There’s something about a team of eager huskies, fresh mountain snow, and the prospect of steering your own sled that makes a winter day in Colorado feel a little more adventurous. Dog sledding in Durango gives you the chance to experience all three with Durango Dog Ranch, a family-owned operation offering guided tours through the beautiful San Juan Mountains. You don’t need previous experience, and you won’t spend the entire time sitting in the sled. You’ll learn how to mush, help harness the dogs, and take a turn driving the team.
Durango Dog Ranch is owned by Gregg and Gretchen Dubit, who have spent decades introducing visitors to the sport of dog sledding. Their kennel is based in Hesperus, about 20 minutes west of downtown Durango, although winter tours can take place at several mountain locations depending on snow conditions. Each sled has an experienced guide, making this one of the more approachable winter adventures in Southwest Colorado. It’s also a refreshing alternative to spending every day on the ski slopes.
A winter getaway deserves somewhere comfortable to return to after a day outdoors. At Antlers on the Creek, our historic Durango Bed and Breakfast, you’ll find five inviting guest suites, a hot tub, and a delicious homemade breakfast each morning. We’re located along Lightner Creek, just west of downtown, with easy access to the many winter activities around Durango. Book your stay, bundle up, and get ready to meet some very enthusiastic four-legged athletes.
What to Expect on a Durango Dog Sledding Tour
The excitement starts before the sled ever moves. Sled dogs are energetic, vocal, and clearly enthusiastic about their work. As the team gets ready, you’ll hear plenty of barking and howling from dogs that know they’re about to head out for a run.
Your experience begins with an introduction to mushing. The guides at Durango Dog Ranch explain how the sled operates, demonstrate the equipment, and show you how to work with the dogs. You’ll also have an opportunity to help harness the team before heading out onto the snow.
Once you’re moving, the experience changes completely. The dogs settle into their work, the sled glides across the snow, and the surrounding mountains become the main attraction. Depending on the day’s trail location, you might ride through open mountain terrain or along forested trails with views of the San Juan Mountains.
The best part is that you get to participate. Every sled has a trained guide, but guests also have the opportunity to stand on the runners and drive. It’s a hands-on introduction to a sport that requires communication, teamwork, and an impressive amount of energy from the dogs.
Plan on approximately two hours for the entire experience, including your mushing lesson, time with the dogs, the sled ride, and a complimentary hot drink afterward. The actual riding portion is shorter than two hours.
Where Do Durango Dog Sledding Tours Take Place?
One important detail to understand before booking is that Durango Dog Ranch doesn’t always operate from the same trailhead. The ranch’s primary location is in Hesperus, about 20 minutes from downtown Durango. When conditions require higher-elevation snow, tours may operate from Molas Pass or another mountain location. Some meeting points can be up to 90 minutes from downtown.
The ranch texts guests the confirmed meeting location and directions between 4 and 7 p.m. the evening before their tour. Be sure to provide a working mobile number when reserving your experience, and allow enough driving time to arrive promptly.
You can check current availability and reserve directly through the Durango Dog Ranch winter tour website.
How Much Does Dog Sledding in Durango Cost?
Durango Dog Ranch lists winter dog sledding tours at approximately $395 to $495 per sled, depending on the time of season. Each sled accommodates two adults with a combined weight limit of 375 pounds, not including the guide.
A small lap child may be permitted for an additional $75, subject to the ranch’s specific age, size, and safety requirements. Reservations are made online, must be completed at least 12 hours in advance, and are nonrefundable. Confirm the current price and policies before booking, since availability and seasonal rates can change.
What Should You Wear for Dog Sledding?
Winter temperatures in the San Juan Mountains can be cold, especially when you’re standing on a moving sled. Dress as you would for a full day of skiing, with particular attention to keeping your hands and feet warm.
- Waterproof, insulated winter boots
- Warm base layers made from wool or synthetic materials
- An insulated jacket and windproof outer layer
- Waterproof gloves or mittens
- A warm hat that covers your ears
- Sunglasses or goggles to protect against snow glare
Avoid cotton clothing, which retains moisture and can leave you feeling cold. Even when downtown Durango feels relatively mild, higher-elevation trailheads may have considerably colder conditions.
