothers, you knew the grandkids,” said Dave Monson, recalling a period when the Iditarod was a much slower race. “You basically knew who won at bingo the week before, you know, so it was really personal. So I think that’s what she’s (Tekla) trying to bring back, is a little of that feeling.”

“When Vernon (Halter, fellow Yukon Quest champ) and I were running, it wasn’t Formula One,” said Monson. “We didn’t have a real slick trail, snowmachines weren’t involved, and you’d go shorter distances before you camped out.”

The last time Susan Butcher won the Iditarod, in 1990, she took just over 11 days to finish, a time that would have put her near the back of the pack in the 2024 race (24th place out of 29 finishers this year).

Emma Lewis waves as she mushes along the Tanana River after a 4-hour rest near the halfway point of the 110-mile race in Nenana. (Loren Holmes / ADN)

Laura Acuff arrives in Nenana for a 4-hour rest near the halfway point of the 110-mile T-Dog race on Saturday, March 23, 2024 in Nenana. The Tanana Valley Sled Dog Races is Alaska's newest dog sled race, organized by 4-time Iditarod champion Susan Butcher's daughter, Tekla Butcher-Monson. (Loren Holmes / ADN)

Following in the footsteps of the 1925 Serum Run

The Iditarod was born out of an appreciation for Alaska’s rich mushing history, perhaps most notably the 1925 serum run, where teams of dog mushers carried diphtheria serum from Nenana to Nome, helping to save the town from the deadly epidemic.

At the 50-mile T-Dog finish line in Nenana, where the historic 1925 serum run began, volunteers held up a banner against the wind as competitors trickled in. In contrast with the serum run, where temperatures in January 1925 were south of 40 degrees below zero, for the T-Dog the temps were well above freezing.

Tori Boulding, with hands raised, cheers on 13-year-old musher Hazel Sutton as she finishes the 50-mile T-Dog race in Nenana. Boulding, 16, was the first musher to finish the race, coming in second behind skijorer Sean de Wolski, in orange. (Loren Holmes / ADN)

First across the line was the shirtless Fairbanks musher Sean de Wolski, who skijored with four of his canine athletes. De Wolski smoked the competition in the weekend’s shortest race, finishing 28 minutes ahead of the first musher, 16-year-old Tori Boulding. Afterwards he gave most of the credit for his win to his dogs. “I only kicked about 50 times the whole race,” he said, as he and his now-loosed dogs rested by a fire on the muddy riverbank while he drank a beer, waiting for a friend to deliver his truck from Fairbanks. Rounding out third place was fat tire biker Connor Truskowski, who raced without the aid of any canine companions.

As the rest of the skiers, bikers, and mushers trickled into the checkpoint in Nenana, a bluegrass band played in a nearby social hall, entertaining competitors and community members alike.

Jenny Roddewig passes the Nenana Ice Classic tripod as she leaves town after a 4-hour rest on Saturday. (Loren Holmes / ADN)

“There are so many people that want to do this kind of stuff, but don’t feel the need to do it as competitively,” said Tekla Butcher-Monson, who darted back and forth between the band and the finish line on the river outside. “Yes, we will have somebody who finishes first, but for the most part it’s about being out there together with our dogs.”

Even though the race is organized around a set of values more expansive than simply winning, it still attracts big-name mushers who are known for being seriously competitive.

Vern Halter, left, interviews Jeff King while Dave Monson records before the start of the 50-mile T-Dog in Fairbanks. King, a 4-time Iditarod champion, was doing the 50-mile race with his daughter Cali Best. (Loren Holmes / ADN)

“Good morning, Jeff,” said Vern Halter, a retired musher and former 1,000-mile Yukon Quest champion, as Butcher-Monson’s dad Dave Monson recorded cell phone video for social media. “Why would a four-time Iditarod champion, a Kusko (Kuskokwim 300) champion, a Yukon Quest champion, be running this race?”

“I’m 68 years old,” said King. “I have a 39-year-old daughter who wanted to race, and my grandkids are going to be here. And we chose this race mainly because the kids get to see the start and the finish.”

