Tag: Fairbanks

Categories
Alaskan Huskies Alaskan Tips

The Ultimate Destination for Dog Sledding

Dog Sledding with a professional mushing team in Fairbanks Alaska

The Thrilling World of Dog Sledding in Fairbanks

Are you ready for an exhilarating adventure in the snowy wilderness?  Look no further than the exciting world of dog sledding, also known as mushing!  And if you’re looking for the perfect destination to experience this unique winter sport, Fairbanks, Alaska, should be top on your list.

From adrenaline-pumping races like the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race to immersive guided tours, this timeless practice continues to enchant and educate travelers from all walks of life.  Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a history enthusiast, dog sledding in Fairbanks offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the remarkable bond between man and dog.

You don’t need prior experience or physical prowess to enjoy this incredible sport.  Professional guides are readily available to teach you how to safely handle the sled, work with the dogs, and navigate various terrains.  Beyond just being an adrenaline-pumping adventure, dog sledding also allows you to connect on a deeper level with nature.  As you glide silently through untouched landscapes, surrounded by snow-capped trees and majestic mountains, you’ll feel at one with your surroundings.

The Rich History and Cultural Significance of Dog Sledding in Alaska

Dog sledding in Fairbanks has a rich history and cultural significance that captivates locals and visitors alike.  This beloved winter sport is deeply ingrained in the fabric of the community.  One cannot fully appreciate the significance of dog sledding with Alaskan Huskies without acknowledging its roots in native Alaskan traditions.

For centuries, indigenous peoples have relied on dogs as trusted companions and invaluable modes of transportation across vast frozen landscapes.  The bond between humans and their sled dogs goes beyond mere utility; it is a deep connection rooted in mutual respect and dependence.  Mushing and racing stand as a testament to this enduring tradition.

Beyond its historical significance, dog sledding offers an immersive experience for adventurous travelers seeking an authentic taste of local life.  Guided tours allow participants to witness firsthand how these magnificent creatures work together as a team, pulling sleds effortlessly through snow-covered trails.

Dog Sledding In Alaska with a professional Mushing Alaskan Husky Dog Sled TeamThe Unparalleled Natural Beauty and Terrain of Fairbanks

Fairbanks is blessed with a winter wonderland that seems straight out of a fairy tale.  The vast expanse of untouched snow transforms the landscape into a pristine white canvas.  As you glide through the trails, you’ll be surrounded by towering trees adorned with delicate icicles, creating a magical atmosphere that is genuinely awe-inspiring.

Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure or want to immerse yourself in nature’s splendor, Fairbanks offers an unrivaled experience in dog sledding.  Its picturesque winter landscape, scenic trails meandering through snow-covered forests, and frozen rivers waiting to be conquered make it an ideal destination for anyone seeking a truly unforgettable dog sledding experience.

Not only will you have an unforgettable experience dog sledding in Fairbanks, but there are also so many other thrilling winter activities for you to enjoy.  From ice skating to snowboarding, the options are endless and sure to keep your adrenaline pumping.  From witnessing the mesmerizing Aurora borealis to ice fishing and snowshoeing adventures, Fairbanks, Alaska, offers a wide range of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Unique Experience of Interacting with Sled Dogs & Puppies

The thrill of gliding across icy terrain while being surrounded by breathtaking Arctic scenery is unmatched.  Moreover, dog sledding provides an opportunity for individuals to learn about responsible animal care for these working dogs.

The bond that forms between mushers and dogs during these expeditions is truly remarkable – these loyal animals become not just your teammates but also your friends.  If you’re worried about animal welfare or ethical concerns when it comes to dog sledding, fear not!  Dog sled operators prioritize the well-being of their canine athletes.

These dogs are bred and trained specifically for this purpose and are treated with utmost care and love.  They are given plenty of rest, proper nutrition, and veterinary care to ensure their health and happiness.

Dog Sledding In the Summer in Fairbanks AlaskaPlan Your Trip to Fairbanks Today and Embark on an Unforgettable Dog Sledding Adventure!

So, whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for an exciting winter adventure or want to experience the magic of dog sledding in a pristine wilderness, Fairbanks is the place to be.  Immerse yourself in the world of mushing and create memories that will last a lifetime.  Get ready to embark on an epic journey through snow-covered landscapes.

