I gripped the handlebar tightly, placed my feet on the drag pad, and yelled “Let’s Go!” The four dogs eagerly bounded off as I hung on trying to steer the sled. My feet remained on the drag pad for several minutes, using it as a brake to slow the energetic dogs. I tried to remember all the instructions: lean into the turns, twist my feet on the runners/drag pad, and never let go. I looked up into the wooded landscape and could hardly believe it – I was actually dog sledding and driving my own team. I smiled, filled with excitement for what the next hour would bring.
We went slower at first, my team following behind my guide and her team as we twisted around bends in the trail. About five minutes into the ride I began to think this wasn’t so hard and began imagining what a pro I was. Ha! As we rounded the next curve, I leaned out a little too soon and the sled tipped to the side. As I felt myself falling with the sled, I squeezed the handlebar. I was not going to let go! The dogs stopped as I yelled to the guide, but I quickly righted the sled and we were off again. Besides, even Iditarod mushers have fallen off their sleds, so I figure I’m in good company.
We spent the next hour traversing the woods, moving easily from one trail to another. We went up and down slight hills and several good-sized bumps; my guide, Lyndsie, always warning when a turn or bump was coming up. The dogs often reached for the snow along the side of the trail, grabbing mouthfuls the way runners gulp water during their runs. Remembering to control the sled, I took time to look up and enjoy the beautiful winter scenery surrounding us. Alongside large barren trees grew tender beech saplings, their golden leaves shimmering in the breeze. The snow and grey, cloudy sky accentuated the beautiful leaves and trees. It was truly a winter wonderland.
We stopped about halfway to give the dogs a rest. They rolled around in the snow, their long tongues panting. One even used the opportunity to relieve herself by the side of the trail. (Note: I did find that dogs will poop when they’re running; nope, they never stop!) After hugging and petting the dogs, we took a few photos. And then the dogs were ready to get moving again – with renewed energy after their little break.
I made it past the spot where I had fallen when we started – I leaned into the turn just like a pro! As we neared the kennel, the rest of the dogs howled out their welcome, and I glided the sled to a smooth stop, shouting out a “Whoa!” to my dog team.
Anyone want to do the overnight trip with me?
Here's a video I put together of my experience. Unfortunately, the camcorder didn't work quite the way we wanted, so the video clips don't show up full-screen (the camcorder is now labeled correctly). I highly recommend dog sledding, although I hear it can be addicting.