Being a brand-new race, King is already thinking of ways to make it more fun. “I’m going to be talking to Tekla to see if next year we can carry a passenger in the sled for the 50,” he said, “because both my grandkids want to come really bad. And it would be fun.”

A musher makes their way down a road and under a railroad bridge during the 110-mile T-Dog race on Saturday in Nenana. (Loren Holmes / ADN)

Loren Holmes

Loren Holmes is a staff photojournalist at the Anchorage Daily News. Contact him at [email protected].

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The 16 Best Alaska Cruise Excursions for 2024

A cruise to Alaska is one of the best ways to visit many parts of the 49th state, including the Inside Passage and the southeastern port towns of Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway. You can also see dozens of glaciers on a cruise, plus remote places reachable only by water, like Glacier National Park & Preserve. Traveling by ship allows you to get closer to one-of-a-kind experiences in Alaska's interior, especially if you extend your vacation with a cruisetour (a package that includes the cruise and a land portion either before or after your voyage).

When it comes to excursions, many cruise lines offer the same experiences ashore for larger ports of call, often with a slight variation in the itinerary. The most popular tours highlight the best activities and attractions, such as the Mendenhall Glacier Ice Adventure Tour in Juneau, the Misty Fjords National Monument in Ketchikan and the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway in Skagway. You'll also find entertaining offerings from cruise lines that call on smaller, less visited ports, like Icy Strait Point (Hoonah), Sitka, Seward and Haines.

While some tours cost less than $100, don't be surprised to find over-the-top experiences that run about $750 per person – such as heli-flightseeing tours, where you'll land on a glacier and go dog-sledding with a team of Alaskan huskies. If you're comfortable with going it on your own, you might find lower prices on some excursions by booking directly with tour operators. Alaskan outfitters are used to working around cruise ship arrival and departure times, so their tours tend to fit into those schedules.

U.S. News has compiled this list to help you find the best Alaska cruise excursions, from the most popular (and affordable) options to once-in-a-lifetime adventures.

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Even though it's surrounded by water and mountains – and there's no road into town – Juneau is one of the most visited ports in Alaska, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors each summer. You'll find plenty to do in Alaska's capital, including whale watching tours, salmon bakes and more.

Mendenhall Glacier

The Mendenhall Glacier is one of the top attractions in Juneau, so many tours include a visit to the Tongass National Forest to view the 12-mile-long sheet of blue ice. Some cruise lines, like Princess Cruises , offer self-guided trekking excursions that include a ride on the Juneau Goldbelt Tram, which affords views of the Chilkat Mountains and other panoramic scenery. You can also opt to see the glacier from the water by boat or kayak, or on a float trip.

However, if you're going to splurge on any one excursion, it's this one: Sign up for a helicopter landing on Mendenhall Glacier, followed by a dog-sledding adventure with a team of Alaskan huskies. During the approximately 30-minute helicopter ride, you'll fly over rainforests and spectacular summits, but the real fun is when you arrive at the camp to go zipping through the snow led by your team of dogs and a professional musher.

The Mendenhall Glacier helicopter excursion is offered on Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line and Silversea Cruises.

Whale Watching and Wildlife Quest

Whale watching is another top activity when visiting Juneau, and many cruise lines offer several options for tours. Holland America Line has a five-hour, small-group excursion for just 20 guests; you'll search for humpback whales on a safari vessel, then hike on Mendenhall Glacier where you can look for beavers, Arctic terns, porcupines and black bears. If you prefer an even smaller group, Princess Cruises offers a 3.5-hour private whale watching tour for six people. Possible sightings include humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, eagles, harbor seals, lighthouses, glaciers and maybe even a bear along the shoreline.

One of Viking Ocean Cruises ' excursions, the Best of Juneau, lasts more than six hours and takes guests on a naturalist-led whale watching cruise by catamaran. Before heading back to shore, you'll have a lunch of local wild-caught Alaska salmon on remote Colt Island, followed by a scenic drive to Mendenhall Glacier to end the day.

