Dogsledding – why you need to book early!

Iconic to the great white north and our most popular activity is dogsledding.

These docile and well-trained animals take you on a journey like no other through our spectacular Rocky Mountains. With four Banff dogsledding tour options to choose from in two locations, we have options to suit all needs and family size. Like sleigh rides, this is another great family winter activity that allows parents to take their children (infants 0-5 y/o often riding at a lower cost) on this unique experience.

History of dogsledding

Dogsledding has an important role in Canada’s history. Originally developed by northern Indigenous people as a method of winter travel, dogsledding was adopted by early European explores and travelers to transport goods across the snow. Sled dogs were vital in delivering food, furs and other required supplies to and from remote areas long before snowmobiles, planes and cars existed.

It’s the most popular Banff winter activity

Today, dogsledding has become the most popular winter recreational activity in the Canadian Rockies, and there’s nothing quite like being pulled on a sled by a team of huskies through the most awe-inspiring snowy landscape you’ve ever seen. The best winter activity in Banff is also our most popular so it is important to remember that booking early is crucial to avoid disappointment. So, what exactly makes this activity the most popular attraction? Well, to start, dog lovers everywhere go crazy for this tour as they get to spend quality time with their mushers and four-legged guides before, during, and after the activity.

These dogs are bred specifically for running and their most favourite thing to do is just that – run. Upon arrival at the tour location, the dogs will be going nuts. Jumping, barking, and whimpering with excitement as they get ready to do their favourite thing. Other dogs on the sidelines bark back in jealousy, but they’ll get their turn. All dogs are rotated so that they get their rest, food, and water in between tours.

The dogs’ excited barks and whimpers immediately stop once they start doing what they love. There are no motors, no unwanted sounds, and no distractions – just the crisp air hitting your face as your sleigh glides along in silence. The experience is up to you.

If you want to take it in with your family or partner without any talking, that is okay. Or, your musher can give you as much or as little information as you like – they’ll tell you about the history of this activity, the area, and the personalities of the dogs. Each musher also has a unique story themselves and how they grew to have such a unique occupation. These are authentic locals to the area both the dogs and mushers!

Dog sledding in Banff is an activity that has to be done in order to understand the impact it can make on you. Everything about this activity is organic and immersive, and you’ll soon realize why it’s the most popular activity in Banff and why you need to book early to secure your spot.

With limited availability, this popular activity sells out weeks in advance especially during peak periods such as the Christmas and New Year holidays and Valentines Day. We strongly recommend booking your dogsledding tour as early as possible to avoid disappointment!

Dogsledding Tours in Lake Louise

Want to mush at beautiful Lake Louise? Lake Louise is the only dogsledding location in Banff National Park, located along the Great Divide Trail just 1km from the Lake Louise shoreline. Get a taste for dogsledding on a 30 minute dogsled on an guide driven sled through an area that looks like ‘Narnia’ or take a longer 1.5 hour dogsled to a pass at the Continental Divide where your guide will encourage you to try ‘driving’ the team home under their supervision. With an average of only six teams per tour time, Lake Louise is the best dogsledding location for a more relaxed, romantic dogsled ride as these lean race style dogs take you through stunning winter landscapes with views of the tallest peaks and icy glaciers.

Lake Louise Dogsledding Tours

Most Popular

From $288

Dogsledding - Great Divide 1.5 Hrs

The most popular Lake Louise dogsledding - The Great Divide tour, takes you along the base of giant peaks in

9:30am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm

1.5 Hours

“A romantic and unique experience! A must do in Lake Louise. Reserve your spots fast, we sell out quick.”

 Lindsey, Discover Banff Tours Group Sales Manager