If you've ever watched a dog sled team disappear into a snowy treeline and thought, "I want to do that" — good news. Dog sledding near Bozeman is absolutely a thing, and it's more accessible than you might think. No experience required, no sled-driving license necessary.
It's also one of those rare winter activities that works for pretty much everyone (and a top pick if you don't ski), including solo travelers, couples, and families. In fact, it's a great winter activity to do with kids. Just show up, meet some seriously enthusiastic huskies, and hold on.
Here's a breakdown of who's running trips, what to expect, and how to pick the right adventure for your crew.
Dog Sledding Tours Near Bozeman
Yellowstone Dog Sled Adventures
- Location: Rainbow Ranch Lodge, 42950 Gallatin Road, Big Sky, MT
- Distance from Bozeman: 46.5 miles (about 1 hour)
Yellowstone Dog Sled Adventures operates on a 120-acre private reserve with a groomed five-mile track. They offer two experiences: the Sled Dog Sampler (just over 1 hour), a family-friendly intro with a 40-minute ride, campfire, snacks, and plenty of husky time; and the Learn to Mush (2.5 hours), a hands-on trip where you actually drive the team.
While the drive to Big Sky is beautiful — think canyon walls, the Gallatin River, possible Bald Eagle sightings, and mountain views — it can be a little dicey in the winter. Read our guide about getting to Big Sky to learn more about alternative transportation options and tips for winter driving.
Spirit of the North Sled Dog Adventures
- Location: Moonlight Basin Resort, Big Sky, MT (and West Yellowstone, MT)
- Distance from Bozeman: 57 miles to Big Sky (about 1 hour and 20 minutes), 89.5 miles to West Yellowstone (about 1 hour and 45 minutes)
Spirit of the North runs two-hour trips from Moonlight Basin Resort, about a mile from Big Sky Mountain Village, with views of Lone Mountain and the Spanish Peaks along the way. If you're already planning a Big Sky ski trip, this makes for an easy non-ski day add-on.
The company also offers trips in West Yellowstone from December 18-31, led by Jessie Royer, the 2019 and 2020 third place finisher of the Iditarod Sled Dog Race in Alaska.
Morrison Racing Kennel
- Location: Mill Creek trail system, Paradise Valley, MT
- Distance from Bozeman: 48 miles (about 50 minutes)
Morrison Racing Kennel's most popular trip is the 10 Mile Tour (about 3 hours, with about 1.5 miles spent on the trail), which takes you out and back on trail with a team of 8–10 Alaskan Huskies, guided by an experienced musher. Their "Double Driver" sleds let guests take a turn standing and driving, and the extra time built into the trip means you can harness the dogs, hand out post-run cookies, or just hang.
When to Go
Dog sledding is a winter-only activity, and most companies around Bozeman and Big Sky typically run tours from December through March.
January and February tend to offer the most reliable snow conditions and the coldest days on the trail. March can still be great, especially at higher elevations near Big Sky, though warmer temperatures late in the month may affect trail conditions. If you're not sure, it's always worth calling ahead.
First time in Bozeman in winter? Read our guide to visiting Bozeman in winter before you go.
Before You Go
A few practical notes for anyone planning a dog sledding Bozeman trip:
- Book ahead. These are small operations with limited capacity. Don't assume walk-ins are welcome.
- Dress in layers. You'll be outside for 1-2+ hours. Windproof outer layers and warm boots are non-negotiable. Hand and toe warmers are helpful too.
- Wear sunscreen and bring sunglasses. The sun’s reflection on the snow can be intense.
- Conditions vary. Weather and snowpack affect what's possible. Trust the guides — they know the terrain.
- Heading to Yellowstone? Dog sledding near Bozeman makes an easy add-on, whether you're going to the North Entrance through Paradise Valley or the West Entrance through Big Sky and West Yellowstone — check out our guide to exploring Yellowstone in winter for trip inspiration.
Dog sledding Bozeman-style might not be something you planned for. But once you're behind a team of huskies flying through a snow-covered Montana valley, you'll wonder why it took you this long.
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