Summer Glacier Dogsledding Tour From Girdwood

Nestled in the heart of Alaska’s stunning wilderness, the summer glacier dogsledding tour from Girdwood offers adventurers a chance to experience the thrill of this iconic Alaskan activity. Participants will soar over the rugged terrain in a helicopter before landing on the awe-inspiring Punchbowl Glacier, where they’ll meet experienced guides and friendly sled dogs. With the opportunity to drive the sled themselves, guests will gain a newfound appreciation for the tradition and skill behind this unique mode of transportation. But the true magic lies in the connection forged between human and canine, as the tour unveils a captivating glimpse into the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race and the enduring spirit of the Alaskan wilderness.

Key Points

• This tour offers a unique opportunity to experience dogsledding on the remote Punchbowl Glacier, accessible only by helicopter.
• Guests will meet experienced guides and friendly sled dogs at a base camp, learning about the mushing lifestyle and the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.
• Participants will have the chance to drive the sled themselves across the alpine snowfield, a highlight of the tour.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required to walk on uneven snow and hold onto the sled.
• The tour includes a round-trip helicopter flight, transportation, and gratuities, with a maximum group size of 10 travelers.

Overview of the Tour

The summer glacier dogsledding tour from Girdwood begins with a short helicopter flight to the remote Punchbowl Glacier, where guests meet their guide and sled dog team at a base camp.

There, they’ll learn about the mushing lifestyle and the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race before experiencing the thrill of dogsledding across an alpine snowfield.

Guests will have a chance to drive the sled themselves, though small infants must ride on an adult’s lap. A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as guests must be able to walk on uneven snow and hold onto the sled.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers.

Inclusions and Pickup/Meeting

The tour includes round-trip shared transfer from Girdwood hotels and bed & breakfasts, as well as gratuities.

Guests can meet the guides and sled dogs at the Girdwood Airport or request pickup from their hotel/B&B, arriving 30 minutes before the tour time.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult. Small infants can ride on an adult’s lap.

Appropriate attire for snow and rain is required, as is a moderate level of physical fitness.

There’s a weight limit of 290 pounds per guest, and guests must be able to walk on uneven snow and hold onto the sled.

The tour has a maximum of 10 travelers.

Accessibility and Requirements

This tour isn’t accessible for wheelchair users. Guests must be able to walk on uneven snow and hold onto the sled, as the activity requires a moderate level of physical fitness.

Small infants can ride on an adult’s lap, but children must be accompanied by an adult. There’s a weight limit of 290 pounds per guest.

The experience takes place in a remote setting, so participants need to dress appropriately for the snow and rain.

While it’s not suitable for everyone, the glacier dogsledding tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about the mushing lifestyle and try your hand at driving a sled across an alpine snowfield.

Tour Highlights

During the summer glacier dogsledding tour from Girdwood, guests embark on a short helicopter flight to the remote Punchbowl Glacier.

Once there, they’ll meet the experienced guides and friendly sled dogs at a remote base camp.

Travelers will learn about the mushing lifestyle and the legendary Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race as they prepare for their thrilling dog sledding adventure.

The highlight of the tour is the chance to actually drive the sled across the alpine snowfield, taking in the stunning glacial scenery.

This unforgettable experience allows guests to connect with the dogs and the traditions of this unique Alaskan activity.

Duration and Pricing

The summer glacier dogsledding tour from Girdwood lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, including the round-trip helicopter flight to the Punchbowl Glacier and the dog sledding experience. The pricing for this tour is as follows:

Package	Adult	Child (4-12)	Infant (0-3)
Dogsledding Experience	$399 per person	$250 per child	Free
Round-trip Helicopter	Included	Included	Included
Gratuities	Included	Included	Included

The tour offers a unique opportunity to immerse in the mushing lifestyle and witness the thrill of dog sledding across an alpine snowfield, all while enjoying the scenic helicopter ride. Advance booking is recommended to secure your spot on this popular summer adventure.

Guests and Group Size

The summer glacier dogsledding tour from Girdwood has a maximum group size of 10 travelers, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience on the Punchbowl Glacier.

Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult, and small infants can ride on an adult’s lap.

Guests must be able to walk on uneven snow and hold onto the sled, and there’s a weight limit of 290 pounds per guest. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so guests need a moderate level of physical fitness.

This smaller group size ensures guests receive individualized attention from the knowledgeable guides and have the chance to fully enjoy the mushing lifestyle.

Dress Code and Packing

Guests should dress appropriately for the snow and rain conditions they’ll encounter on the summer glacier dogsledding tour from Girdwood. Warm, waterproof layers are a must, as the tour takes place on the Punchbowl Glacier, where the weather can be unpredictable.

Sturdy, insulated boots that can handle uneven snow and ice are also recommended. Guests should avoid wearing cotton, which absorbs moisture and won’t keep them warm. Instead, they should opt for synthetic or wool fabrics that wick away sweat and provide insulation.

Plus, gloves, hats, and neck warmers are essential to protect from the cold. By dressing properly, guests can stay comfortable and focused on enjoying the unique experience of dog sledding on an alpine snowfield.

Reviews and Ratings

Numerous travelers have left glowing reviews of their summer glacier dogsledding experience from Girdwood, awarding it a prestigious Badge of Excellence.

With 134 reviews, this tour has clearly resonated with past participants. Reviewers consistently praise the professional and knowledgeable guides, the thrill of dog sledding across the alpine snowfield, and the unforgettable views from the helicopter ride to the remote glacier basecamp.

Many describe the experience as the highlight of their Alaska trip, with several noting it exceeded their already high expectations.

The tour’s high rating and enthusiastic reviews suggest it delivers an exceptional, once-in-a-lifetime dogsledding adventure amidst the stunning Alaskan landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Experience Level Required for Dog Sledding?

For dog sledding, a moderate level of physical fitness is required. Participants must be able to walk on uneven snow and hold onto the sled. There’s a weight limit of 290 pounds per guest.

Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment on the Tour?

Guests are welcome to bring their own camera equipment on the tour. The guides recommend bringing a camera that can withstand cold temperatures and snow. Guests should be prepared to securely hold their camera while on the sled.

How Are the Sled Dogs Cared for and Trained?

The sled dogs are well-cared for and extensively trained. They receive proper nutrition, veterinary care, and regular exercise to ensure their health and fitness for the challenging work of dog sledding. Their training focuses on obedience, endurance, and teamwork.

Can I Request to Drive the Sled for the Entire Tour?

Guests can request to drive the sled for the entire tour, but this is ultimately at the guide’s discretion. The guides will assess each guest’s abilities and comfort level before deciding if they can safely drive the sled throughout the experience.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation and refund policy typically allows for a full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations may result in a partial or no refund, depending on the tour operator’s policy. Travelers should review the policy prior to booking.

Recap

This exhilarating dog sledding tour on the Punchbowl Glacier offers a one-of-a-kind Alaskan adventure. Guests can learn about the Iditarod while driving the sled with a team of friendly huskies across the alpine snowscape.

With experienced guides, moderate difficulty, and stunning wilderness scenery, this is a thrilling way to connect with the traditions of dog sledding in the heart of Alaska’s backcountry.