Big Sky, Montana
Big Sky, Montana is a stunning alpine destination known for its breathtaking mountain views, outdoor adventure, and laid-back charm. In summer, visitors enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, and whitewater rafting. Home to one of the largest ski resorts in the U.S., Big Sky offers world-class skiing and snowboarding in winter. But a winter activity that is not to be missed is dog sledding!
getting there
If you are flying to the area, the closest major airport is Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) which is about 1 hour drive away. Another major airport is the Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) which is 3 hours and 40 minutes south of Big Sky.
On our trip we flew into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) and looped around Yellowstone and Jackson Hole and headed through Big Sky on the way back to Bozeman.
getting Around
The best way to get around is by having your own car. We rented a car for our trip. If you don’t want to rent a car, there are several options of shuttle services from the airport to Big Sky. The Skyline Bus offers transportation between Big Sky and Bozeman and around Big Sky. For dog sledding we were given driving directions to get there. If you don’t have a car I suppose you could hire a taxi.
Big Sky's Must do dog sledding
Dog sledding is truly a unique and thrilling experience. It originated as a means of transportation and now it is a popular outdoor activity. Teams of huskies pull sleds across snow-covered trails. You can just ride along or ask to steer and it is a very different experience. It is an unforgettable winter adventure that should be on your bucket list!
About the experience
We booked with Spirit of the North Dog Sled Adventures and it was an incredible experience. It runs from December 1 through March 31 and has trips at 9:30 AM and 1 PM 7 days a week with a reservation. The trips last about 2 hours.
Top Tips for Dog Sledding
Dress Warm
You are not as active as skiing and other outdoor activities so make sure to dress warm. Hats, gloves, warm boots are a must. Consider hand and feet warmers too!
Arrive Early
The tour company advised us to get there early and we were so happy we did that. We got to hang out and pet the dogs and learn more before the tour began
Bring your camera
Don’t forget your camera. You are going to want to capture this! Even better don’t forget to take a video. To date, the video of me steering makes me laugh every time! They go much faster than you’d think!
Dog Sledding Itinerary
Arrival
The tour company gave us a map of how to get there. It is 20 minutes out of town. Make sure to plan to arrive early. If you arrive early you get more time with the dogs!
Ride up
The first part of the trip is riding up the hill. This part is the slower part of course because it is uphill. We are pretty light so they kept giving some of our dogs over to other people who needed more help hehe.
Half way stop
At the half way part, we all got a rest. We got to hang out with the dogs and got a little snack and hot chocolate.
Fast ride down
Wow wee! Going downhill is the dogs favorite part. They get so excited! And wow do they go fast. From riding up in the sleigh on the way up to going to steering was like night and day. I couldn’t believe how fast they go. Once I got used to it, it was so much fun! Let’s just say I was fully on the break and it barely slowed them down!
Big Sky Dog Sledding is an unforgettable experience
I hope this inspires you to check out this must do experience! It is one for the books! It is so beautiful and so fun. I have a feeling we will do this again in the future!
