Discover the exhilarating world of dog mushing during a half-day school near Denali. Learn to handle a team of huskies, soak in stunning mountain views, and embrace Alaska’s winter spirit.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate physical fitness is recommended; no prior sledding experience needed.
Wildlife
History
Squid Acres Kennel has a long-standing tradition of guiding visitors into Alaska's sled dog culture, blending outdoor adventure with local heritage.
Conservation
The kennel actively maintains sustainable practices, ensuring the welfare of the huskies and minimizing environmental impact.
Squid Acres Kennel Dogsled Tours
Discover the exhilarating world of dog mushing during a half-day school near Denali. Learn to handle a team of huskies, soak in stunning mountain views, and embrace Alaska’s winter spirit.
Squid Acres Kennel Dogsled Tours operates a kennel and guided dogsled trips based in Healy, Alaska, providing seasonal mushing experiences near Denali National Park. The operation offers winter and summer programs that connect visitors with experienced sled dogs and professional mushers. Guests can choose from evening aurora rides, two-hour sled tours, half-day mushing schools, and summer hands-on experiences that include kennel tours and ATV-assisted rides.
The team includes Iditarod and Yukon Quest mushers Paige Drobny and Cody Strathe for seasonal summer programs, delivering personal instruction and firsthand stories from high-latitude races. Winter offerings emphasize traditional dogsled travel and include guided rides to a secluded camp for aurora viewing, longer two-hour runs near Denali, and immersive half-day mushing schools that teach guests to lead a dog team.
Safety and animal care are priorities; the kennel maintains working sled dogs trained for passenger rides and educational demonstrations. Guides provide trail briefings, appropriate winter clothing guidance, and mushing instruction tailored to experience level. Tours use local trails in the Healy and Cantwell areas, with winter trips operating on snow and summer programs using ATV-assisted setups.
Reservations are recommended due to seasonal availability and limited group sizes. Squid Acres Kennel Dogsled Tours appeals to visitors seeking authentic, educational, and active outdoor experiences in Alaska. The business focuses on animal-athlete welfare, experienced leadership, and proximity to Denali as core elements of its guest offerings. Booking information, pricing, and seasonal operating dates are available through direct reservation channels and partner tourism offices for all skill levels.
Location
Healy, Alaska
Base camp near Denali National Park
Tours Offered
5 seasonal tours
Winter and summer mushing options
Featured Mushers
Paige Drobny & Cody Strathe
Iditarod & Yukon Quest mushers
Seasonality
Winter & Summer
Snow rides and ATV-assisted summer tours
Reserve a winter aurora ride, half-day mushing school, or summer kennel tour for authentic Alaskan adventure.
Dress warmly and in layered clothing
Winter conditions can change quickly, so prepare for cold temperatures and wind chill with proper layers.
Wear waterproof boots and gloves
Keeping dry and warm is key to enjoying the experience fully, especially during snowy, wet conditions.
Arrive early to get fitted and briefed
Covering safety and technique points before heading out ensures a smooth and enjoyable mushing session.
Follow the instructor’s guidance closely
Expert instruction guarantees a safe, engaging experience, making the most of this hands-on activity.
Insulated waterproof jacket
Keeps you warm and dry during outdoor mushing activities.
winter
Thermal base layers
Provides essential insulation against freezing temperatures.
winter
Warm hat and face mask
Protects your head and face from cold wind and frostbite.
winter
Waterproof gloves
Keeps your hands dry and warm while handling the sled and dogs.
winter