Where to Go Dog Sledding in Colorado

Snowy weather doesn’t slow us down. From skiing to sledding and ice skating, we do our best to make the most of Colorado’s winter sports. But one winter sport that just recently make its way onto our radar is dog sledding. Our daughter studied the famous Alaskan Iditarod dog race in school. Then our family watched “The Call of the Wild” and of course had to also re-read the book. This all got me thinking about the opportunities for dog sledding in snowy Colorado.

Header photo courtesy Snow Mountain Ranch, YMCA of the Rockies.

Ever wonder what it would be like to yell, “Mush!” and then race through the trees on a sled pulled by powerful dogs in the dramatic winter mountain landscape? Certainly the ride is the focus of the experience. But most Colorado dig sledding outfitters also offer the opportunity to get to know these special Colorado dogs and learn what goes into caring for and training them.

Whether you are a local resident or visiting on vacation, you may enjoy spending time with special dogs who have a unique skill of pulling a sled through the snow covered mountains. If you would love to have this fun experience with some fantastic four-legged friends while spending time in Colorado, there are plenty of opportunities for you to go dog sledding in Colorado. Check out this list of places to go dog sledding in Colorado.

Snow Mountain Ranch, YMCA of the Rockies

At Snow Mountain Ranch in Granby, Colorado, there are a wide variety of activities to enjoy both in the summer and winter. One of the most memorable winter activities is dog sledding. Typically a variety of dog sled rides are available.

For those who are new to the dog sledding experience and those want a whole-family experience the Short Dog Sled Ride is a great introduction. The dogs pull riders on a two-mile trail that winds through open meadows with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. There’s also a Long Dog Sled Ride that is 50 minutes long and accommodates one adult and one child. Additionally, you could opt for a Full Immersion Dog Sledding Experience or customizable Group Dog Sledding.

Note: Things look a little different for winter 2020-2021. Due to COVID-19 precautions only 30-40 minute long dog sledding rides are being offered on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.  Just one person at a time can ride. Children must be 10 years or older to ride.

Durango Dog Ranch

Family owned and operated with decades of experience, Durango Dog Ranch receives five-star reviews on TripAdvisor. Here you can take an Adventure by Dogsled Two-Hour Tour that is a great introduction to mushing. Or, opt for the faster and colder option of a Sunset Sled Two-Hour Tour.And, during the summer you can even take a Summer Kennel Tour that includes bikejoring where the dogs pull you on the bike or scooter. Every option is a great experience where you are sure to learn so much you didn’t know about dog sledding on the trail.

Insider Tip: There are so many things to do in Durango with kids. Be sure to check out some of these other fun activities!

Mountain Paws Dog Sled Tours

If you are in or around the Pagosa Springs, Colorado, you can make reservations for a dog sled tour at Mountain Paws Dog Sled Tours. The highly-rated company offers an unforgettable experience to its guests. You will get the chance to ride with incredibly friendly dogs that enjoy pulling sleds. The entire experience is very hands-on. Guests can get the dogs ready for the journey by putting on their harnesses and attaching them to the sleds. A tour guide is available to provide you with exciting information about the dogs and the area.

Alpine Adventures Inc.

Located in Leadville, Colorado, Alpine Adventures Inc. is another great outfitter to take you dog sledding. It is the closest outfitter to Vail in Colorado. The scenery is fantastic, and the dogs are well-trained. Before going on your sledding adventure, the tour guide will introduce you to the dogs while giving you the chance to learn a bit about them. The tour guide will steer throughout the journey, but will also give you the opportunity to try it out for yourself.

Mountain Musher

While in or around Bond, Colorado, Mountain Musher is a great place to contact for your dog sledding needs. The energetic and trained dogs are ready to work and look forward to pulling the sled during the six-mile trek. You will ride on many hills and make several turns during the trip, all of which adds to the excitement of riding around on a dog sled.

Good Times Adventure Tours

Stop by Good Times Adventure Tours, this a well-maintained area with loved ones to go on an exciting dog sledding adventure with beautiful huskies. Each person will get the opportunity to ride in the sled and steer it with the dogs running in the front. The sights are amazing, and many people have spotted different wildlife animals while on tour, including moose. As a dog lover, you will spend time petting and loving on these pups when your ride is over.

Dog Sled Rides of Winter Park

Providing services in Tabernash, Colorado, the Dog Sled Rides of Winter Park is a popular place to visit for dog sledding. You can take a ride in the morning, afternoon, or even at night. The dogs are hardworking, affectionate, and well-trained. If you love Huskies, you are going to enjoy this experience to the fullest. The family-owned business prides itself on providing impeccable service. If you want to see these friendly dogs in action, you can make your reservations for a dog sled ride today.

Note: Check to see if Dog Sleds of Winter Park is operating before going. They did temporarily put their operations on hold.

If you would like to go dog sledding in Colorado, these are professionally run places are all worth checking out. No matter which area you choose, you will spend time with well-trained, affectionate sled dogs who all enjoy their jobs and taking guests sledding.