All Ages • 3.5 ~ 4 Hours
Discover the magic of winter on the Sunset Sled Tour in Ely, Minnesota, where you’ll drive your own dogsled team across snow-covered forests. This hands-on adventure combines learning, stunning scenery, and close connections with spirited sled dogs.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3.5–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness to handle standing on a sled runner and some light physical activity in cold conditions.
Wildlife
History
Dog sledding has been a crucial mode of winter transport in northern Minnesota since the early 1900s, originally used for mail and supplies in remote areas.
Conservation
The tour operator emphasizes low-impact practices to preserve trail conditions and minimize disturbance to local wildlife.
Cast Outdoor Adventures
All Ages • 3.5 ~ 4 Hours
Cast Outdoor Adventures is a guided outdoor activity provider based in Ely, Minnesota, offering fishing and dogsledding experiences on and around the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA). The company operates pontoon fishing trips that explore local lakes with up to eight hours on the water, and offers optional cooked shore lunches. Cast Outdoor Adventures also runs dogsledding tours—an Immersive Full Day Sled Tour and shorter Sunset and Midday Sled Tours—where guests meet and work with a team of sled dogs, learn harness fitting, sled setup, and driving techniques. Each dogsledding experience emphasizes hands-on participation, photo opportunities, and close interaction with the dogs before, during, and after the runs.
Guides are local to Ely and familiar with regional trails, fishing spots, and seasonal conditions. Equipment for fishing trips and dogsled tours is provided or arranged by the operator; guests receive briefings on safety, gear use, and trip expectations before departure. Trips are tailored to participant preferences and skill levels, from relaxed family outings to active, immersive wilderness days. Reservations are recommended during peak seasons to secure preferred dates and times.
Cast Outdoor Adventures focuses on delivering authentic, educational, and safe outdoor experiences that highlight northern Minnesota’s lakes, forests, and wildlife. The business is an option for travelers seeking guided fishing in Ely or a genuine dogsledding encounter in and around the BWCA. Trips accommodate small groups and friends and can be customized to guest preferences. Photographers and nature lovers will find ample opportunities to capture northern landscapes and wildlife. Seasonal availability.
Location
Ely, MN
Gateway to the BWCA
Tours Offered
4 tours
Fishing and dogsledding options
Experience Type
Guided trips
Hands-on and guided
Trip Length
Up to 8 hours
Pontoon fishing maximum
Reserve a preferred date with Cast Outdoor Adventures — guided trips in Ely, MN fill quickly during peak season.
Dress in layers
Temperatures can drop quickly during the tour, so wear moisture-wicking base layers and insulated outerwear.
Bring waterproof boots
Snow and ice are constant companions on the trail; waterproof boots will keep your feet warm and dry.
Protect your hands
Wear warm, waterproof gloves to maintain dexterity and warmth while handling the sled and dogs.
Charge your camera
Golden hour lighting and active sled dogs make for great photo opportunities—be ready!
Thermal base layers
Keeps body heat regulated under cold conditions.
winter
Insulated, waterproof gloves
Essential for warmth and maintaining control on the sled.
winter
Waterproof winter boots
Protects feet from snow and cold during the ride.
winter
Camera or smartphone
Capture memorable moments on trail and with the dogs.
winter