Dog sledding is the daytime activity visitors most often pair with the northern lights, and Yellowknife has a long working tradition behind it. On this tour you ride a sled pulled by a team of huskies, with a guide handling the dogs, and finish with a warm-up in a cabin. The operator is Yellowknife Vacations, a family-run business, and a host reply on the tour page says the full outing runs about an hour and a half, including the sled ride and the cabin warm-up. Travellers rate the experience highly, with a solid number of reviews. The ride itself is short, so think of it as a taste of mushing rather than an expedition, and expect the dogs to be loud and excited before the start. The shoulder weeks between the fall aurora season and the winter season that starts in mid-November are often cloudy, so check each operator's first winter departure date before you plan around it.
What it is like
The team waits keyed up, then goes quiet the moment the sled moves. You are a passenger on this outing, and the guide explains how the dogs are handled. On a cold clear day, with frost on the spruce and low sun on the snow, it is one of the simplest ways to feel the north.
Timing and season
Dog sledding needs snow, and the reliable winter season starts around mid-November and runs into April. Early in the season there may be too little snow, or the operator may not yet have started its winter schedule, so confirm the first operating date. Late February and March are generally pleasant, with longer days and a milder feel than the deepest cold of midwinter.
Tips
Wear the warmest boots, mitts and layers you have, since sitting still on a sled is colder than walking. Keep a phone in an inner pocket and use a wrist strap, and listen to the guide about where to sit and how to handle the dogs. If you want a longer mushing experience, Aurora Village lists a four and a half hour dog sledding outing with a guaranteed daily departure.
What to expect
The experience
A guided sled ride behind a team of huskies, ending with a warm-up in a cabin.
Best time
Mid-November to April, with late February and March offering longer days and more comfortable temperatures.
How long
About an hour and a half including the ride and the cabin warm-up.
Tips
Dress in your warmest layers, confirm the winter start date, and keep a phone on a strap.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone wanting a classic northern daytime activity with minimal effort.
- Families
- A strong family choice for children who can sit still and tolerate the cold, with dogs that are the main attraction.
- Couples
- A fun shared activity before an aurora night.
- Pair with
- A guided aurora tour in the evening and a snowmobile ride on another day.
- Time needed
- Allow half a morning or afternoon including transport.
Good questions
How long is the dog sledding tour?+
A host reply on the tour page says the full experience is about an hour and a half, including the sled ride and a warm-up in the cabin. The riding portion itself is shorter.
Do I drive the sled myself?+
This outing is presented as a ride behind a team, with a guide handling the dogs. Ask the operator in advance if you want a hands-on mushing option.
When does dog sledding run?+
It follows the snow season, which generally runs from around mid-November to April. Confirm the first operating date if you are visiting at the start of the season.
What should I wear?+
Wear insulated boots, mitts, a warm hat and layered clothing, because you will be sitting still. Carry a phone on a strap.
Is it good for kids?+
Yes for children who can sit still in the cold, and the dogs tend to be the highlight. Dress them very warmly and check the operator's age rules.