Alaska whale watching and wildlife excursions are offered on Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

Taku Lodge Salmon Bake

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a 3.5-hour Taku Glacier Lodge Flight & Feast excursion that will tick several quintessential Alaska adventures off your bucket list. After flying over the Juneau Icefield (the fifth-largest ice field in North America) in a classic De Havilland seaplane, guests will land in the river at the historic Taku Glacier Lodge across from Juneau's largest glacier, the 5-mile-wide Taku Glacier.

A traditional Alaska salmon bake (with all the fixings) and drinks made with glacier ice are another highlight of the day. You might even see a black bear sniffing around for leftovers after your feast. Following lunch, take a walk in the lush Tongass National Forest before heading back from the wilderness.

Salmon bake excursions are offered on Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

Ketchikan sits at the southernmost entrance to Alaska's Inside Passage. It is one of the most visited ports in Alaska, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Visitors come to this part of the state for the beautiful scenery, Alaska Native culture and fresh seafood, including Alaska salmon and king crab. And they just might enjoy an entertaining lumberjack show or floatplane ride to kick off their day while in town.

The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show

Watch Alaska's hearty lumberjacks battle British Columbia's tough woodsmen in a head-to-head competition to see who can win the title of "Bull of the Woods." The thrill-a-minute show – a guest favorite – features a 50-foot tree climb, ax throwing, log rolling, buck sawing and springboard chopping, along with plenty of lumberjack lore. Some lines, like Princess Cruises, offer just the show; it lasts a little over an hour, so there will be plenty of time for a self-guided tour of Ketchikan before heading back to the ship. You may also be able to book a combination tour that includes the show and an ax throwing lesson (plus a competition of your own), or a trip to Totem Bright State Park, where you'll learn about the significance of totem poles and the Native Tlingit and Haida cultures.

Holland America Line offers a tour with the lumberjack show and a feast of local Dungeness crabs. For another culinary option, check out the 3.5-hour excursion with Norwegian Cruise Line . It includes a visit to Saxman Native Village, where you'll sample smoked wild game meats, dine on chef-selected dishes prepared with regional ingredients, and taste local wines and beers.

Lumberjack shows are offered on Alaska voyages with Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises , Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

Bering Sea Crab Fisherman's Tour

Embark on the Aleutian Ballard, the Bering Sea fishing boat made famous by the Discovery Channel's "Deadliest Catch" television series. The approximately three-hour excursion gives guests a firsthand experience of what it's like to sail on the vessel as a Bering Sea crab fisherman and catch massive king crabs, octopuses and other marine life with 700-pound crab pots. The boat may also stop at nearby Annette Island, where you'll have the chance to see whales, sea lions, seals and bald eagles soaring overhead (one may even try to snag your catch!). You may also get to watch local fishermen at work.

Some lines that offer the fisherman's tour include Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

Misty Fjords by Floatplane or Cruise

The more than 2 million-acre Misty Fjords National Monument is one of the top attractions in Alaska . Described by naturalist and author John Muir as "the Yosemite of the North," the awe-inspiring destination is best viewed from above on a floatplane. From the sky, you'll see towering 1,000-foot waterfalls, the volcanic Revillagigedo Island, snowcapped peaks, verdant forests and 3,000-foot walls of granite descending into the fjords. On a floatplane tour, you'll also have the chance to land on the water and take in the spectacular scenery from another viewpoint.

If you're not a fan of small planes, some lines offer the option of taking a cruise from Ketchikan's harbor. You'll sail into Behm Canal surrounded by the scenery of Misty Fjords, and you may even see wildlife or bald eagle nests. You'll also cruise by Eddystone Rock, a massive volcanic spire emerging from the sea, as well as waterfalls and 3,000-foot cliffs sculpted by glaciers.

