STEAMBOAT SPRINGS DOGSLED FIELD GUIDE
Mush Your Own Dog Sled — Drive Alaskan Huskies Across Steamboat Springs’ Backcountry
The Grizzle-T Dog & Sled Works 1:30 PM tour is a roughly 3.5-hour outing with about two hours on-sled over a 12.5‑mile private trail; this guide explains the flow, gear, and restrictions so you arrive ready.
Mush Your Own Dog Sled — Drive Alaskan Huskies Across Steamboat Springs’ Backcountry.
On a winter afternoon outside Steamboat Springs you step into a world of wind-scoured white and lean, eager Alaskan Huskies. Over roughly two hours on a private 12.5‑mile backcountry trail you’ll learn to mush your own sled, swap driving duties with your partner when conditions and weight allow, and finish with a warming hut, hot drinks, and time to snuggle the dogs.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
12.5 Miles of Private Backcountry
This half‑day adventure covers a private 12.5‑mile trail through Colorado backcountry, giving extended on‑sled time to feel the pace and read the terrain while guides operate snowmobiles nearby for safety and support.
Learn to Mush, Then Drive
You’ll receive 10–15 minutes of instruction before departing, then alternate roles—drivers stand on the runners while passengers ride in the basket—so everyone gets a chance to mush when weight and conditions permit.
Hands‑On Time with Alaskan Huskies
Teams are made up of Alaskan Huskies; after the run there’s time back at the kennel to greet, thank, and snuggle the dogs in the warming hut while enjoying hot cocoa and snacks.
What the day feels like
What the Trip Feels Like
The outing unfolds with a 1:30 PM check‑in and equipment check at the warming shed, a short practical briefing, then the jolt of the team pulling you into open country. Guides on snowmobiles ride ahead or behind to keep the line safe; you’ll stop at scenic points for breaks, photo opportunities, and to rest the dogs, then return to the kennel for refreshments and a warm‑up.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The tour is scheduled as a 1:30 PM meeting with a total outing duration of about 3.5 hours and approximately two hours on the sled; shuttle pickup or trailhead meeting options are used for arrival logistics.
Arrive dressed and ready for the trail in ski‑style layers: insulated, wind‑ and water‑resistant outerwear, above‑ankle insulated winter boots (no wedges), warm hat, water‑resistant mittens (mittens preferred), goggles or sunglasses, hand and toe warmers, sunscreen, and a camera; water bottles are welcome but the operator does not supply bottled water.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the dog sled tour?
The full outing is about 3.5 hours long with approximately two hours of on‑sled time.
Where and when do we meet for the 1:30 PM tour?
Meeting is at 1:30 PM with shuttle pickup or at the trailhead/kennel as arranged; expect to check in at the warming shed on arrival.
Can I drive (mush) the sled?
Yes—guests may mush their own sled but must be physically capable of standing on the sled for 2+ hours, have good balance and core strength, and disclose any recent injuries or surgeries before booking.
What is the pregnancy policy?
Guests beyond 20 weeks pregnant cannot participate in any sled ride; those under 20 weeks should consult their healthcare provider and understand they participate at their own risk.
How should I dress and what should I bring?
Dress as you would for a day of skiing: warm layers with moisture‑wicking base layers, insulated ski jacket and pants, insulated winter boots, warm hat, mittens, goggles or sunglasses, hand and toe warmers, sunscreen, and optional camera; bring a water bottle if desired.
How many people share a sled?
Typically there are two people per sled; for smaller children the operator may occasionally place three people on a sled depending on guest size and weight considerations.