Experienced guides and mushers at Trail Breaker Kennel are readily available to ensure your safety and provide valuable insights into this ancient practice.  Family-owned and operated since 1976, Trail Breaker is one of the longest-operating kennels in Alaska.  Founded by the late Susan Butcher, a four-time Iditarod champion, and her husband David Monson, a Yukon Quest champion, the kennel has a rich history rooted in the world of dog sledding.

You can also learn about the history and cultural significance of dog sledding from knowledgeable locals who have deep-rooted connections to this traditional mode of transportation.  It is an excellent time for all ages and is conveniently located near the Fairbanks airport. 

Categories
Alaskan Huskies Alaskan Tips News

Enjoy The Fall in Fairbanks, Alaska

Alaskan husky dogs playing in Fairbanks Alaska Fall changing leaves.

The Seasons Are Changing At Trail Breaker Kennel

Fall in Fairbanks Alaska at Trail Breaker Kennel
We are ready to usher in the Fall here in Fairbanks! As we have wrapped up our 2022 Summer season, we wanted to send out a big “Thank you!” to all our fantastic guests who have visited us this summer. It’s been so lovely to welcome people back to the kennel from all over the United States and beyond this season, and we’ve had many great moments with all of our visitors. We also appreciate all of the 5-star reviews!

During the summer, our guests have learned about the history of dog mushing and Trail Breaker Kennel.  We taught how to dress for cold and dark winter runs with the sled, how we train husky puppies from day one, and MUCH more! Our Alaskan guides shared fun stories from their adventures (and misadventures) on the sled and answered many good questions regarding the ‘dog sled’ racing lifestyle and our world of dog mushing and Alaskan Huskies We are leaving the season with unforgettable memories and inspiration to make this coming winter yet another successful one for the whole Trail Breaker crew!

Create A Lasting Connection With An Alaskan Husky

Two Women Meeting An Alaskan Husky in Fairbanks Alaska.We have quite a few guests who return to the kennel from as far as Florida or overseas for tours with us in Alaska.  Sharon and her husband Kurt are two return visitors who have been to Trail Breaker Kennel multiple times. They have said they have enjoyed coming in different seasons. And, sometimes, extra unique connections are made with these repeat visits.

Woman playing with alaskan husky in Fairbanks during winter tour.

A lovely Floria couple first met Havak as a puppy and fell in love with him. They’ve since been back to visit us a few times, both in winter (pictured), and the latest time they met was this summer. Of course, we made sure that they got some extra Havak time (see Havak, Sharon, and our guide Kiana pictured).

They’ve also decided to become Havak’s sponsors, and we’re so excited they’ll have a chance to help support Havak and stay updated on Havak’s season through our sponsor updates. It’s beautiful to have our dogs be cared for and loved by so many people, and we’re lucky to have such fantastic support from you all. Find out more about becoming a dog sponsor.

What To Do In Fairbanks This Fall

Alaskan husky dogs playing in Fairbanks Alaska Fall changing leaves.

The change of season means a change of priorities around Trail Breaker Kennel. The cooler mornings mean we can take the sled dogs out on longer training runs to prepare them for race season. Tekla Butcher-Monson (TBK General Manager and Race Musher) has already started the process of putting miles on the Varsity and JV race teams!

TBK Tour Guide, Katrina Handler, has been spending time working with the rest of the kennel, getting them ready for adventures and expeditions this winter. As the miles are still relatively short, Tekla and Katrina have opened their training runs up to Fairbanks guests for the Fall season. You can book your autumn “SLED DOG CART RIDE” to see what it’s like to run dogs or have a sled dog experience in Alaska before there is snow on the ground.
Tekla Monson of Trail Breaker Kennel in Eureka Alaska training.Fresh Picked Alaskan Berries.

In preparation for the snow flying and longer miles, some of the

TBK crew headed out to our remote training camp in Eureka, AK (150 miles north of Fairbanks) to prepare for November, when Tekla and the dog racing team will head out for a month to train for the racing season. The training camp in Eureka is the same remote training camp that Susan Butcher used to train at years ago. The Trail Breaker Kennel guides and a few Alaskan Huskies enjoyed the weekend raking, brush cutting, chopping wood, and picking berries (pictured).

