Dog Sledding & Northern Lights with Skookum Expeditions in Fairbanks
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
30 minutes to multiple days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good health with moderate fitness to handle cold, standing on sled runners, and some hiking during camping trips.
Overview
Experience Alaskan wilderness like never before with Skookum Expeditions’ dog sledding tours and Northern Lights adventures. Meet the sled dogs, camp in the backcountry, and chase the aurora over Fairbanks’ pristine snowfields.
Details
Fairbanks, Alaska, lies deep in the heart of a wild, frozen landscape where winter paints the sky with the aurora’s brilliant greens and blues. Skookum Expeditions brings visitors face-to-face with this raw wilderness through authentic dog sledding adventures and immersive backcountry camping experiences. Founded by a passionate family who lives and breathes mushing, Skookum offers trips that go beyond the typical tourist route, inviting guests into the daily rhythms of their sled dog teams.
From quick 30-minute sled rides and kennel tours to multi-day backcountry mushing camping trips, each experience showcases the intensity and grace of these Alaskan huskies. Owner Lauro—praised for his welcoming spirit and deep knowledge—guides travelers over glacier trails and snowy forests, sharing stories shaped by decades of family wilderness experience, including Neil’s memoir on life in the wild. Guests meet eager sled dogs, playful puppies, and witness the care behind every harness and lead.
Beyond the dogs, Skookum Expeditions highlights one of Fairbanks’ most sought-after natural wonders: the Northern Lights. Their dedicated Aurora Hunters Tour offers a front-row seat to the shimmering spectacle in the clear Alaskan sky, far from light pollution. The combination of thrilling sled rides, cozy campfires, and the ethereal aurora makes this a singular Arctic adventure.
Fairbanks itself is a gateway to the Alaskan interior’s towering spruce forests, frozen rivers, and rugged peaks. Skookum’s family-run approach, commitment to dog welfare, and deep regional knowledge create an experience that feels personal and rooted in tradition. Whether you’re chasing crisp winter air on a sled or camping under the stars, these tours offer a genuine window into Alaska’s remote, snowy wilds.
Adventure Tips
Dress in layered, insulated clothing
Temperatures can plummet; wear moisture-wicking base layers, warm mid-layers, and a windproof outer shell.
Wear waterproof boots with good traction
Snow and ice often cover the trails; sturdy boots help prevent slips and keep feet warm and dry.
Protect your face from windburn
Bring a balaclava or scarf to shield cheeks and nose during sled rides in frigid winds.
Charge your camera batteries fully
Cold weather quickly drains batteries; keep spares warm inside your clothing for Northern Lights photography.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Remote glacier views accessible only via dog sled
- Secluded frozen rivers for quiet wildlife sightings
Wildlife
- Moose wandering near wooded trails
- Arctic foxes commonly seen in the distance
History
Dog mushing is a centuries-old Alaskan tradition vital to indigenous communities and frontier survival.
Conservation
Skookum Expeditions follows sustainable practices to minimize environmental impact and prioritizes humane treatment of sled dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Glacier overlook on backcountry trips
- Open tundra plains
- Dog kennel with sled teams ready
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Insulated winter jacket
Keeps you warm during sled rides and overnight camping.
winter specific
Waterproof snow boots
Protect feet from wet snow and provide traction on icy surfaces.
winter specific
Thermal base layers
Maintain warmth closest to skin during cold outings.
winter specific
Headlamp or flashlight
Useful for nighttime when out on Northern Lights or camping tours.
winter specific