Turning Heads Kennel Dogsledding Experience & Tour

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live out a day on the legendary Iditarod trail, this Turning Heads Kennel experience in Seward offers a close-up glimpse—and a chance to try mushing yourself. This tour combines education, adorable puppies, and an exhilarating sled ride in a way that’s accessible, fun, and surprisingly heartfelt.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to meet over 50 enthusiastic huskies, each eager to show off their mushing skills, and the genuine care that staff display for the dogs. Plus, the 75-minute excursion offers a perfect mix of hands-on interaction, scenic views, and a memorable ride—without the winter chill or the long hours typical of the actual race.

One consideration to keep in mind is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to drive yourself or arrange for a separate pickup. Also, while the experience is suitable for most travelers, those with mobility issues should check if the terrain or ride setup meets their needs.

This tour suits animal lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the world of sled dogs, especially if you’re not prepared for a winter sled trip but still want a taste of Alaska’s famous dog mushing culture.

This experience made our article of 15 Most Highly Rated Tours & Things To Do In Seward.

Key Points

• Authentic encounter with huskies: Meet and cuddle over 50 dogs and puppies, making it a beautifully personal experience.
• Educational value: Learn about the gear, the race, and the lives of mushers from knowledgeable guides.
• Scenic scenery: Enjoy views of wildlife, including eagles, and landscapes typical of Alaska’s wilderness.
• Summer and winter appeal: Experience a summer version of dog sledding in a safe, warm environment.
• Great value for money: At $95 per person, the combo of tour, interaction, and ride provides significant value.
• Positive reviews: Consistently rated a perfect 5.0, with glowing comments about guides and dogs.

What to Expect from the Tour

The Turning Heads Kennel experience begins at their location on Herman Leirer Road, where a friendly guide welcomes your small group (up to 18 travelers). This is a true working kennel, not just a tourist attraction—more than 50 huskies call this place home, many of which are involved in actual racing or training.

The first part of the experience involves an interactive kennel tour. You’ll get to see the dogs in their environment, learn about their roles in sled racing, and understand what equipment mushers use. Guides are praised for their knowledgeable and enthusiastic explanations—one reviewer described a guide as “excellent and very knowledgeable.”

Next, you’ll have the chance to play with puppies—a highlight for many. Petting and cuddling these adorable pups adds a personal touch that makes this experience more memorable. Several reviews mention how much they appreciated the staff’s love for their dogs, which shows in how well the animals are treated.

The Sled Ride: Summer Mushing

After the kennel visit, it’s time for the highlight: a 1.5-mile ride in a wheeled cart pulled by huskies. Although it’s not a winter snow ride, this training run offers a good sense of what dog mushing involves. You’ll enjoy views of the surrounding landscapes, and in the process, gain an appreciation for the power and enthusiasm of the dogs.

The ride is described as fun and educational, with stops along the way for water and rest—important for the dogs and a sign of the staff’s care. One reviewer noted that the dogs seem “excited” and “happy” when getting ready for a run, which is a good sign of ethical treatment.

The Guides and Staff

Reviews consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides. One said, “Jordan was an excellent and knowledgeable guide,” highlighting the importance of good storytelling and expertise in making the experience engaging. Guides also share personal stories about the dogs and racing, enriching the tour.

Many reviewers mentioned how the staff’s love for the dogs shines through, creating a warm atmosphere. This genuine care is vital when interacting with animals, especially puppies and working sled dogs.

Learning and Authenticity

What elevates this tour is its educational component. You won’t just be riding; you’ll learn about the gear, the training process, and the challenges of race conditions. For those interested in the Iditarod or just curious about sled dog life, this background adds depth.

Several comments noted how the information made them appreciate the strength and endurance required for racing. It’s a chance to see the human and canine teamwork that goes into the sport.

Value and Booking

At $95 per person, the tour provides a good deal considering the length and depth of the experience. A 75-minute experience that includes interaction, a kennel tour, and a sled ride is quite generous—especially when many reviews highlight the personalized attention and the quality of the dogs.

One important note from a review warns that pickup is not included—the experience is based at the kennel, and travelers should plan accordingly. The tour is booked well in advance—about 78 days on average—reflecting how popular it is among visitors.

Scenic and Wildlife Highlights

While the main focus is on the dogs, the scenery complements the experience. Expect to see local eagles’ nests and enjoy views of Alaska’s wilderness, which many find to be a peaceful and inspiring backdrop. Several reviews mention the beautiful landscapes that you pass during the ride.

Final Impressions and Who Will Love It

This kennel tour provides a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into the world of mushing—perfect for travelers eager to see behind the scenes of Alaska’s most iconic sport. The combination of interactive puppy cuddles, informative guides, and fun riding makes it a standout experience.

It’s especially suitable for families, animal lovers, and those who want a less cold and more accessible introduction to sled dogs. If you’re not a fan of cold weather or uncomfortable rides, this summer version offers an excellent alternative.

This tour isn’t just about watching dogs pull a cart; it’s about connecting with the animals, understanding their role in Alaska’s culture, and making memories you’ll talk about for years.

The Turning Heads Kennel Dogsledding Experience combines authenticity, education, and fun at a fair price point. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the hard work and intelligence of these incredible dogs, along with plenty of adorable puppy photos.

For those interested in learning about sled dog racing, or simply wanting a heartwarming encounter with Alaska’s canine athletes, this tour is a top choice. It balances interactive fun with informative storytelling, making it ideal for families, dog lovers, or curious travelers who want a meaningful experience without the winter cold.

If you’re looking for a unique, friendly, and memorable outdoor activity in Seward, this kennel tour offers genuine insight and a lot of smiles—plus a good dose of Alaskan charm.

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, the tour starts at the kennel location, and there’s no shuttle service included. Travelers should plan to drive or arrange their own transportation.

How long does the experience last?
The total experience runs about 1 hour 15 minutes, including the kennel visit, interaction with dogs, and the sled ride.

Can children participate?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Check with the provider if you have specific age concerns.

Are the dogs well cared for?
Reviews consistently mention staff’s love and care for the dogs, and the dogs appear energetic and happy during the ride.

What should I wear?
While the tour is in summer, it’s still wise to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. The ride is in a wheeled cart, so expect to be outdoors most of the time.

Is this experience suitable for people with mobility issues?
The reviews don’t specify restrictions, but if you have mobility concerns, it’s best to inquire directly, as the terrain may vary.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is popular—book about 78 days ahead on average—to secure your spot, especially in peak season.

Whether you’re a dog enthusiast or simply want to enjoy a unique Alaskan adventure, the Turning Heads Kennel Dogsledding Experience offers a memorable and authentic taste of the state’s rich mushing culture.