Support Us This Season at TBK

As we head into the winter/race season, many people have asked us how they can help support the Trail Breaker team! First of all, if you can, come and visit us in Fairbanks and book a fall or winter tour with us.  We are also happy to announce that our Race Dog Sponsorships are open for the 2022/23 race season! You can also sign up for our newsletter to get information about updates, race season, sponsorship, and more!

Sponsorships are so important to sled dog racing because they allow us to give our beloved huskies the best care possible to stay happy and healthy while doing what they love. Tekla and the dogs plan to run 2 mid-distance races this winter and are so excited to bring sponsors along on the journey as part of the team. Learn how to become a sponsor today!

Categories
News Trail Breaker History

Summer In Fairbanks At Trail Breaker Kennel

Summer Fairbanks Riverboat Discovery Tour Stoping At Trail Breaker Kennel

Enjoying The Summer With Our Sled Dogs

Summertime in Fairbanks at Trail Breaker Kennel means lots of tours and lots of love for our sled dogs and puppies! This summer, we have been lucky enough to partner with several new tour companies to bring their guests an authentic sled dog experience and an exciting look into the Alaskan dog mushing lifestyle. Guests from all over the world have the opportunity to visit Trail Breaker Kennel to cuddle husky puppies, experience an exciting training demonstration and hear authentic racing stories from our experienced staff of race mushers.

Meet Our NBA Alaskan Husky Puppies

Litter of Trail Breaker Kennel Alaskan Husky Puppies in Fairbanks Named After NBA Teams.

If you have been to Trail Breaker Kennel this summer, you probably met a litter of 6 adorable grey and brown sled dog puppies. These Alaskan husky pups, born to mother Jenna of Robinson Racing Kennel, were finally bestowed with names at 8 weeks old after much deliberation. We asked you, our online community, for name suggestions, and we were so excited by all the excellent responses! Thank you for helping us. As the puppies developed their personalities, we weighed our favorite theme options… and while the FRIENDS theme (Joey, Monica, Rachel, Chandler, Phoebe & Ross) was a close runner-up, we went with NBA teams. Take a look at how cute the puppies are!

Our Summer Stars Of The Kennel

While our puppies at Trail Braker Kennel are the cutest, they are not the only age group enjoying having guests visit us in Fairbanks this summer. At 1.5 years old, this is the first year in “show business” for the Chiska x Slim litter (Dale, Indy, Cushman, Farmer, and Steese). These guys have impressed staff and guests alike with their enthusiasm and maturity this summer. Just last winter, they were still goofy yearlings learning how to handle themselves in harnesses; now, they have become cool and confident 2 year olds who are excited to demonstrate their abilities daily for guests on the Riverboat Discovery Tour. This litter of yearlings will be graduating to training with the race pool this winter, and we are looking forward to trying them out in their first 100-150 mile race! If you are interested in supporting these youngsters in their first racing season, please consider sponsoring a sled dog for winter 22/23! 

A Special Summer Event In Fairbanks

Special Picture of Brides Taken At Wedding Event Venue in Fairbanks Alaska.

Finally, we are happy to announce that we hosted our first wedding on the kennel property this July! We are so excited to become a more active event venue in the coming years. This Fairbanks couple was blessed with a beautiful night to celebrate their love at the TBK pond.

After their ceremony, the newlyweds were greeted by their guests on the banks of the Chena River. From there, they went for a sled dog cart ride, which delivered them to the event tent for their reception! The children (and adults) in attendance were delighted at the presence of “wedding puppies,” and by the end of the night, all dogs and humans were thoroughly socialized!

Book Your Fairbanks Event With Us!

If you are interested in hosting your next event at Trail Breaker Kennel, please reach out to us. We are excited to share our beautiful waterfront property and Alaskan lifestyle with our Alaskan community!

