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A group of huskies prance and smile and they pull a dogsled through the snow near Vail, Colorado.

At-A-Glance

Winter
Season:

Winter

Months:

Nov - May

Vail Dog Sledding

Embrace the enchantment of dog sledding in Vail, as adorable huskies lead you through a sparkling snow globe of Colorado trails. Ideal for families and winter-nature lovers, this adventure lets you glide through frosty aspen glades and white-blanketed meadows behind a team of furry four-legged friends. Get ready to bundle up and embark on an unforgettable journey with these Vail dog-sledding experiences.

ALPINE ADVENTURES

Alpine Adventures offers an unforgettable dog-sledding tour against the backdrop of bright-green pine trees and snowcapped peaks. Operating as both a tour service and a rescue facilty for retired sled dogs, Alpine Adventures takes pride in ensuring a cozy home for their seasoned athletes. As the sleds slide through the trails drawn by a spirited squad of pups, you can enjoy the frosty landscapes and listen to the peaceful sound of paws pattering on the snow.

The unique part about these tours? Your active participation: Envision yourself on a sled pulled by 10–12 eager canines. While a guide leads the way on the front sled, you get to be in control of the second sled, driving and riding in tandem with the team.

ALPINE ADVENTURES TOURS

MOUNTAIN MUSHERS

Mountain Mushers is a family-operated dog-sledding experience right here in Vail. Known for their resistance-free approach to training dogs, tours offer an immersive connection with their extraordinary canines. During your session, you will navigate a private trail surrounded by snow-quilted trees. As you coast along, you may even encounter Colorado wildlife like foxes, deer and elk.

Each sled accommodates two guests. While you’re out in the wilderness, you can stop for a steaming cup of hot cocoa and a slice homemade pumpkin bread. Snuggle up in a warm wool blanket (provided by their team), and their expert mushers will lead you along for a truly magical experience in Vail’s serene forests.

MOUNTAIN MUSHERS TOURS

What to Bring Dog Sledding in Vail

Remember to dress the part for dog sledding in Vail. Grab your snow pants, a cozy jacket, comfy underlayers, a winter hat, warm boots, gloves, a neck gaiter or scarf, and sunglasses. Even in the chilly weather, at our high elevation it’s best to apply some sunscreen to any exposed skin, especially when the sun is strong.

More Winter Itinerary Inspiration

Discover More Epic Experiences

Pitkin Creek trail with mountains in background

Pitkin Creek Trail

The first mile of the trail is strenuous as it climbs steeply out of the Vail Valley. Fallen trees along the trail are evidence of past avalanches. The grade levels out somewhat as the trail passes through mature aspen groves and spruce-fir forests and a series of moraines from an ancient glacial retreat. After about … Continued
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deluge alpine mountain views

Deluge Trail

The Deluge Lake Trail splits from the Gore Creek Trail about 0.1 mile from the Gore Creek trailhead. Take this left onto the narrow trail which heads north before curving and heading northeast the rest of the way. The trail will pass through several boulder fields, and then cling to a very steep slope as … Continued
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Cascading rocks along Bighorn Creek trail

Bighorn Creek Trail

The first 1/2 mile of the trail climbs steeply out of the Vail Valley, then more gradually climbs up through stands of aspen and pine. The trail passes beaver ponds and the remains of old mining camps as well as Bighorn Falls. Near mile 2, the views of Vail and Bighorn drainage are exceptional. Around … Continued
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Gore Valley Trail paved path

Gore Valley Trail West (Lionshead Village to Dowd Junction)

The Gore Valley Trail runs the length of the Gore Creek/Vail Valley. The trail includes a mix of paved trail alongside the frontage road, trail separated from roads and running alongside Gore Creek and road shoulders designated as trail connector sections. The trail is accessible throughout Lionshead and Vail Village along Gore Creek. Begin in … Continued
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Gore Valley Trail paved path

Gore Valley Trail (Vail Village towards East Vail)

The Gore Valley Trail runs the length of the Gore Creek/Vail Valley. The trail includes a mix of paved trail alongside the frontage road, trail separated from roads and running alongside Gore Creek and road shoulders designated as trail connector sections. The trail is accessible throughout Vail Village and Lionshead Village along Gore Creek. Headed … Continued
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Image of Booth Lake Falls with pine trees

Booth Lake Trail

There is no parking at the Booth Lake Trailhead or anywhere in the surrounding neighborhood. Violators will be towed. Private vehicle drop-off and pick-up at the trailhead are allowed on a limited basis. Learn More Trail Highlights: The trail climbs steeply from the trailhead through aspen groves for the first mile. Then, the trail climbs more … Continued
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Dirt trail among aspen trees and grasses with mountain views

Buffehr Creek Trail

CLOSED April 15 to June 20 From the Buffehr Creek trailhead, cross the bridge and proceed about 1/4 mile before turning right at the first junction (the trail to the left takes you to Garmisch Drive). Continue north approximately another 1/2 mile, ascending a series of switchbacks, to the North Trail junction and stay right. … Continued
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Grouse Lake trail sign image

Grouse Lake

Grouse Lake trail begins on a logging road but turns to singletrack after 0.3 mile. At the signed junction with West Grouse Creek trail at 1 mile, keep left. The trail continues climbing through mixed forests and provides access to the Holy Cross Wilderness at Grouse Lake. If camping overnight, please visit the Ranger Station … Continued
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Trail sign along Upper Piney River Trail with mountain views

Upper Piney River Trail

From the trailhead, it is a gradual climb for about 3 miles to a cascading waterfall which makes a good destination for the average hiker. Views of the Gore Range abound. Where the trail switchbacks, please stay on the trail and do not cut the switchbacks. To avoid trampling sensitive vegetation and to prevent soil … Continued
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