Adventure
A rapidly growing activity and a must-do winter experience in the mountains, sled dogding is offered by various professionals throughout the winter season. In Avoriaz and its surroundings, you can (re)discover the joys of mushing and enjoy an outdoor adventure in some of the most beautiful landscapes.
From beginner rides in a sled to full immersion in driving a dog team, the activity can take several forms. As such, it caters to a diverse audience. The minimum age requirement is set by each professional, but generally, children from 6 years old are invited to discover the sled team experience. Additionally, some mushers are trained and equipped to safely welcome people with reduced mobility.
Snow conditions determine which sled dog rides are possible, so there is no fixed start or end date for the activity. However, it is traditionally practiced from mid-December to mid-April.
Whatever type of sled dog activity you choose, you will start by meeting your musher and the dogs that will pull you across the trails among snow-covered conifers. After giving the Siberian huskies and Greenland Eskimo dogs a friendly pat, you will take part in harnessing the dogs and actively participate in preparing your own sled.
Afterwards, the session depends on your chosen activity. During a first-time ride, you simply settle comfortably in the sled and enjoy the passing scenery while the musher guides the dogs. Relaxation guaranteed!
If you have opted for driving your own dog team, you will first receive instructions from your musher before taking the reins and exploring the snowy landscapes of Avoriaz. Usually, the team consists of three dogs: are you ready to guide them? If young children participate, they will be invited to sit in one of their parents’ sleds. Whether you are guided or actively driving the sled, you will experience unique and memorable sensations of gliding and fully enjoy the snowy scenery of the Avoriaz mountains.
Nestled in the heart of the mountains, Avoriaz offers an exceptional natural setting to experience sled dogding. To feel like a true musher and fully enjoy the moment, there is nothing better than a place with stunning landscapes. Your craving for wide open spaces will be satisfied in Avoriaz, and you’ll be transported the moment the huskies hit the trail.
Your musher is there to ensure your safety throughout the sled dog ride around Avoriaz. However, it is up to you to follow their instructions. To ensure the best experience, you should dress appropriately: this guarantees comfort during the activity. Make sure to wear warm, comfortable clothing designed for mountain sports. We also highly recommend bringing a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
If your sled dog activity lasts several hours, remember to stay hydrated to maintain optimal performance. Although mushers adapt the route to the participants’ level, learning to drive a dog team requires some physical effort. Be ready to walk alongside the sled on uphill or difficult sections to give the dogs a break. The physical effort is worth it for the magical sensations sled dogding provides.
Whether you seek tranquility or adrenaline, in a couple, with friends, or with family, sled dogding in Avoriaz is an activity not to be missed during your winter holidays.