LAKE LOUISE DOGSLED FIELD GUIDE
Mushing 101: Drive a Dog Team from Lake Louise to the Continental Divide
A 1.5-hour, 16 km dogsled outing that lets riders take the helm across Kicking Horse Pass and briefly into Yoho National Park.
Mushing 101: Drive a Dog Team from Lake Louise to the Continental Divide.
Mushing out of the Lake Louise area, this short but rigorous outing threads through Banff’s snow-carved valleys and up toward the Continental Divide. Over roughly 90 minutes you’ll cover a 16 km route that touches the Kicking Horse Pass and briefly crosses into Yoho National Park, with the option to drive your own team or ride and take in the view.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Cross the Continental Divide
The tour follows a 16 km trail that reaches the Continental Divide and briefly crosses into Yoho National Park, offering high-mountain vistas where provincial boundaries meet.
Take the Helm — Or Relax
Designed for participants who want to drive their own sled, the outing accommodates two guests per sled with the chance to swap drivers; a private guide provides on‑the‑fly instruction and will take over when sections grow technical.
Kicking Horse Pass and Yoho Scenery
The trail runs through the Kicking Horse Pass corridor, showcasing the alpine landscapes of Banff and the adjoining Yoho National Park as you move between valleys and ridgelines.
What the day feels like
What the outing feels like
Expect an active, high-mountain burst of wilderness — about 90 minutes on a 16 km route that alternates steady runs and technical sections. One guest typically drives while the other rides, with a private guide riding up front to teach dog personalities, local history and to assist through steeper or trickier stretches; if you prefer to ride they will take over the team and let you enjoy the views.
THE ROUTE
Cross the Continental Divide
The tour follows a 16 km trail that reaches the Continental Divide and briefly crosses into Yoho National Park, offering high-mountain vistas where provincial boundaries meet.
THE EXPERIENCE
Take the Helm — Or Relax
Designed for participants who want to drive their own sled, the outing accommodates two guests per sled with the chance to swap drivers; a private guide provides on‑the‑fly instruction and will take over when sections grow technical.
THE SETTING
Kicking Horse Pass and Yoho Scenery
The trail runs through the Kicking Horse Pass corridor, showcasing the alpine landscapes of Banff and the adjoining Yoho National Park as you move between valleys and ridgelines.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The outing runs approximately 1.5 hours over a 16 km trail.
Each sled accommodates two guests; participants must be at least 12 years old.
The trail travels through the Kicking Horse Pass corridor and briefly crosses the Continental Divide into Yoho National Park.
A private guide/interpreter accompanies the sled, provides on‑the‑fly instruction about the dogs and surroundings, and assists through technical sections.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 1.5 hours.
How old do participants need to be?
Participants must be at least 12 years old.
Can I drive the sled myself?
Yes — the outing is designed so you or your partner can drive most of the trip, with the guide providing instruction and help through technical sections.
How far do we travel and where does the trail go?
The route covers approximately 16 km, ascending through the Kicking Horse Pass corridor and briefly crossing the Continental Divide into Yoho National Park.
What if I prefer not to drive?
If you prefer to ride rather than drive, the guide can take over the team and you can sit back and enjoy the scenery.