Dogsledding is a unique way to explore British Columbia’s wilderness in winter.
Many resorts and operators offer dogsledding tours and memorable backcountry experiences. Sleds are pulled by enthusiastic teams of dogs, usually Siberian or Alaskan huskies, and glide quietly along snow-covered trails. Scenery along the route can include mountain views, frozen lakes or powder-filled meadows.
No experience is needed to enjoy dogsledding, and it’s possible to choose your level of participation. Sit cocooned and cosy in the sled. Or, learn commands from your guide (gee, haw, hike!), stand on the sled runners and drive the dog team yourself.
BC also provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to have mail delivered via dogsled. During the Gold Rush Trail Dog Sled Mail Run, dogsled teams carry souvenir envelopes along a historic, 100-km (62-mi) route from Quesnel to Wells; the mail then enters the regular postal system and is sent to recipients around the world.
Learn more about Dogsledding in BC's regions:
Dogsledding Adventures in BC
In Vancouver, Coast & Mountains, Whistler offers invigorating excursions through the snow-covered forests of the Soo or Callaghan valleys on sleds pulled by Alaskan racing huskies. Whistler is the Host Mountain Resort for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic & Paralympic Winter Games. Dogsledding enthusiasts in the Thompson Okanagan can enjoy backcountry routes with abundant snowfall and mountain scenery. Tours are available near Wells Gray Provincial Park, Valemount and Sun Peaks Resort.
Fernie Alpine Resort, Kimberley Alpine Resort and Panorama Mountain Village, all in the Kootenay Rockies, are family-friendly ski destinations that also offer dogsledding tours.
Tours in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast head over snow-blanketed rolling hills and through forest trails. Combine a dogsledding adventure with a stay at one of region's many guest ranches or lodges.
What You Need to Know
- Operators offer tours ranging from half an hour to multi-day excursions.
- Dogsledding is usually available from December to March.
- In some cases, you may have the opportunity to drive the sled, or you can simply sit in the sled and relax. Guests may not be permitted to drive the sled in icy conditions for safety reasons.
- Some dogsled tours have minimum age requirements.
- Bring appropriate clothing including snow pants, winter coat, winter boots, hat and gloves. Don’t forget your camera – dogsledding provides great photo opportunities.
- Some tours will provide transportation to and from the trailhead, while others require you to meet them there.
- Accommodation near dogsledding tours can include ski resorts, lodges, guest ranches and hotels.
Have you had a BC Dogsledding adventure? Write a blog about it and share your experiences!