The term “dog sledding” refers to using a dog team to pull a sled.
The history of dog sledding dates back to 1000 AD. It was an important way for people in North America and Greenland to transport items before the invention of snowmobiles. Dog sledding is also used by hunters and explorers today and tourists who want to experience something new while traveling in Canada or Alaska.
Dog sleds are used for many purposes these days, but they were initially designed for hunting and exploration. In the 1800s, traders would use them when transporting goods from one place to another in Canada and Alaska. Today, many people enjoy dog sledding as a recreational activity that is great for families, friends, and even solo travelers!
How to Prepare for the Trip
Preparing for a dog sledding trip is not hard at all, but there are some things that you should do before you go on your adventure. Here are 5 lists of preparation for dog sledding:
- What to wear when you go dog sledding in Canada
- What to bring when going dog sledding in Canada
- What is the best time of year for going on a dog sledding trip?
- What should I do when I get back from my dog sledding adventure?
- How often should I wash my clothes after a day of dog sledding?
The preparation for a dog sledding trip is simple. All you need to do is make sure that you have the right gear and equipment, and that you are well-rested and healthy.
An excellent way to do this is by looking into what items you will need and deciding which ones are most important. The following is a list of items that someone might find helpful:
- The gear- If you are going to be taking a long trip on the trail, you will need to pack your dog sled for this type of journey.
- Dog sled (most important) – the more complete, the better. You will also want one that has metal runners rather than wooden ones because your dog pulls harder on metal.
- Lights for night travel – two lanterns and a headlamp per person. You will also want enough batteries to last about two days of use.
- Red emergency flares – the more expensive the better, but be sure they are red, not orange or green!
- Snow shovel – you should have one that is not too heavy so it’s easy to pick up and carry, but with a handle long enough that you can easily reach over your head.
What Types of Dogs Are Used?
Dog sledding is a winter sport that is popular in Canada. There are many different breeds of dogs used in this activity.
Some of the most common types of dogs used for dog sledding are Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, and Samoyeds. These breeds are often used because they are bred to be strong and capable of pulling heavy loads over long distances.
Best 7 Places in Canada to Go Dog Sledding
In Canada, dog sledding is a common winter sport. People of all ages find it entertaining. This article will provide you with the best 7 lists of places to go dog sledding in Canada.
1) The Canadian Rockies – Banff, Alberta
The Canadian Rockies are one of the best places to go dog sledding in Canada. Banff is known as a resort town with ski hills, lakes, and mountain views. The Boomerang Trail is a popular dog sledding trail. The trail is a 70-kilometer loop within the Canadian Rockies. It provides excellent views of the mountains and snowfields. Many dogsledding tours take you on a 5-hour tour to see both Banff and Lake Louise.
What will you experience?
Meeting the dogs that will lead you into the freezing tundra starts each tour. Remember the dogs’ names—you may make a new friend! Help your musher prepare the dogs for the tour by harnessing and connecting them to the sled. Try to muster your team of Alaskan huskies or snuggle up in blankets as your skilled musher leads your team over the mountains.
The trained mushers and dogs are amazing. Ask your guide about dogsledding’s history, skills, and subtleties—they’re pretty knowledgeable and the musher-dog interaction is fascinating.
2) The Great Lakes, Ontario
The Great Lakes are the world’s largest group of freshwater lakes and constitute the world’s largest source of fresh water. They are bounded on the south by Southern Ontario, on the west by Eastern Iowa and Minnesota, on the north by New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio, and on the east by Quebec, Canada. Even though dog sledding is available all around Ontario, the majority of tour groups converge in an area between Ottawa and Toronto called Explorer’s Edge.
What will you experience?
Feel the excitement of driving a pack of sled dogs across a snowy landscape. Ontario’s dog sledding companies offer tours that range from two hours to overnight or multiple-day expeditions. All excursions have complete gear and expert guidance. Prepare for disappointment by making a reservation in advance.
3) Fairbanks, Alaska
Alaska is among the most famous venues for dog sledding in both the US and the world. If you are looking for an adventure that combines the thrill of the great outdoors, a new culture, and some excellent dog sledding, then Fairbanks, Alaska might be just what you’re looking for. Because of this, a dog sled expedition to look for the Northern Lights at night would be an incredible experience.
What will you experience?
Experience with Dog Sledding in Fairbanks at night and the Northern Lights is amazing.
4) Winnipeg, Manitoba
Winnipeg, Manitoba is a much-beloved Canadian city. It has been named one of the best places to go dog sledding in Canada, and it’s easy to see why. The town features over 400 km of groomed trails and several other winter activities such as snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Visitors also enjoy spending time in Winnipeg’s iconic Exchange District – an eclectic mix of art galleries and boutiques.
What will you experience?
Learn about the dogs and the sport that mixes Inuit heritage with the thrill of speed in this exciting activity. To experience dog sledding in southern Manitoba, book a night in a warm winter tent in the woods near the village of Richer.
5) Quebec City, Quebec
Quebec City, the provincial capital of Quebec, is a popular destination for many Canadians. The city has a booming tourism industry and is also a major cultural hub. Quebec is a great place to go dog sledding and you can find the best of these experiences in Quebec City. Many people have had the pleasure of going dog sledding in Quebec City and they say it was one of the most fun things they have ever done. Dog sled tour guides can be found in Jacques-Cartier, Portneuf, and Cote-de-Beaupre.
What will you experience?
In Quebec, skilled mushers may take you and your group on a family adventure across a network of sled routes. They can take anyone who wishes to relax and take in this incredible natural experience.
6) Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland, and Labrador
Gros Morne National Park is a wonderful place for those who love the great outdoors. The park is the perfect place to go dog sledding in Canada and explore one of the largest fjords in North America. There are tons of things for kids to do, like dog sledding! Gros Morne National Park is a wonderful place to take your family!
What will you experience?
Experience the culture of sled dogs in Newfoundland and Labrador. Sled dogs have always been a part of Inuit culture and can be found all over the Arctic and Subarctic.
7) Vancouver Island, British Columbia
Vancouver Island is a beautiful, scenic island with many things to do. One of the most popular activities on the island is dog sledding. The island has many hills and mountains that are perfect for dog sledding. There are lots of dog sledding companies in Vancouver Island that provide exciting excursions for both experienced and novice dog sledders.
What will you experience?
Experience the thrill of leading a group of huskies across a frozen landscape. Several places in British Columbia will put you in charge of one of the most exciting things on earth.
Read also: How Dog Sledding in Canada Can Make Your Vacation More Fun