Dog Sledding or Musher Camp Tour – Skagway, Alaska
Dog sledding and musher camp tours are among the most thrilling and memorable experiences you can have in Skagway. Whether you choose a helicopter‑supported glacier dog sledding adventure or a wheeled summer sled ride at a musher camp, both options offer an up‑close look at Alaska’s most iconic sport. Visitors meet professional mushers, interact with friendly sled dogs, and learn how teams train for long‑distance races like the Iditarod and Yukon Quest.
For cruise travelers, these tours are easy to book, family‑friendly, and packed with unforgettable moments. From helicopter views over snow‑covered peaks to cuddling energetic puppies at the camp, this is one of the most joyful and immersive excursions in Skagway.
Fun Facts
- Dog sledding is Alaska’s official state sport.
- Many mushers in Skagway have competed in the Iditarod or Yukon Quest.
- Glacier dog sledding takes place on the Denver Glacier, accessible only by helicopter.
- Summer camps use wheeled sleds, allowing visitors to experience mushing even without snow.
- Sled dogs can run up to 20 mph and are bred for endurance, not size.
- Puppies begin socialization early to prepare for future racing teams.
- A typical sled team includes 8–12 dogs, each with a specific role.
- The musher camps are set in beautiful forested areas with mountain views.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Your experience depends on the tour type:
Glacier Dog Sledding (Helicopter + Snow Sled)
You’ll begin with a scenic helicopter flight over Skagway’s mountains and glaciers before landing on a snowy plateau. Professional mushers greet you, introduce the dogs, and take you on a thrilling sled ride across the glacier. The setting is surreal — wide‑open snowfields, crisp mountain air, and panoramic views in every direction.
Musher Camp (Wheeled Sled Ride + Kennel Tour)
This land‑based tour takes place in a forested camp outside Skagway. You’ll meet the dogs, learn about training, and enjoy a fast, fun ride on a wheeled sled pulled by an enthusiastic team. Afterward, you can tour the kennels, ask questions, and often cuddle with puppies — a highlight for many visitors.
Both versions include time with the dogs and mushers, making the experience personal, educational, and full of energy.
Why It’s Worth Visiting
Dog sledding is perfect for travelers who want a hands‑on, high‑impact adventure that feels uniquely Alaskan. The dogs are friendly and excited to run, the mushers are passionate storytellers, and the scenery is spectacular. Whether you choose the glacier or the musher camp, this is an experience your readers will remember long after their cruise.
Where It’s Located
- Glacier tours depart from the Skagway heliport and land on the Denver Glacier.
- Musher camp tours take place in a forested area just outside Skagway, accessible by shuttle or tour bus.
How to Get There From the Cruise Port
- Helicopter tours: Shuttle pickup at the cruise dock.
- Musher camp tours: Transportation included with most excursions.
- Independent travel: Not typical, as both experiences require guided access.
Best Time to Visit
- May–August for musher camp tours with wheeled sleds.
- Late May–early August for glacier dog sledding (weather permitting).
- Morning flights often offer the best visibility for helicopter tours.
- Early summer brings the most energetic puppies at the camps.
Tips for Visiting
- Dress in layers — even summer glacier tours can feel chilly.
- Bring a camera — dog photos and glacier views are irresistible.
- Book early — dog sledding is one of Skagway’s most popular excursions.
- Wear closed‑toe shoes for comfort and safety.
- Ask mushers about their racing experiences — the stories are incredible.
- If you’re prone to motion sickness, sit near the front of the wheeled sled.
Common Complaints
- Glacier tours may be canceled due to weather or visibility.
- Dog sledding is one of the most expensive excursions in Skagway.
- Wheeled sled rides are short — the focus is on the dogs and the camp experience.
- Camps can feel busy when multiple groups arrive at once.
Final Thoughts
Dog sledding or visiting a musher camp is one of the most joyful, immersive, and uniquely Alaskan experiences you can have in Skagway. Whether you’re gliding across a glacier or racing through the forest on a wheeled sled, the combination of scenery, storytelling, and time with the dogs makes this a standout port‑day adventure. For more ideas to plan your day, explore my full guide to the top things to do in Skagway.
