Dog Mushing in Denali

Alaska's state sport is mushing, and Denali is one of many places where you can find mushing opportunities.

If you already live in Alaska and own dogs, you're welcome to recreationally mush in Denali. No permit is required for day trips, but we ask that you file a trip plan and get a free backcountry camping permit from us if you plan to travel one or more nights in the park with your dogs. Commercial mushing (e.g., taking clients out) is regulated and requires a special permit; individuals wishing to mush commercially in Denali should contact us to learn more.

Visitors who wish to explore Denali by dog team, but lack their own dogs, should consider booking a trip with a guide. Explore a list of authorized guiding services in Denali.
 

Please note: Although the NPS manages a kennel of sled dogs, they are not available for visitor rides. 

Details

Duration

4-72 Hours

Look for an authorized vendor to determine trip durations. Many dog sled operators throughout Alaska offer short (e.g., 4+ hour) trips, as well as overnight adventures.

If you're mushing with your own dogs, the duration is entirely up to you! 

Activity

Dog Sledding

Mushing in Denali is permissible by private, non-commercial individuals with their own sled dogs. Visitors coming to Denali without dogs can look for an authorized guide, if you wish to mush in the park.

Pets Allowed

No

Activity Fee

No

If you're mushing with your own dogs, there is no special fee beyond the normal park entrance fee. If you mush with a commercial guide, contact your vendor to determine prices. 

Reservations

Yes

Mushers with their own dogs do not need to make advance reservations, though mushers who wish to camp in the park do need to acquire a free backcountry camping permit. 

Visitors who are using an authorized guide should consider booking well in advance of your trip. 

Season

Winter, Spring

Accessibility Information

Please be aware that riding in or driving a sled pulled by dogs is inherently a physically challenging experience.

This can be made worse when snow conditions are poor (snow helps insulate the passenger and driver from the numerous bounces and bumps that can occur on trail). 

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  Winter Activities in Denali

  Whether you plan to mush, ski, or snowshoe, winter is a great time to explore Denali.

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  Meet the Sled Dogs!

  Whether or not you're able to visit in person, you can learn more about each of Denali's sled dogs online.

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  Where Are the Dogs in Winter?

  In winter, the sled dogs set off on trips throughout the park, and you can follow their blog and a map showing their real-time location.