For the Best Time Ever: Go Dog Sledding Near Tahquamenon Falls

Want to make memories you will talk about for years? Go dog sledding in Tahquamenon Country! You don’t have to travel to Alaska or Canada to experience an incomparable winter adventure. Our eager dog teams are ready to whisk you away on a thrilling, spirit-soaring ride of a lifetime. Here’s how to meet these tail-wagging, eyes-sparkling, love-to-run pups.

Why Is Tahquamenon Falls Area Ideal for Dog Sledding?

LOTS of snow. Tahquamenon Country boasts 106+ inches annually — far outpacing Ely, MN (Sled Dog Capital of the U.S) which sees only 63 inches of snowfall annually. The pristine flakes pile up between early December through mid-March, building a base for dog sledding. Pair this with miles of winter-wonderland scenery and you will find your stress vanishing in our snowy woods and open fields.

Is Dog Sledding for All Ages and Physical Abilities?

Yes! Babies to older adults can join the fun. It’s also a winter activity that doesn’t leave children and adults with limited physical, mental or sensory abilities on the sidelines. Get on the sled and let’s mush on. What a memory-maker.

Where Can You Meet Sled Dogs in the Winter?

Three dog-sledding centers are within minutes or a day trip from Newberry and Paradise. In January, you also can have the thrill of cheering on many of these dogs in the Tahquamenon Country Dog Sled Race.

Nature’s Kennel Sled Dog Adventures | McMillan

This is one of the premier dog sledding opportunities in Michigan. Fun winter adventure options include:

• Trips seven days a week from December through late March; extra-warm boots are included at no additional charge.
• Half-day tours are available to all ages and abilities. Take a 10-mile guided tour or drive a team (must be 10 years or older).
• Full-day trips for older children and adults include 20–mile adventures and lunch.
• Overnight adventures include meals, lodging and dog sledding.
• Photography Tour.
• Ask about riding to and hiking at Tahquamenon Falls.
• Custom private trips.

Call 906-748-0513 or email info@natureskennel.com to make a reservation.

MI DOG | Michigan’s Summer Sled Dog Center | Winter Tour | Newberry

Exciting news! This dog sledding destination, just 10 miles from Tahquamenon Falls, now offers winter tours on select weekends until mid-March.

• This is a 100% private tour for one to four people. It lasts approximately three hours and includes 45 minutes to an hour on the trail.
• Ride in a dog sled driven by an Iditarod and Yukon Quest finisher.
• Photo breaks with the dogs to capture this unforgettable adventure.
• Cookies and coffee break indoors by the warm glow of the wood-burning stove.

Visit midogtours.com to reserve your time.

Husky Haven | Shingleton

All winter tours are private and unrushed adventures that typically last 3 to 4 hours.

• No age limits.
• Enjoy a guided kennel tour, an engaging lesson on the history of dog sledding and hands-on dog sledding instruction. Then embark on an exhilarating 8 to 10-mile run with the guide and your dog team. There will be plenty of opportunities to capture photos along the way. Upon your return, help care for the dogs and relax in the warm hangar with hot chocolate, cookies and shared memories.

Call 906-452-6014 or email them for more information.

Tahquamenon Country Sled Dog Race | Muskallonge Lake State Park | McMillan

Join sled dog fans in early January to watch 45 teams from all over the U.S. and Canada compete. Runs are three to 37 miles long for purses totally over $10,000! It’s fun for the whole family. Then take time to explore this beautiful park [check for admission fees and renovation closures].

Are There Sled Dog Activities in the Summer, Too?

Are you vacationing in Tahquamenon Country this summer? Visit these places to nuzzle the puppies, meet and greet the sled dogs and learn more about this exhilarating team sport that bonds humans with canines.

Nature’s Kennel Sled Dog Adventures | Summer Camp

“Mushing Camp for Kids” offers girls or boys a few days to immerse in sled dog life, fun camping and the wonders of the U.P. It’s a great way to learn teamwork and dog care. Camps are typically open to campers 11 to 16 years old who are comfortable being away from home in a remote and tranquil place on Earth.

Nature’s Kennel Sled Dog Adventures | “Pulling Together” Education Program for Spring and Fall

Musher and educator Tasha Stielstra combines her five years of classroom teaching with over fifteen years of mushing to create an interactive presentation about teamwork for kindergarteners through eighth graders. Students learn about the value of "Pulling Together" to become safe, kind and responsible citizens. To schedule or customize a program to your curriculum, contact: 906-748-0513 or info@natureskennel.com.

MI DOG | Michigan’s Summer Sled Dog Center | Summer Tour | Newberry

Spend time with a long-distance musher, Laura Neese, and her team that have shared tens of thousands of miles in some of the most grueling conditions — but oh, how they love this sport! This Tahquamenon Country must-stop destination is a winner of Tripadvisor’s 2024 Travelers’ Choice Awards based on millions of reviews.

Plan on 1.5 to two hours total to cuddle the puppies, pet and love on select dogs, get hands-on experience packing a dog sled, dressing like a musher and hearing stories about Neese’s adventures while watching the dogs play. Pack a picnic — there are tables near the sled dog play area. Book your visit between May 24 through September 30 (closed Tuesdays). Visit midogtours.com to make reservations.

Husky Haven | Summer Kennel Tours

Here’s your chance to meet and greet the dogs. Learn how Husky Haven’s staff cares for the sled dogs, how the sled is built and works and about the history of the Iditarod race in Alaska. See the dog truck that transports them to races. When the temperature is below 50 degrees, they may offer rides with the dogs! Tours are by appointment only; call 906-452-6014 or email choprwmn@yahoo.com for more information.

How Do I Pack for a Winter Dog Sledding Adventure?

Dress warmer than you typically would for playing outdoors in the winter. These dogs move fast and create a frosty breeze. Pack:

• Warm winter jacket and warm pants (a shell or snow pants that will stay dry).
• Well-insulated winter boots.
• Warm hat, scarf or gaiter, glove liners, mittens and socks.
• Wear layers. Your base layer, closest to your skin, should be made of synthetic or wool material — including long underwear. For your middle layer, wear a warm fleece, sweatshirt or sweater.

Plan the Best Dog Sledding Adventure Ever

Sled dogs are some of the most joyful animals and our mushers love to share them with you in the winter and summer. Plan to make your base in Newberry or Paradise for at least a day or two. Book your stay early at Tahquamenon Country’s lodgings to get the amenities and rates you want … and a restful night after your happy times with the dogs.

When you return from your dog sledding adventure, catch a meal or a snack at our Newberry or Paradise restaurants and cafés. More best-ever adventures in Tahquamenon Country are happening tomorrow!