Absaroka huskies, Photo by Kristi Gutierrez
The winter season beckons a different kind of experience when you travel that isn’t offered at any other time of the year. If you find yourself near West Yellowstone and you grow bored of bison in the snow, there are plenty of options for playing in powder. In between boarding at Bridger and soaking at Chico, mush your own sled or just bundle up for the ride. Cold weather lovers will gratify their need for adventure by dog sledding through the Gallatin National Forest in Montana.
Located at the historic Chico Hot Springs, Absaroka Dogsled Treks have an array of dogsled experiences that range from the two hour tenderfoot trek to a three day musher’s school. All treks meet at 9:15 a.m. at the dog sled office between the barn and the gift shop on a daily basis. The group then gets a quick lesson in commands and dog sledding. Dogs, guides and mushers then venture approximately 15 minutes by bus or truck through Pray to begin the journey near Snowbank Campground in the Gallatian National Forest.
As the the Alaskan and Siberian huskies are lined up, they howl with energy. Participation is expected, so anticipate doing everything from holding on to the lead dog to steering your own sled. The Yukon half day trek stops half way for a picnic spread that includes French onion soup, hot drinks and cheesecake among other goodies to nibble on. The dogs pick up the pace on the return ride on a primarily downward path that circles back to where you began.
Bundle up with snow gear and bring a bathing suit for a soak at the hot springs after. If you happen to forget something or are not properly outfitted, this seasoned outfit has brisk weather attire that they are happy to let you borrow.
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