Dog Sledding: A True Winter Experience, as a Ride
Given that you have visualized once or even dreamed of going through the snowy forests being pulled along by a pack of eager huskies, then you had already stood halfway in learning what dog sledding is about. It is not the problem of speed and cold winds it is the building a connection with animals, the belonging to the landscape and touch of the real.
In which place of the World can you go dog sledding?
It is not everybody you come across in any snowy village. Dog sledding is best in locations far characteristically north or mountainous with deep snow, and long winters. Scandinavia is a preferred place, particularly Finland, Sweden and Norway. In Alaska and northern Canada one will find longer trips into the wilderness to appeal to those seeking remote beauty. You will also get tours in Iceland, Greenland and parts of the Alps in France and Switzerland.
What is the Best Time to Go?
Snow plays a significant role and thus dog sledding is entirely a winter activity. Majority of the tours begin operation in late November and carry on to early spring between March or in April. Mid-winter is good the best is of course January and February when the snow gets thick and the daylight is once again increasing. In case you are interested in viewing Northern Lights in your trip, you should schedule the darker part of the season.
What You Require on a Trip?
The only requirement is that you are not a professional athlete but dog sledding is basic fitness. There are also other times when you will be guiding the sled or even getting a little up the hill. Severe winter clothes are imperative and where you are supposed to think of putting on layers of clothing, wearing insulated boots, and snow-resistant outerwears and thick gloves. Gear is handed out in some tours, and it is a good idea to enquire beforehand. You should have an open mind and a little patience as well, since you are not playing with a snowmobile when working with the dogs.
WHERE TO GO
Popular Destinations for Dog Sledding
Alaska
USA
Lapland
Finland, Sweden, Norway
Quebec
Canada
Colorado
USA
Sledding opposition dog sledding Is not the same
Regular sledding can be confused with dog sledding, especially when you grew up, and you would slide down the hill on a plastic sled. However they are quite different things. Sledding is pure fun, short, quick and propelled by gravity. Dog sledding is however a cooperative thing with animals and is actually on real terrain and not a hill in the park.
FAQ on dog sledding
What is sledding game?
Before you are ready to get on a sled? No problem. You will find lots of sledding games to play online, everything, including dog sled simulators to arcade winter racing games. No, they are not going to replace the real thing, but it is a funny means to study the fundamentals or simply spend some time before your next snowy vacation.
Is sledding dog safe?
Well, yes, so long as you book through some well-established guide or travel company. They will ensure proper care of the dogs, show you how all this functions, as well as ensure that the route is not too demanding. All you need to do is to read reviews in advance and ask questions in case you feel uncertain.
Are there any cases of kids going dog sledding?
Absolutely! A lot of tours are family oriented. Younger children will act as passengers of the sled, whilst their older siblings (and parents) can have the chance to ride along. All the companies will have an age and size restriction, so you should be clever and make a check before the booking.
What has made people love it so much?
It is like one thing you cannot really explain until you do it. Try to imagine complete silence and the crunching of the snow and breathing of dogs. There would not be engines, not other screens, only you, the trail and the team of people that propels you onwards. It is quiet, strong and somehow magical.
To People Who Like a Rather More Than a Vacation
It is not a tourist destination that takes a back seat and tells them to put up their feet. Dog sledding is a sport that is about those who want to feel the cold against the face, the pull of the dogs and the rhythm of moving across the virgin snow. You will be taught some of the more basic mushing commands, will discover how the dogs are able to pull together and most likely become a little in love with your team by the end.