Alaska is known as a summer destination, when the snow melts and the midnight sun rises high into the sky. While summer can bring a multitude of adventures, winter in Alaska is when this state truly shines.
A common misconception of the Last Frontier is that wintertime is full of darkness and cold. While temperatures can plummet here and the sun does set early, winter is also the season when Alaska is at peak beauty, as fresh snow blankets the landscape and transforms Alaska into a paradise for winter enthusiasts.
Boasting an inspiring combination of breathtaking natural beauty and adrenaline-pumping activities, Alaska is a dream destination for those seeking unforgettable winter sports adventures. This is the state where dog sledding and snowmobiling reign supreme, and are still common modes of transportation for many locals. For visitors, winter is a prime time to test your hand at mushing or jump on a snowmobile (or snowmachine, if that’s your preferred term) to experience the wintry thrills in this beautiful wilderness.
Dog Sledding vs. Snowmobiling: Which Suits You Best?
Both dog sledding and snowmobiling offer unique ways to experience Alaska's winter landscape, but they cater to different preferences.
Dog Sledding offers a serene, organic, and historical experience. Ideal for dog lovers and those seeking a deeper connection with nature, it offers an immersive journey into Alaska's traditions. Expect to be entranced by the soft padding of paws against snow and the engaging personalities of the sled dogs. This is a great option for families with small children, as the sleds also offer some protection against the elements.
Snowmobiling, on the other hand, delivers adrenaline-filled thrills. With the ability to cover more ground quickly, it provides access to expansive and varied terrains. If speed, flexibility, and mechanical sports resonate with you, snowmobiling is likely your perfect match. This is a great option for couples or families with older children, as you are much more exposed to the elements while riding and many tour operators have a minimum age for riders.
Ultimately, the choice between dog sledding and snowmobiling depends on your personal preferences and comfort level. Both guarantee unforgettable adventures in Alaska's winter wonderland. You can also easily opt to do both on your trip, and we will dive into each option more below.
Dog Sledding in Alaska
Dog sledding, also known as mushing, holds a significant place in Alaska's history and culture. Used as a primary mode of transportation by native Alaskan cultures and later by gold rush prospectors, dog sledding has evolved into a popular recreational and competitive sport. One of the most iconic symbols of this sport, the famous Iditarod Trail race, occurs every March and is one of the most anticipated events of the year for Alaskan communities.
While you don’t have to traverse the grueling 1,000 miles of the Iditarod, visitors to Alaska in the winter can still have a taste of what dog sledding is all about. Dog sled tours are popular throughout the state in places that receive steady snowfall. These tours are a great way to experience riding in a sled at the hands of an experienced musher. Most tours also include a kennel tour, allowing you to not only to enjoy a beautiful ride through a winter wonderland, but get plenty of puppy pets and licks afterwards.
Some top dog sledding tours in the state include the following:
- Seavey's Ididaride Dog Sled Tours: Run by the Seavey family, winners of several Iditarod races, this tour offers an immersive dog sledding experience in the scenic landscapes around Seward.
- Juneau Dog Sledding & Glacier Helicopter Tour: A helicopter ride with spectacular aerial views of the Juneau Icefield, followed by a dog sled ride across the glacier—this unique experience is an adventure-lover's dream.
- Denali Dog Sled Expeditions: Near the famed Denali National Park, you can choose from various tours, some even spanning several days, allowing you to fully experience the exhilaration of mushing.
- Black Spruce Dog Sledding: Based in Fairbanks, these tours allow interaction with friendly huskies and the thrill of guiding your own sled through the wilderness.
- Paws for Adventure: Operating from North Pole, Alaska, they offer dog sledding adventures suitable for all ages and experience levels, ranging from short trips to overnight camping expeditions.
Snowmobiling in Alaska
When it comes to snowmobiling, Alaska is an undisputed champion. With an extensive network of trails passing through awe-inspiring landscapes, snowmobiling here is nothing short of exceptional. Depending on your preference, you can opt for a guided tour or rent a snowmobile for your own adventure. If you want to take a rental out for a ride, check out these local favorite spots (just be sure you are comfortable with driving and operating a snowmachine on your own):
- The Denali Highway: This scenic highway becomes a snowmobiler's dream from mid-April to mid-May, offering views of Denali, the Alaska Range, and the Talkeetna Mountains.
- The Iditarod Trail: Open from late March to early May, this trail offers views of the Alaska Range and the Yukon River.
- The White Mountains National Recreation Area: This vast wilderness offers miles of snowmobile trails from late December to early April, with vistas of the Alaska Range and the Kuskokwim Mountains.
- The Kenai Peninsula: This popular winter recreation spot opens from late December to early April, providing views of the Chugach Mountains and the Cook Inlet.
If you’re not quite ready to go out on your own, you can opt for a guided snowmobile ride. These tours let you drive your own snowmachine, but you follow a guide through the wilderness. This helps you stay safe and find some of the best scenic spots. Check out one of these favorite tour loops. Each loop may have multiple tour operators in the area, allowing you for more options when booking.
- The Denali Backcountry Tour: Navigate through the iconic Denali National Park and Preserve, admiring glaciers, mountains, and potentially spotting wildlife.
- The Kenai Peninsula Tour: Traverse the varied terrain of the Kenai Peninsula, weaving through forests, around mountains, and by glaciers.
- The Talkeetna Mountains Tour: Experience the majestic Talkeetna Mountains, famous for their stunning vistas and abundant wildlife.
- The Valdez Tour: Embark on a journey through the Valdez Mountains, revealing spectacular mountain, glacier, and wildlife views.
Staying Safe in Alaska's Winter Wonderland
While the adventures are thrilling, it's vital to ensure safety during your winter escapades in Alaska. Before setting off, ensure you're adequately trained and licensed for your chosen activity. Dressing in layers, bringing sufficient food and water, and informing someone of your travel plans and expected return are essential precautions. Always check the weather conditions, follow all trail rules and regulations, and maintain respect for the environment. Leave no trace to keep Alaska's pristine landscapes beautiful for future explorers.
Embarking on a winter journey in Alaska is an experience that echoes with the chorus of excited dogs, the hum of snowmobile engines, and the silent serenity of snow-covered wilderness. Whether you're a fan of dog sledding or snowmobiling, this winter wonderland is ready to welcome you to your next adventure. With its expansive natural beauty and unique modes of transportation, there's no better place to enjoy the splendor of winter sports than Alaska.
