Dog sled excursion

Question

I was interested in taking some sort of tour of dog sledding in Skagway, but all the reviews of different excursions that people have taken were pretty bad. Comments were things such as it was boring, the dogs were older and didn’t want to play, you were rushed out of there, not worth the drive, etc.

Does anyone have any comments about this, such as recommending a particular tour, advising not to go, giving tips, etc.

Answer

Dog sled excursions in Skagway can be a mixed experience, and the feedback you’ve read is consistent with what many first-time visitors report. The main issues often revolve around the dogs being older or less active in the summer months, short tour durations, or overly commercialized operations that prioritize quantity over quality of experience.

Here are some detailed considerations and tips:

Season matters: In summer, dog sledding is often done on wheeled rigs rather than snow. Dogs may be resting after busy winter months, so interactions can feel less energetic compared to winter mushing.
Tour length: Most summer tours are relatively short, often 30–45 minutes, which can feel rushed if you are expecting a more immersive experience.
Expectations: Don’t expect to drive the sled for long distances; most tours have a professional musher guiding the dogs while passengers ride along. This is different from a winter sledding adventure.

If you are still interested, some tips for choosing a tour:

Look for smaller, family-run operations rather than large commercial outfits. These often provide a more personal experience and better interaction with the dogs.
Read recent reviews to see which companies prioritize dog care and guest experience over maximum group size.
Consider combining the dog sled visit with other activities nearby (like a short hike or a visit to a local museum) to make the drive worthwhile.
Contact operators in advance and ask specifically about the dogs’ age, activity level, and how much hands-on interaction you’ll have. Operators that are transparent about this tend to provide a better experience.

Alternative experiences in Skagway that may be more fulfilling include the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, hiking nearby trails with stunning views, or guided gold rush history tours. If the primary goal is dog sledding for a true interactive experience, you might find a winter trip more rewarding.

In summary, a summer dog sled tour in Skagway can be fun if your expectations are aligned with a short, wheeled-ride experience with some dog interaction, but it is unlikely to be a high-energy sledding adventure. Prioritize small operators and recent reviews to get the best possible visit.

Dog sled excursion

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