WINTERSVILLE WINTER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Wintersville’s Kennel Loop: Group Dog Sledding with 55 Alaskan Huskies
A 1/2-mile beginner loop for groups to take turns riding and driving sleds — this guide lays out the flow, logistics, and longer-tour options.
Wintersville’s Kennel Loop: Group Dog Sledding with 55 Alaskan Huskies.
Adventure brief
Wintersville’s Kennel Loop: Group Dog Sledding with 55 Alaskan Huskies
On the outskirts of Wintersville, Positive Energy Outdoors runs a compact, group-focused dog-sledding program centered at its kennel: a short, groomed 1/2-mile beginner loop where churches, scout troops, sports teams and families rotate riding and driving sleds and spend time meeting the dogs and learning mushing basics.
Positive Energy Outdoors offers an authentic dog sledding experience in the winter landscapes of their local area, making it a standout choice for outdoor adventure enthusiasts seeking a high-energy, culturally rich activity. Located in a region renowned for its expansive snow-covered forests and scenic vistas, this business provides a perfect gateway for visitors eager to try one of the most iconic winter sports. The trip is more than just a ride; it’s an immersion into the world of traditional dog sledding, where a team of energetic huskies pulls you across pristine winter terrain, tracing routes through fir-lined trails and glistening snowfields. Participants get the chance to learn about the dogs’ training and teamwork, enjoying close-up encounters with these agile athletes. The business is a crucial part of the local outdoor scene, blending outdoor recreation with a glimpse into the area’s history as a hub for sled dog racing and exploration. The routes showcase breathtaking winter scenery, with chances to see local wildlife like snowshoe hares and territorial foxes, while the knowledgeable guides share stories of the region’s icy past. The terrain varies from flat, groomed trails to challenging wooded paths, catering to different experience levels. This experience is perfect for families, adventure seekers, and anyone wanting a genuine winter thrill. Positive Energy Outdoors emphasizes sustainability, maintaining trail conservation and animal welfare standards to preserve these winter landscapes. Their dog sledding trips are a highlight in the area’s winter calendar, drawing visitors looking for an active, memorable outdoor outing. Whether you’re seeking a fun family adventure or a unique way to experience the winter wilderness, this activity offers a spirited and authentic connection to the area’s natural beauty.
Route Schematic
Itinerary Schematic
A concise sequence of stops from arrival to your turns on the loop.
Arrival & clothing check
When you arrive at the kennel the staff conducts a clothing check to make sure everyone stays warm during the program.
Group welcome & safety talk
A large-group welcome is followed by a sled-dog safety briefing covering how to ride and how to drive the sled.
Kennel tour — meet the dogs
The tour visits the kennel where you meet many of the 55 Alaskan husky sled dogs and learn about mushing equipment and dog care.
Harnessing & hitching
Participants help harness and hook up their dog teams under staff direction before hitting the trail.
Groomed 1/2‑mile loop
Groups take turns riding and driving on a groomed beginner loop near the kennel; sleds carry 1–2 people and guides ride with each sled.
Participants should follow staff safety briefings; PEO may adjust routing or format for group size, weather, or operational needs.
What the day feels like
What a group day on the kennel loop feels like
The program begins at the kennel with a clothing check, followed by a large-group welcome and sled-dog safety briefing. After a tour where you meet the dogs and examine mushing equipment, the group helps harness teams and rotate through runs on a 1/2‑mile groomed loop; sleds carry 1–2 people and an experienced PEO guide rides with each sled so everyone can both drive and ride.
THE DOGS
Meet 55 friendly Alaskan huskies
The kennel tour introduces participants to many of Positive Energy Outdoors’ 55 Alaskan husky sled dogs and explains the care and equipment that keep the teams ready to run.
THE LOOP
A groomed 1/2‑mile beginner circuit
Groups take turns on a short, groomed loop near the kennel that’s tailored for first-timers — plenty of time for photos, petting the dogs, and both riding and driving the sleds.
THE FORMAT
Hands-on harnessing and guided sledding
Participants help harness and hook up teams, learn sled safety, and run double-driver sleds so everyone can have a turn driving while an experienced PEO guide accompanies each sled.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this format works best for — and when to call ahead.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
You will begin at the kennel where staff perform a clothing check to ensure everyone stays warm during the program.
Dress for winter conditions; the operator will perform a clothing check to confirm participants are adequately warm.
Sleds carry 1–2 people and each sled will have an experienced PEO guide accompanying it.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the sled loop?
The group sled program runs on a groomed 1/2‑mile beginner loop near the kennel.
How many dogs are at the kennel?
The kennel includes 55 Alaskan husky sled dogs that you’ll meet on the tour.
Can everyone drive a sled?
Yes — groups take turns riding and driving; double-driver sleds allow everyone to drive, and an experienced PEO guide accompanies each sled.
Are there longer mushing options?
Yes — PEO offers a 2‑hour Bog Tour (5–8 miles) and a 3‑hour Island Lake Tour (12+ miles) for small groups; call for more information on availability and group sizing.
What if my group is larger than 20?
Contact Positive Energy Outdoors for pricing and arrangements for groups larger than 20, as well as for school and corporate field-trip programming.
What happens when we arrive?
On arrival the staff conduct a clothing check, give a large-group welcome and sled-dog safety talk, then lead a kennel tour before harnessing teams and using the loop.
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: 2026-08-26T19:16:50.933Z
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.