Categories
Alaskan Huskies News

Welcoming 2022 In Fairbanks, Alaska

Sled Dogs Mushing on Tana River

2022 has arrived and winter is in full swing here in Fairbanks, Alaska. With the temperature dipping below negative 40, our days have been spent keeping the dogs happy and doing our best to stay warm. Our evenings have been spent huddled by the fire, sewing dog jackets, booties, harnesses, and any other gear that might be in need of repair. The work doesn’t stop, even at 40 below. This weather has been great for preparing us for the upcoming race season, which is fast approaching and expected to be a cold one.

 

20 Alaskan Sled Dogs Pulling Sno Go In Dog Jackets In While Mountains

Dog Teams Training In The White Mountains

Our team will be competing in their first race starting on January 8th, the Copper Basin 300. Being so early in the season, the team could be up against some pretty cold temperatures and tough trail conditions. In order to prepare for that, we need to be equipped with the best gear for ourselves and the dogs. Staying warm can be tricky business up north. Some of the dog’s high quality everyday gear includes dog jackets, booties, harnesses, high calorie food, meat snacks, fat snacks, and much more. Our dogs are high performance athletes, and they get treated as such! While the mushers aren’t quite as high performance, it can still be a chore keeping ourselves warm. We don’t have the nice, thick coats that the dogs do so we depend on high quality gear made specifically for these temperatures and conditions.

Kiana Eating Hilltop Pie In The White Mountains

Mushers Working Hard

(and taking some breaks to eat pie)

As you know, we’ve been teasing some exciting new changes here recently, and we’re thrilled to say they are finally here! From the comfort of your home, you can keep up to date with our teams and information on their races as we head into 2022. Head to our website​ and click here or on the Racing tab for details on our mushers Tekla Butcher-Monson and Kiana Korta, which races they’re training for, and information on how you can sponsor the kennel and their teams!

One Year Old Alaskan Husky In Fairbanks Alaska

Alaskan Husky Puppy Update

Our Fairbanks’ Puppy Litter is officially grown! On November 13, the youngest members of our crew, including Cushman (pictured), turned one year old! This year, these guys will be participating in some fun runs while learning the ropes from their more senior teammates. They’ve still got a couple of years before they are on the race team, but they are more than excited to participate in tours and short runs. They still have more energy than they know what to do with. Some things never change!

 

 

Sled Dogs Mushing on Tana River

Get To Know Our Mushers & Sled Dogs

You can also meet the huskies of Trail Breaker Kennel! To do so, head to the Our Huskies ​tab for information on each dog and amusing descriptions of their unique and special personalities. Just like us humans, no husky is the same! You can even sponsor your favorite member of our team (or even the one you think is cutest!)

We wanted to make it easy for you and all those who have supported us through the years to follow along and get to know our team a little better. Of course, many of you know Susan’s story, but now you can follow along as her legacy in the mushing world continues through her eldest daughter Tekla.

We would love for you to visit us and experience the Alaskan Musher lifestyle for a tour in Fairbanks Alaska for a winter or summer tour! We are just a short drive from the Fairbanks airport, and can accommodate the whole family!

Categories
News

What is it like to be an Alaskan Musher? | Riley Dyche 

Riley Copper Basin 300

Meet the Mushers at Trail Breaker Kennel: Riley Dyche 

What is it like to be an Alaskan musher? That’s a good question that we get a lot. Earlier this season we sat down with Tekla Monson to chat about her first sled dog race. Today, we are chatting with veteran Iditarod and Yukon Quest musher Riley Dyche, Trail Breaker Kennel’s very own Kennel Manager.

Riley spent the first 18 years of his life in the small town of Farragut, Iowa. It wasn’t until he went to college in Leadville, Colorado, that he was introduced to the world of sled dogs. In 2013, he moved up to Alaska and has since opened his own kennel, participated in countless mid-distance and long-distance races across the state of Alaska, and joined the team at Trail Breaker Kennel.

We caught up with Riley before the busy summer season to learn more about Alaskan Mushing from a musher’s perspective in 2021! We think you’ll learn a little bit more about Trail Breaker Kennel, Alaskan Huskies, mushing, Sled Dogs, and more!

 

What sparked your initial interest in sled dogs and mushing?

I grew up with hunting dogs and always had an affinity for working dogs, but it wasn’t until I went off to college that I started working with sled dogs and learned about this lifestyle. That’s where my passion for the sport of mushing began.

