If you’ve booked your first sled dog ride with Outlaw Ridge, congratulations! You’re about to embark on one of the most exhilarating adventures of your life. Sled dog mushing is an incredible way to experience the wild beauty of nature while bonding with our team of expert mushers and powerful, passionate sled dogs. To help you get ready for your ride, we’ve put together some essential tips from our Outlaw Ridge experts to ensure you have the best experience possible.
1. Dress in Layers for Warmth and Comfort
Sled dog rides are often taken in chilly winter conditions, so dressing appropriately is key to staying comfortable during your adventure. Here’s how to layer up:
-
Base Layer: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat off your skin. Thermal tops and bottoms are ideal for keeping you warm while preventing overheating.
-
Middle Layer: A fleece or insulated jacket will provide an additional layer of warmth.
-
Outer Layer: Wear a waterproof, windproof jacket and pants to protect yourself from the elements and snow.
-
Accessories: Don’t forget warm gloves, a hat, scarf, and insulated boots. Layered socks are also important, and waterproof boots are a must to keep your feet dry.
The goal is to stay warm without being too bulky, so you can comfortably sit on the sled and enjoy the ride!
2. Know What to Expect from the Ride
Before you head out on the trail, it’s important to understand what to expect. Here’s a quick rundown of the sled dog ride experience:
-
Initial Briefing: Once you arrive at Outlaw Ridge, our mushers will provide a thorough safety briefing. You’ll learn how to use the sled, how to communicate with the dogs, and what to expect during the ride.
-
The Ride Itself: The ride will take you across snowy trails, with the wind in your face and the sled dogs leading the way. Depending on the tour you choose, your ride could last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours. Our mushers will guide the team, but you’ll be able to sit back and enjoy the rush.
-
Interaction with Dogs: While our dogs are friendly and enthusiastic, remember that they’re working animals. Always follow the guidelines provided during the briefing when interacting with them, especially before the ride.
3. Be Ready for the Physical Activity
Though sledding is an adventure, it does require some physical engagement. Here’s what you need to know:
-
Sitting Posture: You’ll be sitting on the sled for the majority of the ride, so make sure to keep your posture upright and relaxed.
-
Staying Engaged: There will be times when you need to assist with controlling the sled, such as balancing your weight and following the musher’s instructions during sharp turns or hills. The better your posture and engagement, the more enjoyable your experience will be.
-
Mushing Involvement: If you’re on a more hands-on tour, you may get the chance to help mush, especially on beginner rides. Don’t worry if you’ve never done it before—our mushers will guide you every step of the way.
4. Take Care of Your Personal Belongings
Before your ride, it’s essential to think about your personal belongings. Here are a few tips to keep everything safe and secure:
-
Keep It Light: Limit the items you bring with you. We recommend only taking essentials like a camera, phone (in a secure case), and gloves.
-
Leave Valuables Behind: Since you’ll be moving at high speeds through snowy terrain, it’s best to leave valuables like jewelry and electronics behind unless you have a secure, waterproof case for them.
Remember, the more streamlined you are, the more enjoyable and stress-free your ride will be!
5. Get Ready to Bond with Our Dogs
At Outlaw Ridge, our dogs are much more than just athletes—they’re family. Many guests are amazed by the connection they feel with our sled dogs during their visit. Here’s how you can prepare to bond with these incredible animals:
-
Respect the Dogs: While our dogs are highly trained and friendly, always remember they are working animals. Follow the musher’s instructions for interacting with them.
-
Dog Meet and Greet: Depending on the tour, you may have the chance to meet the dogs up close before the ride. Our sled dogs love attention and affection from guests, and they’re happy to share their personalities with you.
-
Enjoy Their Enthusiasm: You’ll be blown away by the energy and excitement of our sled dogs, especially as they prepare to hit the trails. They’re eager to run, and their enthusiasm will make the ride even more exciting.
6. Be Prepared for a Thrilling Adventure!
A sled dog ride is a fast-paced, exhilarating experience, and it’s normal to feel a little nervous before your first ride. However, our expert mushers will ensure that you feel comfortable every step of the way. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
-
Embrace the Thrill: Sled dog mushing is exciting, and it’s all about having fun and embracing the adventure. Let the thrill of the ride take over and enjoy the journey.
-
Relax and Trust the Team: You’ll be in great hands with our experienced mushers. Let them lead you on an unforgettable adventure, and trust that our sled dogs are well-trained and ready to take you on the ride of a lifetime.
7. Capture the Memories
A sled dog ride with Outlaw Ridge is an unforgettable experience, so don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the memories! Whether it’s a selfie with the sled dogs before your ride or a scenic shot of the trail, you’ll want to remember every moment. Be sure to follow safety guidelines while snapping pictures—especially when the ride is in full motion.
8. Post-Ride Tips
After your ride, take some time to reflect on your adventure. You’ll be able to meet the sled dogs, learn more about their training, and chat with your musher about the experience. Many guests love to relax with a warm drink and share stories about their ride. It’s a great way to finish off the day!