PAGOSA SPRINGS DOGSLED FIELD GUIDE
Musher for a Morning: Drive a Team of Alaskan Huskies across the San Juan Backcountry
Drive your own team of Alaskan/Siberian huskies for roughly 5–6 miles near Pagosa Springs; this guide explains what to expect, the physical limits, and what to bring for a 2.5–3 hour outing.
Musher for a Morning: Drive a Team of Alaskan Huskies across the San Juan Backcountry.
Adventure brief
Musher for a Morning: Drive a Team of Alaskan Huskies across the San Juan Backcountry
On a Drive Your Own Team Tour out of Pagosa Springs you don the boots, learn to steer, and take the reins of a team of Alaskan and Siberian huskies across scenic backcountry trails in the San Juan Mountains. The outing centers on hands‑on instruction, harnessing the dogs and driving a sled—or sled on wheels depending on snow—through terrain chosen for current conditions.
Experience the thrill of driving your own team of sled dogs through the stunning winter landscapes of Pagosa Springs with Mountain Paws. This private, hands-on adventure offers a rare chance to learn the art of dogsledding from expert guides while steering your own dog team through pristine snow-covered trails. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic winter adventure, this activity combines the excitement of mushing with breathtaking views of Colorado's rugged terrain. Along the way, you'll bond with energetic huskies and benefit from personalized instruction that makes this experience suitable for newcomers and seasoned adventurers alike. Whether you're seeking a fun family outing or an exhilarating solo trip, Mountain Paws creates a memorable day on the snow, immersing you in the tranquility and power of dog-powered travel. After your run, enjoy warm beverages and share stories by the fire, making this a truly special winter escape in Pagosa Springs.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic & Key Stops
A typical outing moves from orientation to harnessing, a guided run on backcountry trails, and a warm‑up at the finish.
Orientation and Driving Instruction
Begin with an orientation where guides teach driving technique and safety, and guests prepare equipment before meeting the dogs.
Harnessing and Team Introduction
Guests help harness and get to know their team of 5–8 huskies, then set out under the guide’s supervision.
Trail Run (5–6 miles)
Drive across chosen backcountry trails for approximately 5–6 miles, with stops along the way to switch drivers and take photos.
Finish: Warm Drink and Refreshments
After the run there’s time to warm up with a hot drink and homemade goodies.
Trail selection depends on snow conditions; participants must meet operator weight and fitness guidelines and the operator reserves the right to adjust route or equipment (sled vs. wheeled sled) as conditions require.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Drive a Working Pack of Huskies
Each sled is pulled by a working team of five to eight Alaskan/Siberian huskies; you’ll learn to harness and handle the dogs, and a professional guide accompanies the tour for the safety of both guests and animals.
5–6 Miles Through the San Juan Backcountry
The drive covers roughly 5–6 miles on scenic trails near Pagosa Springs; the operator selects the trail based on snow conditions so the exact route can vary from one departure to the next.
An Intimate, Hands‑On Experience
Tours are deliberately small—only two sleds per outing (maximum four adults)—so you get genuine time handling the team, switching drivers on the trail, and warming up afterward with hot drinks and homemade goodies.
What the day feels like
What It Feels Like to Drive Your Own Team
The day begins with orientation and hands‑on instruction: you set up equipment, help harness the dogs, and learn driving technique before taking the sled. Once underway you cover roughly 5–6 miles through backcountry trails, stopping to swap drivers and take photos; the whole outing lasts about 2.5–3 hours depending on trail conditions.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits—and who should call first.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Dress in layers and come very warm: insulated winter boots, warm glove liners (and thicker ski gloves or mittens for the trail), warm ski jacket with hood, snow pants, fleece or wool hat, scarf or neck protection, and warm wool socks. Consider air‑activated hand and foot warmers.
Glove strategy matters: thin glove liners are recommended for handling dogs, with thicker gloves or mittens used once you’re on the sled. Multiple sock layers are not recommended; choose warm wool socks.
Plan for roughly 2.5–3 hours total depending on trail conditions; come prepared to be outside for multiple hours.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on trail conditions.
How far do we drive?
You will drive your team for roughly 5–6 miles through the backcountry.
What are the weight limits?
There is a 400 pound weight limit per sled; the sled cannot hold an individual who weighs more than 250 pounds. If any one person weighs more than 220 pounds (female) or 250 pounds (male), please call to discuss whether the tour is appropriate.
How many people are on each tour?
Mountain Paws takes out only two sleds per tour for a maximum of four adults; two adults share a sled (one driver and one passenger).
Is there a waitlist or reservation advice?
There is a waitlist option that can notify you automatically of cancellations; holiday periods—especially Christmas weeks—sell out early, so book well in advance.
Do you provide shuttle service?
Mountain Paws does not provide a shuttle service. The meeting place will be confirmed a few days before the tour and the trail is chosen based on snow conditions.
What happens if there isn’t enough snow?
On Thanksgiving the operator may run tours on wheeled rigs if there is insufficient snow—call for details and current plans.
Are single‑driver sleds available?
Yes—reserving a sled for a single driver is possible for an additional surcharge.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-07T13:06:30.532Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.