How long have you been with Trail Breaker Kennel?

I had heard of Susan and David’s story when I moved up to Alaska in 2013. When I raced in the 1,000-mile Yukon Quest, I learned more about David’s story. In the fall of 2019, I joined the team at Trail Breaker. I’m honored to continue Trail Breaker Kennel’s legacy and have an opportunity to learn from the mushers here.

Who are other mushers you admire?

While training in Eureka this winter, Brent Sass (three-time Yukon Quest Champion) was a great friend and neighbor to me. He’s a great musher, and I was fortunate to learn from and mush with him this year. Working at Trail Breaker has allowed me to learn more about David and Susan’s philosophy. It’s no shock why they are held in such high esteem in the mushing community.

What races have you participated in? Which are you planning to?

I have raced in both 1,000-mile races in Alaska: the Iditarod and Yukon Quest. I have also competed in quite a few mid-distance races: the Two Rivers 200, Old Mail Trail 200, and Copper Basin 300.

What is your mushing goal for 2021 and beyond?

My goal is to maintain a kennel of happy and healthy dogs. The time I spent in Eureka at the Trail Breaker homestead really benefited my dogs and me. They are a fast, strong, happy, and smooth-moving team. In the future, I hope to become a serious contender in the Iditarod. That is where all of the best teams in the world congregate, so I want to show that my dogs and I can hang. I’m fully aware that it’s not an overnight process to get to that caliber, so I’m putting in my time and doing all I can to become the best musher I can be.

Anything else we should know?

I never grew up thinking that I would become a musher. But I’m happy I did! This career path has allowed me to share a mutual passion for mushing with my amazing canine athletes. I feel most at home when I’m on the trail with my dogs, exploring the great state of Alaska. I wouldn’t trade this in for anything.

Riley @ Tbk
Riley enjoying a sunny day at Trail Breaker Kennel

Keep up to date with Riley and our Sled Dogs in 2021!

Make sure to follow and like our Instagram and Facebook to keep up to date with what’s going on with Riley and all of the mushers at Trail Breaker Kennel in 2021!

Meet all of us in Fairbanks, Alaska!

Trail Breaker Kennel is conveniently located a mile from the Fairbanks International Airport and 15 minutes from downtown Fairbanks. Learn about Alaskan Mushers and why we have so many 5-star reviews for yourself by booking your Alaskan tour with us!

Categories
News

What is it like to be an Alaskan Musher? | Tekla Monson

Musher Tekla Trail Breaker Kennel

Meet the Mushers at Trail Breaker Kennel: Tekla Monson

What is it like to be an Alaskan musher? That’s a good question that we get a lot. Today we will introduce you to Tekla Monson, one of Trail Breaker Kennel’s mushers who are about to hit the race trail.

Tekla Monson is the eldest daughter of kennel founders Susan Butcher and David Monson and is the Creative Director and Lead Tour Guide at Trail Breaker Kennel. She grew up surrounded by Alaskan huskies, spending the first years of her life at the Trail Breaker homestead in Eureka, Alaska. At the age of five, Susan taught her to drive her own one-dog team sled, and she has never stopped mushing. This March, Tekla will participate in her first mid-distance race, the 200-mile Ididn’trod Invitational.

We sat down with Tekla in between training runs to learn more about Alaskan Mushing from a musher’s perspective in 2021! We think you’ll learn a little bit more about Trail Breaker Kennel, Alaskan Huskies, Sled Dogs, and more!

 

What sparked your initial interest in sled dogs and mushing?

Tekla:  I grew up surrounded by sled dogs and mushing. There isn’t a time I remember where sled dogs weren’t involved in my life. But, growing up around sled dogs and mushing because of your parents is different than sparking your own interest. My interest in mushing and sled dogs began when I moved back home to Fairbanks in December of 2019. After spending a year and a half in New York City, I started to appreciate the lifestyle I grew up in. Living in a city really made me miss that.

How long have you been with Trail Breaker Kennel?

Tekla: My whole life! Throughout my childhood, I would watch my parents welcome visitors to the kennel on the Riverboat Discovery. Around age 12, I started helping out, spending my winters at school and summers working at the kennel. About a year ago, I moved back to Alaska full time and became TBK’s Creative Director. It’s been fun to get more involved with the business my parents started so many years ago. It’s a new generation but still feels like classic TBK.

