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Drive your own dog team through official Iditarod training trails with Martin Buser’s Happy Trails Kennel in Big Lake, Alaska. This unique, hands-on mushing adventure blends expert instruction, breathtaking views, and up-close encounters with Alaskan Huskies.
Drive your own dog team through official Iditarod training trails with Martin Buser’s Happy Trails Kennel in Big Lake, Alaska. This unique, hands-on mushing adventure blends expert instruction, breathtaking views, and up-close encounters with Alaskan Huskies.
Book with Martin Buser's Happy Trails Kennel
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Operated by Martin Buser's Happy Trails Kennel · Big Lake, Alaska
Situated roughly 90 minutes north of Anchorage in Big Lake, Alaska, Martin Buser’s Happy Trails Kennel offers an unmatched immersion into the raw power and spirit of Alaskan huskies. This isn’t just a dogsled ride—it’s a hands-on introduction to mushing on official Iditarod training trails, where you’ll learn to command your own kennel team under expert guidance.
The Learn to Mush experience begins indoors with an engaging video that sets the stage, explaining the history and technique behind Alaskan dog sledding. From there, you’ll receive all the necessary winter gear tested for Alaska’s conditions, ensuring comfort against the cold. Your guides, seasoned mushers themselves, provide step-by-step instruction on sled driving and dog handling, so beginners can feel confident behind the sled.
Once acquainted with the sled, you’ll practice behind a snow machine to get the feel of steering before hooking up your own team of Alaskan Huskies. Then it’s time to hit the Iditarod trails for a 6-mile run, with the guide traveling ahead by snow machine. The trail snakes through snow-dusted forests and open valleys framed by views of Mt. Susitna and, on clear days, the majestic Denali in the distance.
Back at the kennel, the adventure rounds out with a warm, welcoming environment to bond with the dogs—many of whom have raced in national events—and enjoy complimentary hot drinks and cookies. This genuine connection to the animals and the landscape makes Happy Trails Kennel stand out as a distinctive Alaskan outdoor adventure, fusing adrenaline, learning, and local culture into one memorable experience.
For anyone seeking an active, authentic way to understand Alaskan winter wilderness, Martin Buser’s Learn to Mush offers a rare chance to drive a dog team on world-famous trails alongside real racing legends.
moderate.
Up to 3 hours.
Basic physical fitness needed; ability to stand on the sled and handle dogs in cold conditions.
Yes, participants must be at least 16 years old to join the mushing experience.
No prior experience is necessary; the guides provide full instruction suitable for beginners.
Dress in warm, layered clothing and waterproof boots. Additional gear is provided if needed.
You’ll drive your dog team for approximately 6 miles on Iditarod training trails.
Yes, your guide will stop for photo opportunities featuring Mt. Susitna, Denali, and more.
You’ll return to the kennel to meet the dogs and enjoy hot drinks and cookies in the visitor center.
Martin Buser is a four-time Iditarod champion whose kennel trains competitive sled dogs on historic trails.
Happy Trails Kennel maintains responsible practices ensuring minimal environmental impact on Alaska’s fragile winter trails.
Martin Buser's Happy Trails Kennel is a sled-dog operation based in Big Lake, Alaska, that opens the doors of an Iditarod training kennel to visitors. The kennel offers three signature experiences: the Summer Kennel Tour, a guided visit featuring a video about the Iditarod trail, a dog sled demonstration, and a chance to cuddle puppies; the Dog Sled Ride, which runs on actual Iditarod training trails across frozen lakes and through serene forests and includes presentations and cozy treats at the on-site visitor center; and the Learn to Mush program, a hands-on mushing lesson that begins with an engaging video, teaches guests to drive a sled on Iditarod trails, and concludes with warm drinks and cookies. Guests meet Alaska Huskies up close and learn about sled-dog care, training, and the rhythms of mushing life. Tours are led by seasoned staff—Summer Kennel Tours mention a veteran guide, while rides and training sessions are guided by experienced mushers—ensuring safety and authentic instruction on Iditarod trails. The kennel balances thrilling dog sled rides with educational components: video introductions, informative presentations, live demonstrations, and supervised hands-on opportunities. Visitors can expect clear guidance, close interaction with friendly Alaskan Huskies, and comfortable amenities at the visitor center. Located in Big Lake, the kennel provides accessible access to Iditarod training terrain and delivers memorable wildlife-free, family-friendly outdoor experiences for people interested in sled-dog culture, mushing basics, or a one-of-a-kind Alaskan adventure. Advance reservations are recommended to secure specific tour times and guarantee hands-on opportunities with the dogs.
Book with Martin Buser's Happy Trails Kennel