Cruise lines that offer floatplane or cruisetours of Misty Fjords include Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Viking Ocean Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

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Skagway is another busy and popular cruise port in Alaska. It's one of the most popular towns on the Inside Passage itinerary; its fascinating Klondike Gold Rush history dates back to 1897. Take notice of the historic false-front shops reminiscent of the gold rush days as you explore. Many of these buildings are part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, and you may even see people strolling down the streets dressed in period costumes.

White Pass & Yukon Route

One of the top-rated attractions in Skagway is the White Pass Summit Scenic Railroad journey through Alaska's wilderness. The narrow-gauge railroad is an International Historic Civil Engineering Landmark – an honor shared by the Panama Canal, the Statue of Liberty and the Eiffel Tower. Dating back 125 years, the historic railway features vintage rail cars and climbs to a steep 2,865 feet at the summit over just 20.4 miles. Along the way to the summit – located at the official international border between the U.S. and Canada – you'll listen to the history of the Klondike Gold Rush while passing by Inspiration Point, Dead Horse Gulch and Bridal Veil Falls. After making a loop at the top, the train will head back down the mountain. You might even see snow on the ride if your cruise to Alaska is early in the season.

Excursions on some lines combine the rail journey with other activities, like biking on the Klondike Highway from the summit or visiting Liarsville, a gold rush trail camp. Others include a stop (and a cold beer) at the Skagway Brewing Company. In addition, some cruise providers offer the train ride in a luxury class rail car, which includes complimentary beverages, snacks and a private guide who will explain the history of the railroad as you watch the scenery pass by.

Norwegian Cruise Line's six-hour excursion features a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route, a salmon bake at Liarsville and an adult beverage with one of the "madames" at the renowned Red Onion Saloon. Meanwhile, Silversea Cruises ' new 5.5-hour tour includes the train ride; a trip to the Yukon Suspension Bridge, which sits 65 feet above the white water rapids of the Tutshi River; and a hearty lunch of bison chili.

Cruise lines that offer the railroad (and combination) tours include Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Musher's Camp and Sled Dog Discovery

If you want to cuddle with Alaskan husky puppies, then this excursion is for you. Norwegian Cruise Line's approximately three-hour excursion takes guests to a professional musher's summer camp in Dyea Valley, where they train sled dogs for the Yukon Quest and Iditarod races. After a thrilling ride into the rainforest on a four-wheel-drive vehicle, you'll head out on a summertime dog sled with 16 Alaskan huskies at the helm. Before puppy play time, you'll learn how the mushers care for the dogs and prepare for the races. Depending on the cruise line, some tours may end with roasting s'mores by the fire.

Some lines that offer this excursion are Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Chilkoot Trail Hike and Float Adventure

The historic Chilkoot Trail was the main route for those in search of untold riches during the famous gold rush years. Today, the trail, located in Gold Rush National Historical Park, is a rainforest full of birds and wildflowers. Excursions to the park include hikes with river floats on the Taiya River (there are no rapids) or bike tours of the trail. There are also wilderness kayaking outings to Chilkoot Lake, which is home to the five species of Pacific salmon, waterfowl, bald eagles and one of the largest brown bear populations in southeast Alaska.

Some cruise lines that offer these excursions include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Sitka is the only community in the Inside Passage that sits on the Pacific Ocean. The small city – home to just 8,500 residents – was owned by Russia before the U.S. purchased the land in 1867. Today, you'll find remnants of this Russian heritage, like onion-shaped domes and Saint Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral. Sitka also has a strong Tlingit culture. In terms of shore excursions, you'll find plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing surrounded by pristine landscapes.

Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest

Royal Caribbean International's three-hour jet boat cruise on Sitka Sound features panoramic scenery (including snow-capped peaks) and the chance to see abundant wildlife. During the tour, look for playful sea otters, whales and brown bears walking along the coast. The line also offers another tour – Sea Otters, Raptors and Bears Oh My – that features a naturalist-guided catamaran cruise followed by visits to the Alaskan Raptor Center (a rehabilitation center for birds of prey) and the Fortress of the Bear (a rescue operation for orphaned bears).