Who are other Mushers you admire?

Tekla: I am fortunate to have grown up as the child of Susan Butcher and David Monson because right there are two mushers I greatly admire. My mom broke barriers in the sport of mushing, showing that women could compete on the same level as men and win. People tell me how much my mom inspired them, which is amazing to hear because she inspires me too. This winter was my first time seriously training for a race, and my dad was a constant supporter. I grew up understanding that he was a musher, but it’s been fun to see him talk about the details and specifics with me. I now know why he and my mom made such a great team.

What races have you participated in? Which are you planning to?

Tekla: In 2006 and again in 2012, I mushed 700 miles of the Iditarod trail with my dad and younger sister to honor my mom’s legacy. While I wasn’t competing, it was a great experience to get out on the actual trail, travel with the racers, and visit the communities and villages my mom stopped at numerous times throughout her career. This year I’m participating in my first mid-distance race, the 200-mile Ididn’trod Invitational.

What is your mushing goal for 2021 and beyond?

Tekla: I hope to finish my first race with a happy and healthy team. I’m not putting too much pressure on myself, as this is my first foray into competitive mushing, but I’m looking forward to getting out into the Alaskan wilderness with the Trail Breaker dogs.

Anything else we should know?

Tekla: More than anything, I love the hospitality along the trail. Coming together over some frozen trail snacks at a shelter cabin is my idea of a winter evening well spent. Dog mushing allows for this lifestyle, and it brings me so much joy to share these experiences with my fellow recreational and competitive mushers.

Tekla & David
Tekla with her dad, and founder of Trail Breaker Kennel, David Monson

Keep up to date with Tekla and our Sled Dogs in 2021!

Make sure to follow and like our Instagram and Facebook to keep up to date with what’s going on at Trail Breaker Kennel in 2021!

Meet all of us in Fairbanks, Alaska!

Trail Breaker Kennel is conveniently located a mile from the Fairbanks International Airport and 15 minutes from downtown Fairbanks. Learn about Alaskan Mushers and why we have so many 5-star reviews for yourself by booking your Alaskan tour with us!

Categories
Alaskan Tips News

What Do I Wear for an Alaskan Dog Sled Tour?

Winter sled dog Tour

Things to Know About Your Trail Breaker Kennel Winter Tour in Fairbanks, Alaska

Before we get started on what to wear for an Alaskan dog sled tour, Yes, you need to reserve your spot on a winter tour with us at Trail Breaker Kennel. We do not accept walk-ups. You can book your tour here. Also, because it’s been a crazy year with COVID19, please read our current policies as of January 2021 here. 

What is the Winter Dress Code in Alaska?

One crucial thing to know before packing what you’re going to wear in Fairbanks, Alaska, for a winter dog sled tour or just on your Alaskan vacation: Think practical; there is no set fashion code in Alaska. 

We cannot speak for everyone, but many people in Fairbanks wear the same clothes for work, errands, and dinner at a local restaurant. So if you’ve been out exploring the Alaskan frontier all day and ready for dinner, don’t think you need to go home and change first for any reason. Any warm and comfortable clothes will do!

How to Dress for Winter in Fairbanks

The average winter temps in Fairbanks, Alaska, are undoubtedly cold. From November 8 to February 26, we have an average daily high temperature below 16°F. January is typically our coldest month with an average high-temperature of 1°F. Look at the data if you don’t believe us!

You will need the proper attire to enjoy your tour. Cold hands and cold or wet feet will not make for a good experience. You want to keep your extremities safe! Make sure to be prepared with good socks, base layers, insulating layers, a neck gaiter/scarf, and a hat.

We want you to be warm and safe on your sled ride or any winter experience you have with us. Great gear can be expensive. If you don’t want to invest in cold weather gear for your trip to Alaska, we highly recommend renting quality outerwear through our partners at Alaska Element. For only $30 per person per day, they will hook you up with all the winter gear you will need to keep you warm for your time in Fairbanks. Send an email to heather@alaskaelement.com, let her know Trail Breaker Kennel sent you, and they will handle all the rest! 

