Alaskan Dog Sledding & Hot Springs Tours with Howling Bay Kennel - Fairbanks

Alaskan Dog Sledding & Hot Springs Tours with Howling Bay Kennel

Fairbanksmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3–6 hours depending on tour or hike

Fitness Level

A basic to moderate fitness level is recommended to comfortably participate in sleddog rides and hiking over uneven terrain.

Overview

Howling Bay Kennel in Fairbanks offers a unique blend of summer sleddog tours, rugged hikes, and Northern Lights photography that connect you directly with Alaska’s wilderness and culture.

Details

Fairbanks, Alaska, holds a rugged appeal far beyond its role as a gateway to the Arctic. Here, Howling Bay Kennel delivers an extraordinary mix of musher-led dog sled tours, scenic hikes, and Northern Lights experiences that anchor you deep into the Alaskan wilderness ethos. Their Summer Alaskan Sleddog Tour is a standout, inviting visitors to engage with a team of powerful Alaskan huskies trained for cold-weather endurance. Even without snow underfoot, the dogs' energy and technique shine as visitors ride their wheeled sleds—an authentic introduction to sleddog culture rarely accessible outside winter.

Beyond the kennel, Howling Bay's guided Angel Rocks hike challenges adventurers with rugged terrains and significant elevation changes, rewarding with sweeping views of the Chena River Valley and unique granite formations shaped by ancient glacial forces. Post-hike, the nearby Chena Hot Springs provide restorative warmth, making it a seamless blend of active and relaxing outdoor pursuits.

Adding to their portfolio, the Hot Springs and Northern Lights Photography Tour is an immersive opportunity to capture Alaska's ethereal aurora borealis while soaking in mineral-rich waters. Fairbanks remains one of the best aurora viewing cities worldwide, and Howling Bay’s expert guides tailor these tours around optimal weather forecasts, making it a prime stop for photographers and naturalists alike.

Howling Bay Kennel’s deep ties to local history and environment amplify its appeal. Dog sledding, once an essential mode of transportation for Alaska’s native and frontier communities, is preserved here with respect and authenticity. Sustainability is a priority, with careful management of trails and habitats to minimize human impact.

For those heading to Fairbanks seeking more than standard tourism, Howling Bay Kennel offers a hands-on, active experience that connects you both to Alaskan tradition and the stark beauty of its northern wildlands.

Adventure Tips

Prepare for variable terrain

Angel Rocks trail includes steep granite slopes and uneven footing; bring sturdy hiking boots with good traction.

Dress in layers for fluctuating temperatures

Fairbanks weather can shift quickly, even in summer; lightweight but warm layers help regulate comfort during tours and hikes.

Respect the sled dogs’ space

Approach the huskies calmly and follow guide instructions to keep interactions safe and enjoyable for both visitors and animals.

Charge your camera batteries

Northern Lights photography can drain equipment quickly; bring extra batteries and memory cards to capture key moments.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Fairbanks Ice Museum
  • Murie's Cabin Historic Site

Wildlife

  • Moose
  • Arctic fox

History

Dog sledding in Alaska has roots in indigenous traditions and gold rush-era transportation, preserved today through tour operations like Howling Bay Kennel.

Conservation

Howling Bay Kennel practices sustainable trail use to protect local flora and fauna while educating visitors on responsible wilderness etiquette.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Nighttime for Northern Lights
Early morning

Best Viewpoints

  • Angel Rocks summit
  • Chena Hot Springs area
  • Open tundra near Fairbanks

What to Photograph

Alaskan huskies in action
Aurora borealis
Granite rock formations

Recommended Gear

Waterproof hiking boots

Essential

Provides solid traction and protects feet on diverse trail surfaces including rocky and muddy areas.

spring|summer|fall specific

Layered clothing system

Essential

Vital for adjusting to the region’s rapid temperature swings and variable weather conditions.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Insulated jacket

Essential

Keeps you warm during cooler evenings and Northern Lights photography sessions.

fall|winter specific

Camera with extra batteries

Essential for capturing the Northern Lights and dramatic Alaskan landscapes.

fall|winter|summer specific