In comparison, Carnival Cruise Line 's VIP wildlife quest in search of whales, sea otters, coastal brown bears and more concludes with a feast of wild salmon cooked over a wood-fired grill, Alaska crab and prime rib at the Fin Island Lodge. Following a wildlife Zodiac cruise around the archipelago, Holland America Line's version of this excursion also visits the lodge for lunch in partnership with Food & Wine magazine.

You can find this excursion on Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

The Best of Sitka

Several cruise lines offer a version of this tour, which features an exploration of the top attractions in Sitka. On this excursion, you'll visit the Fortress of the Bear in Tongass National Park to learn about the facility's work with orphaned bears. There's also a stop at Sitka National Historical Park, where the 1804 "Battle of Alaska" between the Russians and the Tlingits was fought. Here, you'll see handcarved totem poles created by skilled Tlingit artists and get to meet local Native artists to learn more. The excursion also includes a visit to the Alaska Raptor Center.

Lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Icy Strait Point (Hoonah)

Icy Strait Point in Hoonah may be a much smaller port than others on this list, but it is a jumping-off point for endless outdoor explorations, including whale watching tours and searching for coastal brown bears. Icy Strait Point is Alaska Native-owned and -operated and is home to the largest Native Tlingit village in Alaska. While here, explore the wilderness areas of Chichagoff Islands, visit the 1912 cannery museum, and grab lunch with fresh Alaska king and Dungeness crabs before taking a ride on the world's largest ZipRider. (Or, play it safe and plan to take that ride down the mountain before lunch.)

Whale Watching & Bear Search

The waters surrounding Icy Strait Point host the largest summer population of humpback whales in the state, especially around the Point Adolphus area. If you purchase a tour directly with the Icy Strait Point website, they'll even guarantee you'll see whales – or they'll refund your money. During the tour, look for orcas, Steller sea lions, porpoises and seals. But be sure to also gaze overhead for bald eagles and search along the shore for bears; the Spasski River Valley in the remote wilderness of Chichagof Island has one of the highest densities of coastal brown bears in the world. Some cruise lines offer a variation of this excursion that includes a boiled seafood feast back on shore at Icy Strait Point.

You can find this excursion on voyages with Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, Silversea Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Scenic Mountain Ascent & World's Largest ZipRider

Thrill-seekers (who love heights) will jump at the chance to ride the world's largest and longest zip line, which sits more than 1,300 feet above sea level at the top of Icy Strait Point. The ride to the summit on the SkyGlider mountaintop gondola is also a rush, but the real excitement comes as you zoom down 5,330-foot zip lines with five other riders at 60 mph – with views of the forest below and Glacier Bay National Park in the distance. A break-activated landing on the beach brings riders safely back to the ground. The price also includes unlimited rides on the gondola.

Cruise lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Viking Ocean Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line.

A less visited port than some others on this list (according to CLIA), Seward is the ancestral home to the Alutiiq, or Sugpiaq, people. Its breathtaking natural beauty – with mountains on one side and Resurrection Bay on the other – has been shaped by glaciers over thousands of years. Top attractions in Seward include the Alaska SeaLife Center and a charming downtown area. It also offers access to Kenai Fjords National Park.

Kenai Fjords National Park Cruise

During your stop in Seward, take a full-day excursion to see the astounding beauty of Kenai Fjords National Park. The impressive fjords are surrounded by mountains standing more than 6,000 feet tall and an ecosystem rich in wildlife. While there, watch for a variety of whale species, sea otters, porpoises and sea lions, and onshore, you might see bears and mountain goats. There are also 191 documented species of birds in the park and many glaciers. As you get up close to Holgate Glacier, listen as chunks of blue ice calve into the water.

Some cruise lines, such as Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, offer this as an individual tour, while others like Holland America Line include it as part of a cruisetour. You can also book the excursion directly with a local tour operator if you're embarking or disembarking in Seward.

Haines, a small port about 20 miles north of Skagway, is best known for its Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The 49,000-acre preserve has the largest natural gathering of eagles during the late salmon runs and boasts pristine forests, marshlands and rivers brimming with wildlife.

