Dog Sledding in the Alberta Rockies
• A WorldWeb.com Travel Guide for Alberta's Rockies, Alberta.
All-season outdoor recreation and adventure is at the heart of what makes the Alberta Rockies tick. Extending along the border between Alberta and British Columbia, the range is exemplified by magnificent, snow-capped mountain peaks, impressive alpine meadows and meandering glacier-fed river valleys, all co-existing in unison to create an unparalleled backdrop. While warm summer months are replete with opportunities, winter in the mountains has a distinct allure and wonder sure to remain in the minds of those fortunate enough to experience it. What better way to explore the unspoiled, snow-covered wilds than by dog sled touring, a one-of-a-kind experience infused with tradition, exhilaration and authenticity. An array of operators across the mountain region provides professional and flexible tour choices for novices and repeat customers alike.
A HISTORY OF CANADIAN DOG SLEDDING
A mode of travel for hundreds—perhaps thousands—of years, dog sledding has played a critical role within Canada's rich heritage and history. Thought to have originated among early Inuit cultures of the North, the tradition of using dog power as transport was vital for hunting, trade and even police patrol. With the advent of modern vehicles and added infrastructure, dog sledding has shifted to become a recreational and sporting pursuit accessible to all. In addition to the rise in popularity of sledding holidays, professional long-range racing challenges are cropping up nationwide and beyond, including the famed Iditarod race of the Alaskan interior.
AN OVERVIEW OF DOG SLEDDING
The most critical aspect of the sport is the highly trained dog team; the dogs are individually hand-picked for certain sledding roles and develop amazing endurance and speed over the course of their careers. Typically, teams are made up of northern breeds like Siberian huskies and the Alaskan racing husky, which have a strong work ethic, are extremely athletic, have great social temperaments and are well-adapted to cold climates. The highly astute team is well-versed in directional commands as taught by their musher (driver) and each dog has a role in the overall functioning of the run.
Anywhere from six to 12 dogs can comprise a team, which pulls a small, specialized sled from which the musher stands and commands the team. The front section of the sled is used to carry equipment or passengers. A gang-line runs from the sled down the middle of the dog team, which is attached to the line via harnesses. "Hike" (go), "easy" (slow down), "gee" (go right), "haw" (go left) and "whoa" (stop) are common commands heard while dog sledding, but vary according to driver.
DOG SLED ADVENTURES IN THE ALBERTA ROCKIES
For its uniqueness and ties to history, the time-honoured tradition of dog sled touring is an ideal way to reconnect with nature. Pristine, backcountry trails inaccessible by road are within reach when explored by a highly adapted sled and an eager team of trained dogs. Numerous choices for dog sled holiday adventures are available in the mountain towns of Banff, Canmore, Jasper, Lake Louise and the Icefields Parkway Region. All tours are facilitated by a professional guide and offer hands-on learning opportunities and interaction with the dog team. Operators also offer an array of packages to choose from, including two-hour, half-day, full-day, evening and multi-day adventures. Passengers have the opportunity to try their hand at mushing or just sit back and enjoy the ride. Companies like Howling Dog Tours in Canmore offer packages for riders aged two and up and even provide complimentary shuttle services from most major hotels in both Canmore and Banff.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
The touring season typically runs from December to April, dependent on snowfall and weather conditions. Weather is a critical consideration to make when partaking in a dog sled expedition; winter in the Alberta Rockies can be very cold with average temperatures ranging from 5°C (23°F) to -15° (5°F), not factoring in wind chill. Because safety and comfort are key to enjoying a day on the trails, warm winter clothing is mandatory on all tours. Winter boots, warm winter hats, mitts and a wind-proof outer layer are highly recommended. Some operators have limited winter gear available for loan, and usually for a small fee. While most tour operators accommodate young riders, children under two are not typically permitted due to safety reasons and the risks associated with extended exposure to the elements. Each company's policies differ so visitors are best advised to enquire about any age restrictions upon booking. Due to its increasing popularity, dog sledding tours fill up quickly during peak visitor times, including Christmas week, Family Day weekend (the third Monday in February), Valentines weekend and the Easter long weekend. Early reservations are strongly recommended.
A HISTORY OF CANADIAN DOG SLEDDING
A mode of travel for hundreds—perhaps thousands—of years, dog sledding has played a critical role within Canada's rich heritage and history. Thought to have originated among early Inuit cultures of the North, the tradition of using dog power as transport was vital for hunting, trade and even police patrol. With the advent of modern vehicles and added infrastructure, dog sledding has shifted to become a recreational and sporting pursuit accessible to all. In addition to the rise in popularity of sledding holidays, professional long-range racing challenges are cropping up nationwide and beyond, including the famed Iditarod race of the Alaskan interior.
AN OVERVIEW OF DOG SLEDDING
The most critical aspect of the sport is the highly trained dog team; the dogs are individually hand-picked for certain sledding roles and develop amazing endurance and speed over the course of their careers. Typically, teams are made up of northern breeds like Siberian huskies and the Alaskan racing husky, which have a strong work ethic, are extremely athletic, have great social temperaments and are well-adapted to cold climates. The highly astute team is well-versed in directional commands as taught by their musher (driver) and each dog has a role in the overall functioning of the run.
Anywhere from six to 12 dogs can comprise a team, which pulls a small, specialized sled from which the musher stands and commands the team. The front section of the sled is used to carry equipment or passengers. A gang-line runs from the sled down the middle of the dog team, which is attached to the line via harnesses. "Hike" (go), "easy" (slow down), "gee" (go right), "haw" (go left) and "whoa" (stop) are common commands heard while dog sledding, but vary according to driver.
DOG SLED ADVENTURES IN THE ALBERTA ROCKIES
For its uniqueness and ties to history, the time-honoured tradition of dog sled touring is an ideal way to reconnect with nature. Pristine, backcountry trails inaccessible by road are within reach when explored by a highly adapted sled and an eager team of trained dogs. Numerous choices for dog sled holiday adventures are available in the mountain towns of Banff, Canmore, Jasper, Lake Louise and the Icefields Parkway Region. All tours are facilitated by a professional guide and offer hands-on learning opportunities and interaction with the dog team. Operators also offer an array of packages to choose from, including two-hour, half-day, full-day, evening and multi-day adventures. Passengers have the opportunity to try their hand at mushing or just sit back and enjoy the ride. Companies like Howling Dog Tours in Canmore offer packages for riders aged two and up and even provide complimentary shuttle services from most major hotels in both Canmore and Banff.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
The touring season typically runs from December to April, dependent on snowfall and weather conditions. Weather is a critical consideration to make when partaking in a dog sled expedition; winter in the Alberta Rockies can be very cold with average temperatures ranging from 5°C (23°F) to -15° (5°F), not factoring in wind chill. Because safety and comfort are key to enjoying a day on the trails, warm winter clothing is mandatory on all tours. Winter boots, warm winter hats, mitts and a wind-proof outer layer are highly recommended. Some operators have limited winter gear available for loan, and usually for a small fee. While most tour operators accommodate young riders, children under two are not typically permitted due to safety reasons and the risks associated with extended exposure to the elements. Each company's policies differ so visitors are best advised to enquire about any age restrictions upon booking. Due to its increasing popularity, dog sledding tours fill up quickly during peak visitor times, including Christmas week, Family Day weekend (the third Monday in February), Valentines weekend and the Easter long weekend. Early reservations are strongly recommended.
Tour Booking Service
Jasper Rafting
