Adventure brief
Full Day Dog Sledding Adventure
Drive your own dog sled team through Yukon’s stunning winter wilderness with Boreal Kennels. This full-day adventure blends thrilling trails, expert guide insight, and the chance to see the northern lights.
Carcross, Yukon, offers a rare escape into one of Canada’s most pristine winter landscapes, where Boreal Kennels invites adventurers to take the reins of a dog sled team for a full-day journey through the Yukon wilderness. This isn’t just a ride—it's a hands-on immersion into northern winter travel, driven by a team of energetic huskies eager to run across snow-blanketed trails carved between dense spruce forests and frozen lakes. Here, the Yukon’s rugged terrain provides an unmatched backdrop of sprawling boreal forests, steep granite outcrops, and sweeping valleys shaped by millennia of glacial movement.
Boreal Kennels stands out not only for its expertly managed dog teams but also for its focus on sharing authentic survival skills and wilderness knowledge. Led by seasoned guides, each expedition combines the thrill of mushing with valuable lessons on staying safe and comfortable in cold conditions. The guides’ deep familiarity with the land enhances every moment, offering insights into wildlife tracks and how indigenous peoples historically navigated these vast northern stretches.
Beyond the rush of the trail, participants have a chance to witness the northern lights flickering against the night sky—a rare celestial display amplified by the remote location’s near-total absence of light pollution. After a day spent managing your sled and bonding with the huskies, evenings bring a welcome respite by campfire warmth and hearty meals that reflect the rugged spirit of northern hospitality. This experience captures the essence of Yukon’s winter: challenging yet deeply rewarding, invigorating yet peaceful.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast eager to try dog sledding for the first time or looking to deepen your connection with Canada’s north, Boreal Kennels offers a genuine, memorable winter adventure within one of the country’s most iconic wilderness areas.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Dress in layers for warmthessential
Start with thermal base layers and add fleece or down to adapt to changing temperatures.
- 02Keep camera batteries warmwarning
Cold drains batteries quickly—store spares inside your jacket to preserve charge.
- 03Follow your guide’s instructions carefullyessential
Proper sled handling and dog commands ensure safety and an enjoyable ride.
- 04Prepare for limited cell signalinfo
Remote trails have spotty coverage; inform someone of your plans before departure.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Thermal base layers
Keeps body heat close to skin to maintain warmth.
winterEssentialInsulated waterproof gloves
Protects hands while managing cold sled lines and cold air.
winterEssentialBalaclava or neck warmer
Essential for face protection against biting winds and frost.
winterEssentialSturdy winter boots
Keeps feet warm and dry on snow-covered trails.
winterEssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Emerald Lake’s vibrant turquoise waters, The Carcross Desert – the world's smallest desert
Local fauna
Moose, Arctic fox
Historic heritage
Carcross lies along historic Yukon Gold Rush routes, blending Indigenous culture with frontier history.
Mindful exploration
Boreal Kennels is committed to sustainable practices that minimize environmental impact and protect the fragile northern ecosystem.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Trail ridgelines overlooking valleys, Campfire gathering spots, Open frozen lakes
- Subjects
- Mushing dogs in motion, Aurora borealis overhead, Snow-dusted forest landscapes
- Best times
- Golden hour, Nighttime for northern lights, Midday for dog team action shots
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
What safety measures are in place during the dog sledding trip?
Experienced guides provide safety briefings and lead all tours, ensuring proper handling of sleds and dogs.
Is prior dog sledding experience required?
No prior experience is needed; guides teach you all necessary skills during the adventure.
Can children participate in the dog sledding adventure?
Yes, children 5 years and older are welcome to join this full-day trip.
What happens if the northern lights don’t appear during my trip?
While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the guides share multiple ways to enjoy the wilderness and camp atmosphere regardless.
What is included in the full-day dog sledding package?
The trip includes a safety briefing, a team of 4 to 6 dogs, hot drinks and lunch, snacks after the tour, and expert guiding.
Can Boreal Kennels provide transportation to the trailhead?
Yes, pick-up service is available or you can meet at their location on South Klondike Highway in Carcross.