Make a Day of Your Durango Winter Adventure
Dog sledding in Durango is a great reason to plan a winter getaway, but there’s plenty more to enjoy once the dogs have finished their run. Depending on your tour’s meeting location, you can spend the afternoon exploring downtown Durango, enjoying a leisurely lunch, or heading somewhere warm.
One of our favorite ways to finish an active winter day is with a visit to Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa. Located north of downtown, the resort features 32 natural mineral soaking pools with mountain views. It’s an especially appealing stop when there’s snow on the ground and steam rising from the water. Reservations are recommended, so plan ahead if you’d like to visit after your tour.
If you’re spending several days in Southwest Colorado, you can also plan a ski day at Purgatory Resort, explore groomed cross-country trails at the Durango Nordic Center, or browse the shops and restaurants along historic Main Avenue. Durango has plenty to offer beyond skiing, and dog sledding is one of the more memorable ways to experience the mountains in winter.
Where to Stay for Your Dog Sledding in Durango Adventure
After spending a few hours outdoors in the Colorado mountains, coming back to a comfortable room, a hot tub, and a warm fire sounds pretty appealing. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Antlers on the Creek, our historic Bed and Breakfast along Lightner Creek, just west of downtown Durango.
Originally built in the early 1900s, our property offers five individually appointed guest suites with thoughtful amenities and plenty of room to unwind. Several accommodations feature fireplaces, and our Lightner Creek Suite includes an air-jetted bathtub and a private deck overlooking the backyard. You’ll also find a hot tub on the property, perfect for relaxing after an afternoon in the snow.
One of the pleasures of staying with us is that your day doesn’t have to end when you return from your adventures. Our complimentary happy hour runs from 5 to 6 p.m. daily, featuring homemade hors d’oeuvres prepared by our chef. In the morning, you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared gourmet breakfast featuring seasonal ingredients and local flavors. It’s a lovely way to start the day before heading out for more winter activities.
For a special evening, consider reserving our private Chef’s Table Dinner Experience, a four-course dinner for two prepared by our on-site chef. You can also browse our enhancements and packages for a few extra touches during your stay.
Whether you’re visiting for a romantic weekend or simply looking for something different to do this winter, we’d love to welcome you. Browse our Durango Bed and Breakfast guest rooms and reserve your winter stay now.
Dog Sledding in Durango FAQs
Where can you go dog sledding in Durango, Colorado?
Durango Dog Ranch offers guided dog sledding tours in the San Juan Mountains near Durango. The family-owned kennel is based in Hesperus, approximately 20 minutes west of downtown, but winter tours may depart from other locations depending on snow conditions.
Do you need experience to go dog sledding in Durango?
No previous experience is required. Every tour includes a mushing lesson, and an experienced guide accompanies each sled. Guests can help harness the dogs and try driving the sled themselves.
How long does a Durango dog sledding tour last?
Tours last approximately two hours, including the mushing lesson, harnessing the dogs, time on the sled, and a complimentary hot drink afterward. The actual sled ride is shorter than two hours.
How much does dog sledding in Durango cost?
Durango Dog Ranch currently advertises winter tours ranging from $395 to $495 per sled, depending on the season. Prices are per sled rather than per person, and each sled accommodates up to two adults within the weight limit.
How many people can ride on a dog sled?
Each sled accommodates two adults with a combined weight limit of 375 pounds, excluding the guide. The ranch also permits eligible small lap children for an additional fee, subject to safety restrictions.
When is dog sledding season in Durango?
Winter dog sledding generally begins around Thanksgiving when snow conditions permit. The season depends on available snow, and the ranch may use higher-elevation trails to find suitable conditions. The ranch also offers sled dog experiences during warmer months using wheeled equipment.
What should you wear for dog sledding?
Wear insulated waterproof boots, warm layers, a winter jacket, gloves, and a hat. Sunglasses or goggles are recommended for protection from snow glare. Dress for mountain winter conditions, not the temperature in downtown Durango.
Where should you stay for dog sledding in Durango?
Antlers on the Creek is a historic bed and breakfast along Lightner Creek, just west of downtown Durango. Guests enjoy five comfortable suites, a hot tub, complimentary happy hour, and a homemade gourmet breakfast each morning. It’s a convenient home base for exploring the area’s winter attractions.