moderate
3–5 hours
Participants should have a moderate fitness level capable of standing and balancing on a sled for extended periods and handling physical activity in cold weather.
Discover the thrill of dog sledding through Alaska’s snowy wilderness paired with a mesmerizing display of the Northern Lights near Fairbanks. This unique winter combo adventure offers both cultural immersion and natural wonders.
5-8 Hours • Ages 6+ • Mush Under The Aurora! + Snowshoeing! + Photography & Surprise Goodies
5–8 Hours
This is our super combo tour of Dog Sledding and Aurora Viewing held at Sluice Box Sled Dogs in Ester, Alaska just west of Fairbanks. This tour is all about authentic Alaska in a spectacular setting, with a perfect northward view for those lights to show up! You will be dog sledding at night via a headlamp or the moon! The goal is to dog sled under the Aurora while those lights shine brightly in the sky. Of course we cannot guarantee that the aurora will be out during your time on the dog sled, as they appear anytime between 8pm and 3am, though generally the sweet spot is between 11pm and 1am. We can guarantee and absolutely epic night of fun for all. The mushing will be around our property and out through the Aspen Grove atop the nearby ridge, with plenty of stops for rest, photos, dog cuddles and northern light views. Before, during, and after your dog sledding jaunt, you will have time to visit the other dogs, learn about the homestead, partake in some easy going snowshoeing, and roast marshmallows. Our Aurora host will offer a few photo portraits of your party with the dogs and some video if conditions allow. During the evening you will learn about the Aurora all while hanging out in our Arctic Oven Tent. This type of tent is how people in arctic climates have survived for centuries, ours is a bit more modern. It's heated with a wood stove and is well insulated with lots of room to relax. Your Aurora host will give a space weather talk about the Aurora while waiting for those magical lights to appear in the sky. While waiting she can help with photography setup of your own cameras or cell phones. There are also rental cameras offered, and full professional photo packages are available at reasonable rates. Photos are always taken if the Aurora shows up and around 5 portraits are included in your tour price. While waiting, we may entertain you by snowshoeing or roasting marshmallows or dazzle you with some live music. There are plenty of walkable groomed trails throughout the property and forest, night walks or snowshoeing are some of our favorite things to do. We also have a few tricks up our sleeves that will make you feel like a kid again within our winter wonderland.
The Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon and cannot fully be predicted. We do NOT guarantee aurora sightings! We do our best to track the live data constantly being reported by NOAA and NASA. The aurora is visible in Fairbanks 9 out of 10 nights from August through April when it's dark outside, at night. Some shows are faint, others are great! Thick clouds are the only thing that fully prevents viewing. This tour can be switched to a mini chase tour as weather dictates. If the lights don't show up we will invite you back another night if our schedule and yours allows us to do so.
Leaving a tip is not required. Gratuity is NOT included in the cost of the tour. However, if you enjoyed yourselves while adventuring with us, please consider tipping your Guide/s. Any amount is appreciated and lets our Crew know how much you valued your experience. The Dogs also appreciate this gesture!
Wear multiple layers including thermal base layers and an insulated outer shell to stay warm during dog sledding in Arctic temperatures.
Schedule your trip on nights with minimal cloud cover for optimal Northern Lights viewing conditions.
Wear waterproof boots and gaiters to keep feet dry and comfortable during the sled ride and standing outside at night.
Follow all instructions carefully when handling sled dogs to ensure safety for you and the animals.
Dog sledding has been integral to Alaska’s indigenous Athabaskan peoples and gold rush era transport since the late 19th century.
Operators follow sustainable dog care practices and respect local wildlife habitats, minimizing ecological footprints during tours.
Provides crucial protection against Alaska’s freezing temperatures during the sledding portion.
winter specific
Keeps your core warm under all other clothing layers throughout the adventure.
winter specific
Ensures your feet stay dry and warm; essential for traversing snowy trails and icy terrain.
winter specific
Useful for navigating paths before and after dark, plus assisting with safety near the kennel.
winter specific