Dog Sledding in Ottawa: Your Ultimate Guide to a True Winter Adventure

Why Try Dog Sledding in Ottawa?

Dog sledding isn’t just a sport—it’s a time-honored tradition that dates back thousands of years. The feeling of gliding through snowy trails, guided by a team of powerful and well-trained huskies, offers a rare blend of adventure, teamwork, and connection with nature.

Ottawa’s long winters and snowy forests create ideal conditions for dog sledding. From the dense trails of Gatineau Park to the open plains of the Ottawa Valley, the region is home to some of the best dog sledding experiences in Eastern Canada. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing, a romantic escape, or a hands-on mushing adventure, Ottawa has it all.

If you’ve ever dreamed of feeling the rush of a dog team charging through fresh snow, now’s the time to experience the magic of dog sledding in Ottawa!

Benefits of Dog Sledding

✅ Full-Body Workout – Balancing on the sled engages core, leg, and arm muscles.
✅ Cardio and Strength – Helping steer and command the sled builds endurance and power.
✅ Enhances Coordination – Managing turns and trail changes sharpens motor skills.
✅ Connects You with Nature – Experience Ottawa’s winter landscape in its purest form.
✅ Bond with the Dogs – The teamwork between you and the huskies creates a special connection.
✅ Mental Reset – The quiet of the trail and the sound of paws on snow are deeply meditative.
✅ Fun for All Ages – Family-friendly and beginner-friendly options available.

“To appreciate the beauty of a snowflake, it is necessary to stand out in the cold—with a team of huskies!”

What to Expect During a Dog Sledding Experience

Dog sledding isn’t just about sitting back and enjoying the ride—you’ll be actively involved in guiding and working with the dogs. A typical dog sledding experience includes:

🌲 Meeting the Dogs – Meet your husky team, learn their names and personalities.
🌲 Gear Up – Get fitted with a warm snowsuit, gloves, and boots.
🌲 Introduction to Mushing – Learn basic commands like “Hike!” (go), “Gee!” (turn right), and “Haw!” (turn left).
🌲 Start the Ride – Step onto the sled and take off into the snowy trails.
🌲 Handling the Sled – Steer through turns and maintain balance on hills.
🌲 Mid-Trail Break – Stop to give the dogs a rest, take pictures, and enjoy the scenery.
🌲 Team Bonding – Feed the dogs treats and reward them for their hard work.

Top Dog Sledding Tours Near Ottawa

Ottawa is home to several professional dog sledding operators that offer a range of experiences—from short introductory rides to full-day expeditions. Here are the best dog sledding tours in the Ottawa region:

🐾 Escapade Eskimo (Best Overall Dog Sledding Experience)

📍 Location: Otter Lake, Quebec (1 hour from Ottawa)

  • Trail Length: 5 km to 20 km
  • Experience Level: Beginner to expert
  • Session Length: 1 to 3 hours
  • Special Features:
    • Professional mushers guide the tour.
    • Hands-on experience steering the sled.
    • Meet and play with the dogs after the ride.
    • Family-friendly with kid-sized sleds available.
    • Warm-up with hot chocolate and snacks post-ride.

🏆 Pro Tip: Choose the sunset tour for breathtaking views of the forest under golden light.

🐾 Timberland Tours (Best for Learning to Mush)

📍 Location: Bristol, Quebec (1 hour from Ottawa)

  • Trail Length: 10 km to 30 km
  • Experience Level: Beginner to advanced
  • Session Length: 2 to 5 hours
  • Special Features:
    • “Mushing School” for first-time dog sledders.
    • One-on-one instruction on how to steer and control the sled.
    • Option to ride as a passenger or steer the sled yourself.
    • End the session with time to pet and play with the huskies.
    • Eco-friendly and sustainable dog care practices.

🏆 Pro Tip: If you want to learn how to become a musher, this is the place!

🐾 Mad Dogs & Englishmen (Best for Long-Distance Expeditions)

📍 Location: Montebello, Quebec (1 hour from Ottawa)

  • Trail Length: 15 km to 40 km
  • Experience Level: Intermediate to advanced
  • Session Length: Half-day and full-day expeditions
  • Special Features:
    • Longer trails through the woods and along frozen lakes.
    • High-speed sections for adrenaline seekers.
    • Dogs are bred and trained for long-distance running.
    • Option to combine dog sledding with snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
    • End the day with a meal at a local lodge.

🏆 Pro Tip: For a true Arctic-style adventure, book the full-day expedition!

🐾 Adventure Dogsledding (Best for Families and Kids)

📍 Location: Wakefield, Quebec (30 minutes from Ottawa)

  • Trail Length: 2 km to 10 km
  • Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate
  • Session Length: 1 to 2 hours
  • Special Features:
    • Kid-friendly trails with slower, gentler dogs.
    • Shorter trails ideal for younger kids.
    • Friendly and social huskies.
    • Option to ride as a family on a single sled.
    • Group tours available.

🏆 Pro Tip: Kids love helping harness the dogs before the ride!

🐾 Expéditions Wakefield (Best for Scenic Views)

📍 Location: Wakefield, Quebec (30 minutes from Ottawa)

  • Trail Length: 5 km to 15 km
  • Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate
  • Session Length: 1 to 3 hours
  • Special Features:
    • Trails wind through scenic forests and frozen rivers.
    • Focus on connecting with the dogs.
    • Good mix of straightaways and technical turns.
    • Great for couples and small groups.

🏆 Pro Tip: Try the early morning run for crisp snow and fewer crowds.

Essential Dog Sledding Gear

✔ Insulated Jacket and Pants – Waterproof and windproof.
✔ Thermal Base Layers – Moisture-wicking material to keep dry.
✔ Gloves and Mittens – Insulated with grip material.
✔ Hat and Balaclava – Protects face from wind chill.
✔ Winter Boots – Thick soles and waterproof material.
✔ Sunglasses or Goggles – Protects eyes from snow glare.
✔ Wool Socks – Keeps feet warm and dry.
✔ Hand and Foot Warmers (Optional) – For extra warmth.

🏆 Pro Tip: Dress in layers—steering a sled is a workout, and you may get hot!

Dog Sledding Safety Tips

🐾 Listen to the Musher – Commands like “Whoa!” (stop) and “Easy!” (slow down) are important.
🐾 Lean Into Turns – Helps prevent tipping the sled.
🐾 Keep Your Feet Light on the Runners – Too much pressure can slow the sled down.
🐾 Stay Calm If You Fall – The dogs will stop when commanded.
🐾 Respect the Dogs – Don’t pull their harnesses or distract them while running.
🐾 Follow the Trail – Off-trail sledding can damage the environment.

Final Thoughts: Lead the Pack!

Dog sledding in Ottawa delivers the perfect mix of thrill, tradition, and natural beauty. Whether you’re steering your own team through the woods or relaxing under a warm blanket as the dogs do the work, the connection between human and husky creates an unforgettable winter experience.

💬 What’s your most memorable dog sledding adventure? Share your story! #OttawaActiveDogSledding #LeadThePack