Dog mushing is a big part of Alaska’s history—and it’s still very much alive today. Long before roads connected communities, sled dogs were how people traveled, moved supplies, and stayed connected through winter. What started as a necessity became a tradition, a sport, and a way of life that many Alaskans still care deeply about.
At Alpine Air Alaska, we’re proud to work alongside Mitch Seavey and Ididaride Kennel to give guests a real look at modern dog mushing—right where future race dogs train, high on an Alaskan glacier.
A Quick Look at Alaska’s Dog Mushing Roots
Dog teams have been used in Alaska for well over a century. During the Gold Rush and early territorial days, sled dogs hauled mail, food, and medicine across hundreds of miles of snow-covered terrain. They were essential to survival in remote areas.
Today, dog mushing is best known through long-distance races like the Iditarod, but behind every race is years of daily care, training, and strong bonds between mushers and their dogs.
The Seavey Family and Ididaride Kennel
The Seavey family is one of the most respected names in Alaska dog mushing. Mitch Seavey is a multi-time Iditarod champion and lifelong musher, known not just for winning races, but for his thoughtful approach to dog care and training.
At Ididaride Kennel, the focus is on raising confident, healthy dogs that enjoy their work. Guests who visit don’t just see a performance—they’re stepping into a working kennel where real training happens every day.
Why Summer Glacier Dog Camps Are So Important
Many people are surprised to learn that sled dogs train year-round. Summer glacier camps play a huge role in preparing dogs for winter racing.
Glacier training provides:
- Cool temperatures that are safe for dogs to run
- Snow conditions similar to winter trails
- Space to build strength, endurance, and teamwork
These camps are where young dogs gain experience and seasoned dogs stay sharp. Visiting a glacier dog camp means you’re seeing the heart of Iditarod training—not a staged experience.
Alaska’s Only Tether-Free Glacier Dogsledding Tour
Alpine Air Alaska and Ididaride Kennel offer the only tether-free glacier dogsledding experience in the state of Alaska.
Instead of being tied to individual doghouses, our dogs live in pens on the glacier, where they can:
- Socialize in small family groups
- Move around, rest, and play when not training
- Develop strong pack bonds
We believe this setup leads to happier dogs and better athletes—and it shows. The dogs are excited, engaged, and genuinely eager to run.
Your Tour Helps Train Future Champions
When you book a glacier dogsledding tour, you’re doing more than taking an unforgettable ride—you’re directly supporting the dogs and the program that trains them.
Your visit helps cover:
- Daily care and feeding
- Ongoing summer training
- Preparation for winter racing and long-distance events
Every tour helps keep this tradition going and supports the next generation of sled dogs.
The Ultimate Summer Tour: More Flying, More Glacier Time
Want to take your experience even further? Our Ultimate Summer Tour pairs any flightseeing tour with Glacier Dogsledding, giving you more time both in the air and on the ice.
This option lets you:
- Enjoy a longer scenic helicopter flight over glaciers, mountains, and wildlife-rich terrain
- Land on the glacier for dogsledding with the Ididaride team
- Make the most of your time by combining two bucket-list experiences into one seamless adventure
If you’re looking for the best value and the most immersive way to experience Alaska by helicopter, this is it.
A Real Alaska Experience, Shared From the Glacier
Dog mushing isn’t just history—it’s a living tradition. Through our partnership with Mitch Seavey’s Ididaride Kennel, Alpine Air Alaska is proud to share an experience that’s authentic, hands-on, and centered on the well-being of the dogs.
If you’re ready to meet the dogs training for future races and experience Alaska from above, we’d love to help you plan the perfect adventure.