Dog Sledding

Dog sledding - Growing in popularity
Dog sledding is a winter sport growing in popularity and possibly offers the most exciting and rewarding way of accessing areas of unspoiled wilderness that would otherwise be impossible to visit. You don't have to be an arctic explorer to experience the thrill of dog sledding and many companies now offer trips to in resorts including Banff in Canada, Winter Park in Colorado, Chamonix in France and the Italian Dolomites. There are different types of sled depending on the purpose, for example freight sleds are most commonly used in the tourist industry as they can be used to carry both passengers and supplies. These are bigger and heavier than the type of sled used in racing which are raised well above the surface of the snow for extra speed. Whereas the smaller, faster sleds can be pulled by one or two dogs, the slower freight sleds require a team of dogs and this is the most recognizable set up as seen in movies and documentaries.   

Dog sledding - Back to basics
Dog sledding has a long and important history with exploration - most famously with the race to the North Pole but these days, snow mobiles are much more common due to speed and ease of use. Dog sledding is a much loved and cherished tradition and one that the tourist industry is helping keep alive. Free from the noise and pollution caused by snowmobiles, sledding is an eco-friendly and entirely natural way to explore snow-covered wilderness. The experience is also like stepping back in time to a more simple age, free from the dependence on modern machinery. Of course, on a dog sledding holiday you will not be expected to rough it too much. Warmth and comfort are essential to the visitors experience and expert guides will make sure you are well fed and looked after. There is the option to have day trips or overnight stays in teepees and cabins. What could be more magical that going to sleep under the stars and waking up to a white wonderland and the freshest air imaginable?   

Dog sledding - Huskies
Huskies are almost always used to pull the sleds. Bred as working dogs, these hardy, eager and loyal animals enjoy their task so you shouldn't feel guilty at being propelled along the snow using their power. They respond almost instinctively to the commands and directions of the trainers and you might be offered the opportunity to learn how to 'mush' and drive a sled. This is an art in itself and not easily mastered so you may prefer to remain as a passenger rather than take the reigns. Taking a back seat will give you all the time you need to soak up your surroundings as depending on your destination you are likely to get very close to all kinds of wildlife such as elk, reindeer and eagles not to mention some stunning scenery. Your expert local guides will be on hand at all times to teach you about the flora, fauna and geography of the wild terrain as you explore. Dog sledding is a truly unique experience and a holiday you will never forget.

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