dog sledding dog mushing
alaska adventure travel

"Vast caribou herds were awesome as was the beauty of the country and Clara’s superb cooking."
- RRupert & Anita, Hong Kong

DOG MUSHING FAQ's

Q: Will I be cold?    A: Certainly not. We equip you with the finest, warmest Arctic gear in all sizes.

Q: Do I need to spend a lot of money on clothing?    A: No, simply bring skiing or winter backpacking clothes. We provide an Arctic parka, bibs, mitts, boots and sleeping bag. A checklist of suggested items to bring is included in the booking packet.

Q: Will I sleep on the ground?     A: Only if you fall out of bed!!! Our deluxe tent camp features comfortable cots/mattress' and is heated with clean, odorless LP gas. The lodge at Golsovia has both oil heat and a super wood stove.

Q: How many dogs will be on my dog mushing team?    A: This depends on your size and weight, generally 4 to 7. We are not racing each other and it's enjoyable to always be in control of your canine friends.

Q: Do the dogs bite? Never ever!!!    A: They are the gentlest, kindest dogs and they are the product of thousands of years of being raised by Eskimos and Athabaskans.

Q: Do the dogs get cold?     A: They are blessed with thick fur and underneath it a downy layer to keep them warm in the coldest temperatures. We feed them high-calorie meals and snacks at regular intervals.

Q: Can I help care for my own team?    A: Absolutely, many consider this the high point of the adventure. You snack your own team on the trail and are encouraged to assist the staff feeding the morning and evening main meals. You will learn quickly with our assistance how to harness up your dogs.

Q: What kind of meals should I expect for myself?    A: We serve hearty, wholesome, homemade meals throughout your adventure. Special guest needs are always incorporated into the menu.

Q: How cold will it be?    A: The average winter temperature is plus-10f., but the extremes range from -40 to +40. Guests are prepared for every weather possibility with their provided gear. dog mushing

Q: What if an emergency develops?    A: Each trip is accompanied by one or more snowmobiles, although they are typically out of sight or making your personal video. Staff are first aid/CPR and we maintain strict radio/telephone contact with our base in St. Michael.dog sledding

Q: Do I need previous experience?    A: Absolutely not, you are in the care of experts who guide and assist you every step of the way.

Q: Are older dogs ever available for adoption?    A: Yes, every year we "retire" several distinguished veterans.

Q: Are there any birds to see in the winter?    A: Yes, we always see our state bird, willow ptarmigan. Also gyre and peregrine falcons, ravens, bald and golden eagles, snow buntings, and snowy owls. ( Also a variety of songbirds.) dog mushing

Q: How long each day are we actually driving our dogteam?    A: This depends a lot on the weather and snow conditions. Generally 3-6 hours/day.

Q: Is there an age limit?     A: Our guests over the years, driving their own teams, range from 7 into the 70's. Children under 7 often travel with parents and take turns actually being in control of the sled.

Q: Do I need to be in top physical condition for this alaska adventure travel vacation?    A: No....as in the famous Iditarod, your dogs do most of the work and are the real heroes.

Q: Do you do family alaska adventure travel trips?     A: Absolutely, they are the most enjoyable trips.

Q: Do you have insurance?    A: Completely, with Alaska Business Insurance.

Q: Will I get a chance to drive a snowmobile?    A: Absolutely, we have several stationed at our Golsovia River lodge for use on your "day off". dog sledding




Suggested Reading List


alaska adventure travel

DOG MUSHING

  • BORN TO PULL by Bob Cary and Gail de Marcken---explains everything I would. Pfeifer-Hamilton Publishers, 210 West Michigan, Duluth MN 55802 (hardbound, about $27, super-excellent)
  • Mush With Pride, box 84915 Fairbanks, AK 99708 guidelines for keeping/running dogs, very good, paperback 8 1/2 X 11, 34 pages, $3.00
  • Shadows on the Koyukuk, by Austin family friend Sidney Huntington, Alaska NW Books, box 10306 Portland, OR 97210
  • The Race to Nome (1925 diptheria epedimic) Nulbay Associates, 835 Lakechime drive, Sunnyvale, CA 94089

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    ATIA • Nome Chamber of Commerce • Master Guide #130
    Fully Insured • AWRTA • Mush with Pride


    Since 1976, Quality Eco-Adventures
    Alaska Dog Sledding
    #1 Iditarod Ave. • St. Michael, AK 99659 • Toll free 877-923-2419 • Fax: (907) 923-3272

    Copyright © 1999 Austin's Alaska Adventures. No part may be duplicated without the written permission of Austin's Alaskan Adventures..