Check Mark 26: Mush Sled Dogs

When I was younger, my favorite books were Jack London's "The Call of the Wild" and "White Fang".  I loved reading about sled dogs!  I just knew one day I had to ride with a sled dog team despite my dislike of cold weather.  With the help of my husband, I got all the necessities to brave the cold season in Alaska and discovered my love for Smart Wool products!!

In March of 2013, we packed up all our gear and took off for Fairbanks, Alaska.  Our travel agent booked several excursions for us and one was to ride with sled dogs.  On the big day, a driver picked us up and took us to this little house off the grid in the outskirts of Fairbanks.  Here we saw where and how the dogs lived and got the full, real experience.  They took us into their home, gave us a tour, and talked to us about how the dogs are trained.

We played with the dogs while the owners got the team ready.  At first we rode with the team through trails near their house.  Then, when we were about halfway finished with our ride, they offered for us to mush!!  I could never have imagined I would have this opportunity but it was a dream come true.  With a little instruction, my husband and I mushed sled dog teams for the first time!