Glacier Point Wilderness Safari

Norwegian Cruise Line's five-hour excursion takes guests on an adventure into the wilderness by boat while cruising North America's deepest and longest fjord, the upper Lynn Canal. You might even see breaching whales and playful sea lions en route to Glacier Point, where you'll disembark at the beach upon arrival. After a drive through the forest and a hike in the woods, you'll have unforgettable, up-close views of the Davidson Glacier by canoe.

Lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line and Silversea Cruises. Holland America Line offers this excursion from Skagway.

Eagle Preserve Rafting Float Adventure

Look for bald eagles soaring overhead as you raft down the gentle Chilkat River through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. The waters are overflowing with salmon that come to spawn, serving as food for as many as 400 bald eagles living in the Chilkat Valley. Don't be surprised to see brown bears or 1,600-pound moose coming to feast along the riverbank during your rafting adventure.

Some lines that offer this excursion include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Lin e. Holland America Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Viking Ocean Cruises host this excursion from Skagway.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

J.J. Keller connects Fox Valley with Alaska's greatest Iditarod musher

by Cody Krupp

NEENAH (WLUK) On an Alaskan Cruise for their anniversary in 2006, a pair of well known local business owners and philanthropists Jim and Rosanne met an 18 year old with a big future vision at a sled dogging excursion in Seward. His goal was to become the world's great Iditarod musher.

Dallas Seavey would later tell the Kellers -- "you bet on the right horse".

Recently Seavey cementing securing himself on top of the all time greats list.

"When people ask him about branding and promoting the Iditarod, he says call Mr. Keller," Jim said

If you look closely videos and photos from the Iditarod you might recognize a familiar NE Wisconsin logo.

"JJ Keller coats, JJ Keller hats, JJ Keller dog coats, JJ Keller sled, JJ Keller pick up truck," as Keller listed off the list of logoed apparel.

"My job at the finish line is to make sure the hat is straight so you can see the title," joked Rosanne.

Seavey asked by Fox11's Cody Krupp how many pieces of clothing in your drawers at home including your dogs say J.J. Keller on it?

"I don't even know, it would be a very high number," Seavey answered with a laugh.

It is a very unique partnership that goes back a decade n' a half to when Jim left Dallas his business card following their sled dog anniversary excursion.

"I said son call me in a couple of weeks when we get back from the cruise, I have a concept, and she (Rosane) goes here he goes again with another Jim Keller venture!" joked Jim.

"I figured this would be a one year deal, they are interested in it it's fun to be involved with than move on but it has been so very different than that," added Seavey.

From Seavey becoming the youngest to ever win it in 2012, now in 2024 crowned the only six time Iditarod champion.

"I am just as amazed now as I was in 2012, he should win an ESPY I will put that plug on the news. He is their Super Bowl champion, he's it. He just said it a couple of months ago that without the Keller's we wouldn't be where we are," Jim reflected.

J.J. Keller and Associates is located just on the outskirts of Neenah, over 3,000 miles away from Nome, Alaska site of the finish line. Jim and Rosanne have been there many times, but the feeling watching Seavey win never gets old.

"They open it up and it's a wall of people. He comes in, and then they close it. That's when it hits you, when you are in that wall. Wow," Jim exclaimed.

"Grandkids were sitting and watching and go there is grandma, there is grandpa!" added Rosanne.

Seavey asked, would it be a strange feeling if you go to a finish line and they are not there?

"Yes they are part of the family now right? Cause that is kind of part of what has become the tradition now I suppose, we get there and get to visit and hang out," Seavey said with a smile.

"We consider him almost like one of our sons," Jim said of Dallas.

"Gone up for two of his brothers weddings," added Rosanne.

When there book titled "Born to Rush" was published it included 127 pages but after so many stories from than until now it could probably be a full fledged novel.

"People go wow! It's been one of those unique things that has worked out, crazy," Jim smiled and said.

"We truly did something that nobody has done before and being able to do that with Jim and Rosanne from the beginning, it's been a really neat experience," added Seavey.

Their story is not done being written.