Wapusk Adventures is the best-known dog sledding outfit in Churchill, run by Dave Daley, known as the Big Dog, with his family and a small team who have made Churchill home. The kennel has 43 sled dogs and operates as a long-distance racing kennel, and Dave founded the Hudson Bay Quest sled dog race in 2004, which continues today. Guests come to learn the art of dog sledding from him, riding behind a team on snow trails through the boreal forest near town. The company also describes night tours when the northern lights appeared, and stays in a log cabin and a trappers tent in the forest, so dog sledding and aurora viewing can be part of the same trip. The kennel focuses on dog care, and visitors meet the dogs and see how they live. This is a small family operation rather than a large attraction, so expect personal attention and limited departures, and plan by contacting them directly.
Be clear about timing. Dog sledding is a winter activity, and the company's own description refers to winter dog sledding conditions, very cold nights and an aurora season in the fall and winter. As of early November 2026 snow cover varies, so ask directly what is running on your dates. The page we read does not publish tour schedules, prices or a booking process, so contact them through the contact page or by email to ask about dates, trip length and cost. Do not assume a fixed price or timetable until you have an answer.
What you can expect is a hands-on experience with a real team. The dogs are athletes bred to run, and watching a team work is part of the experience. A musher guides you through the basics, and the quiet of a sled gliding through spruce forest is hard to find elsewhere. Longer stays add log cabin or tent accommodation and the chance to watch the sky at night. Because the kennel is a racing operation, the dogs are cared for by people who know them individually.
Prepare for the cold. Wear thermal layers, an insulated outer layer, warm boots, a hat, a neck warmer and mittens, and ask what the operator provides. Keep your camera warm in an inside pocket. Dog sledding fits well beside a northern lights evening or a visit to the Itsanitaq Museum, and it appears as a day in some multi-day Churchill packages, including the six-day polar bear package on this site.
What to expect
The experience
A guided dog sled ride behind a racing kennel team, with time to meet the dogs and, on longer stays, nights in a log cabin or tent.
Best time
Winter, when there is snow on the trails and the northern lights are strongest from January to March.
How long
Varies from a short ride to a multi-day stay; ask the operator for options.
Tips
Contact the kennel directly for dates and prices, dress for severe cold and keep a camera warm.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Winter visitors who want a hands-on experience with a real racing team.
- Families
- Children who enjoy animals will love it, but ask about age limits and cold exposure when you contact them.
- Couples
- A memorable shared adventure, especially combined with a night under the aurora.
- Pair with
- The Itsanitaq Museum and an aurora evening.
- Time needed
- Allow a half day for a ride, longer for an overnight stay.
Good questions
Who runs Wapusk Adventures?+
It is run by Dave Daley, known as the Big Dog, with his family and Team Wapusk. The kennel has 43 sled dogs and is a long-distance racing kennel.
When can I go dog sledding in Churchill?+
Dog sledding is a winter activity that depends on snow conditions. Contact the kennel to confirm what is running on your dates.
How do I book and what does it cost?+
The page does not publish prices or schedules. Use the contact page or email the kennel to ask for dates and costs.
Can I stay overnight?+
The company describes stays in a log cabin and a trappers tent in the boreal forest. Ask what is available for your dates.
Can I see the northern lights on a dog sledding trip?+
The company mentions night tours when the aurora appeared. The best aurora months are January to March, so aim for those if the lights matter.
