Colorado Dog Sledding
Dog sledding in Colorado is more than just a ride; it’s an immersive backcountry experience. Most tours range from 1.5 to 2 hours and cover anywhere from 6 to 12 miles of pristine wilderness.
For your ultimate Colorado summer vacation guide, it is worth noting that while most dog sledding tours occur in winter, several operators offer "dry-land mushing" in the summer using wheeled carts!
However, for the traditional winter experience, Colorado is a world-class destination where you can trade the sounds of the city for the rhythmic panting of a dedicated husky team.
What to Expect on Your Adventure
- Mush Your Own Team: Unlike many other locations, many Colorado outfitters (like Grizzle-T in Steamboat and Good Times in Breckenridge) actually teach you how to drive the sled. You’ll learn the commands: "Gee" (right), "Haw" (left), and "Hike!" (start).
- The Relay System: Some larger tours use a relay style where guests switch between driving the dogs, riding in the sled, and sitting in a passenger sleigh pulled by a guide’s snowmobile—ensuring everyone gets the best photos and "driver's seat" views.
- Mid-Trail Breaks: Many tours include a halfway stop at a "wall tent" or cabin for hot cocoa, homemade cookies, and "dog snuggles," giving the athletes a rest and you a chance to learn each dog's personality.
Top Colorado Dog Sledding Operators by Region
| Region | Featured Operator | Notable For |
| Breckenridge | Good Times Adventures | Located just 10 mins from downtown; 6-mile relay tours with Siberian Huskies. |
| Steamboat Springs | Snow Buddy Sled Dog Adventures | Focuses on "Learn to Mush" and sunset dinner excursions in Routt National Forest. |
| Leadville | Alpine Adventures | High-altitude tours (10,000+ ft) with stunning views of Mt. Elbert and Mt. Massive. |
| Vail / Wolcott | Mountain Musher | Family-operated on a private ranch; known for frequent wildlife sightings like elk and fox. |
| Aspen / Snowmass | Krabloonik | Historic kennel offering backcountry tours paired with gourmet wild-game dining. |
| Durango | Durango Dog Ranch | Expert mushing instruction in the San Juan National Forest near Purgatory Resort. |
Pro-Tip: Book Early & Dress for the Iditarod
Reservations: These tours are high-demand and often sell out months in advance, especially for December and March.
Attire: Wear exactly what you’d wear for a day of skiing: waterproof layers, warm boots, and goggles (to protect your eyes from snow kicked up by the dogs' paws).
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