Snowy Owl Sled Dog Tours
Harnessing Dreams Since 1983
Snowy Owl
Sled Dog Tours
Harnessing Dreams Since 1983

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Summer Tours & Packages

“Where are your summer tours operated?”

Our summer adventure dog cart tours are located at Boundary Ranch in iconic Kananaskis Country in Alberta, Canada, a short drive from Canmore. The shaded trail is nestled between vast mountain ranges and towering forests. Your tour includes entry into Boundary Ranch’s Guinn Wildlife Family Museum. We also have an office and retail store located in downtown Canmore.

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“Does it ever get too hot for the dogs to run?”

Our dog’s wellbeing is our number one priority! Tours will only operate when temperatures are below 25c degrees.  Luckily, the trail at Boundary Ranch is in the trees and very shaded. We also make a few stops along the way for the dogs to have a breather. The tours only operate in the morning, when temperatures are cooler. On really hot days we only run an early morning tour.

“Are your staff allowed to accept gratuities?”

If you feel you’ve received exceptional service, our guides, drivers and/or reservations agents welcome tips. Gratuities are at your own discretion and are certainly appreciated.

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“How fast do the dogs run & how many dogs on a team?”

Our dryland tours are designed to cruise at a mellow pace. Since dogs are living beings and are not a constant, speed can differ. Our teams are structured every day based on the weight they are pulling, the trail conditions and their run/rest schedule. These custom teams are designed with your safety and enjoyment in mind. Guests can expect to see teams from 8-12 husky heroes.

“Do we get to interact with the husky hero dogs?”

Of course!  Most all of our dogs LOVE to visit with our guests however, we do have some shy dogs who have been rescued from kennels that have been neglected.  These dogs will be wearing blue bandannas for our guests to easily identify and give them space.  There will also be some of our pack members wearing green bandannas – these husky heroes are over-the-top friendly and love to chew on our guest’s clothing and will even grab your hand with their mouth when you go to leave because they want you to stay and pet them!

“Can we bring treats for our team?”

We ask that our guests do not bring any food for our pack given their very specific diets.  Our dogs receive 3 cups of high-calorie broth mixed with kibble and canned food after every tour, followed by a cube of beef/bison meat as a nice tasty treat!  Our two-legged team will be feeding our husky heroes to ensure they are receiving all necessary nutrition and hydration requirements.

“What breeds of dog do you use & are they big/fluffy?”

Yes, some of our husky heroes are big however, many people have a misconception that all sled dogs are huge and fluffy – this is mostly because of the many movies featuring the “show-style” Siberian husky and Alaskan Malamute. However, there are many sled dog breeds that exist that are smaller than the arctic breeds.  We use the Canadian Indian Husky, Seppala Siberian Sled Dog, Siberian Husky, Alaskan Malamute, Canadian Inuit Husky, Alaskan Husky and the Alaskan Racing husky.  Meet our pack here!

“Why is there a per cart weight limit?”

We believe that dog sledding should be mutually enjoyed between both our guests and our pack. Our intention is to never take advantage of our husky heroes’ desire to run and pull. Our dryland carts are designed to hold up to 4 participants with a maximum weight of 800lbs.

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“Do you take individuals with disabilities, physical restrictions, medical conditions, or are pregnant?”

Yes!  We always recommend that a medical professional is consulted prior to making a reservation to ensure dog carting is an appropriate activity to participate in and any restrictions noted can then be passed on to our team. We have had the pleasure of taking many visitors with mobility restrictions, terminal illnesses, pregnant women as well as hearing impaired and visually impaired guests.  At the time of reservation, our team will discuss options to ensure anyone with and restrictions/conditions are comfortable and supported.

“How long does your summer dry cart tour season last?”

Our dryland tours in Kananaskis run from spring (June 2, 2022) to late October, weather depending.

“Can we take photos and videos while on our tour?”

Yes of course!

“Are there any age restrictions?”

Our dryland dog cart tours are suitable for participants aged 3 and older. Kids aged 3+ and under 30 pounds ride free on parents laps.