Dressing in Layers in Alaska is a Must

The primary key to dressing for Alaska is layers! You should have enough layers to feel comfortable without losing your mobility. You should able to put your arms down for putting on your boots. Layers can capture insulated air to conserve the heat that your body produces. They should also help you keep your temperature regulated.

We want you to be warm, but not too warm. You may have too many layers; you could end up cold and damp, which is not what you want! Make sure your layers can fit over each other, do not be afraid to size up accordingly by layer!  

Suggested Gear for a Dog Sled Ride or Winter Tour in Fairbanks, Alaska

We ask that you refrain from too much cotton; it does not insulate as well in the cooler temps, especially if it becomes wet! Also, avoid rubber boots without any wool liner.

Here is what you will need:

  • A warm hat that covers your ears
  • A neck gaiter, which is sometimes called a Buff or neck warmer, is a small clothing accessory worn around the neck and can be easier than a scarf
  • Base layers, long underwear/leggings (think moisture-wicking materials like polyester)
  • A light insulating layer to go over your long underwear (fleece or wool)
  • A Down or synthetic vest 
  • A Heavy insulating layer – Primaloft, wool, or down 
  • A Windproof/Water Resistant Shell (Remember to size up with layers)
  • Wool or wool-blend hiking socks (Probably want to double up)
  • Winter boots that are big enough to allow you to wear a couple of pairs of thick socks ( Like your layers, you don’t want to lose mobility of your toes)
  • Light Liner gloves, it might be a good idea to have a second pair just in case, too (your first pair of two)
  • Windproof gloves or mittens 
  • Probably also want to pack hand and toe warmers, chapstick, sunglasses, and anything else that will keep you comfortable.

Now that You Know what to Wear in Alaska

Book your Alaskan dog sled tour with us! Trail Breaker Kennel is conveniently located a mile from the Fairbanks International Airport and 15 minutes from downtown Fairbanks. This must-experience for dog-lovers is perfect for all Fairbanks, Alaska visitors. Learn why we have so many 5-star reviews for yourself!

Categories
Trail Breaker History

Trail Breaker’s Founding Principles: Trust and be Trusted

Susan Butcher & Alaskan Husky Pup

Trust is Where The Journey Starts

Susan Butcher, Trail Breaker Kennel’s founder, and four-time Iditarod champion accredited her groundbreaking career in the sport of dog mushing to her deep connection with her Alaskan husky teammates. Susan raised all of the dogs she raced with from the time they were puppies. She believed that bonding with her teammates early in their lives created a unique relationship that would guarantee safety and success out on the trail.

 

 

How Did Susan Butcher Bond With and Train Her Alaskan Huskies?

During the first week of her dogs’ lives, before their eyes even opened, Susan would pick each puppy up and blow across their nose so they could grow accustomed to her scent. As the puppies grew, she would take them for walks in the woods and encourage them to overcome different obstacles. These exploratory hikes would build their confidence in her and one another. It would also give them self-confidence. The dedication and time that Susan invested in her dogs paid off. The result was a joyful bond between Susan and her dogs that led to four Iditarod victories.

Susan At Finishers Banquet With Granite And Tolstoy In Flowers After Winning Race 1988

Trust and Be Trusted

In a 1989 interview, Susan Butcher said, “We are just trying to teach them to respect us and trust us, and vice versa. I have to trust my life in their hands all the time, and they should learn to trust me with their life. And then when you are out there racing, that trust is what is going to make you able to win.”

Susan’s belief in “trust and be trusted” is the founding principle of Trail Breaker Kennel. It’s something all of us at Trail Breaker Kennel stand by to this day. It’s also the foundation of the relationship between musher and husky.

In these uncertain times, it is more important than ever to trust your family, your neighbors, and your teammates here on earth. The more mutual trust and respect we have for all of our human and animal friends, the better off we all will be.

 

Visit our Mushers &  Huskies

We would love to see you at Trail Breaker Kennel on your next visit to Alaska. We are located in Fairbanks on the Chena River, only a couple of miles from Fairbanks International Airport.

Join us for a tour of our kennel or an Alaskan dog sled ride.