Discover the thrill of full-day dogsledding through Minnesota’s BWCA with Cast Outdoor Adventures. Learn mushing skills, meet your canine team, and navigate some of the region’s most scenic winter trails.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness to handle standing on the sled, hiking occasional rough sections, and participating in dog care.
Wildlife
History
The BWCA was designated a wilderness area in 1964, protecting its vast forest and lakes from development and preserving traditional uses like trapping and recreation.
Conservation
Cast Outdoor Adventures practices Leave No Trace principles, emphasizing the protection of delicate winter ecosystems and respectful interaction with sled dogs.
Cast Outdoor Adventures
Discover the thrill of full-day dogsledding through Minnesota’s BWCA with Cast Outdoor Adventures. Learn mushing skills, meet your canine team, and navigate some of the region’s most scenic winter trails.
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 insulated, layered clothing
Temperatures can drop sharply; multiple layers keep you warm and dry during the full-day dogsledding tour.
Bring a camera with extra batteries
Cold weather drains batteries quickly—pack spares to capture the stunning landscapes and energetic sled dogs.
Stay hydrated throughout the day
Cold air can dehydrate you quickly; carry water and drink regularly during breaks on the trail.
Follow your guide’s instructions carefully
Proper sled handling and dog care are critical for a safe and enjoyable experience; listen closely to directions.
Insulated waterproof boots
Keeps feet warm and dry while standing on the sled and walking through snow.
winter
Thermal base layers
Provides critical warmth for the long winter day outdoors.
winter
Windproof jacket
Protects against strong wind chill during sled runs.
winter
Gloves or mittens
Essential for keeping hands warm while handling sled gear and dogs.
winter