Husky Sledding
An unforgettable family adventure in the heart of the Alps
Nestled in a setting of snow-capped mountains, the activity of husky sledding wins over young and old alike with its magic, authenticity and complete change of scenery. Halfway between Nordic tradition and outdoor leisure, this unique experience transports you out of time, to the rhythm of the powerful and synchronised steps of magnificent Greenland dogs, led by passionate mushers.
An ancestral tradition from the far North
The history of sled dogs goes back several millennia. Originating from Siberia and then widely used by the Inuit peoples and indigenous tribes of the Arctic, these dogs were at once life companions, hunting partners and indispensable means of transport on snow and ice. Among the iconic breeds are the Siberian Husky, the Alaskan Malamute and the Greenland dog, rugged, enduring and built for extreme cold.
If sleds once helped people survive in hostile environments, today they have become true vehicles of emotion. In the French alpine resorts, such as Les Trois Vallées or Paradiski, they offer a wild, poetic interlude, as close as can be to nature.
The husky sledding experience
Guided by a musher – the name given to the sled driver – you embark on an extraordinary ride in the Alps. Bundled in thick blankets, snug in a traditional wooden sled, you let yourself glide along the forest trails or snowy plateaus, pulled by a pack of powerful, lively dogs.
Contrary to what you might think, this isn’t a wild race through the snow. The pace is set for a contemplative leisure ride, allowing you to take in the landscapes, feel the dogs’ energy and chat with the musher about their craft, dogs and often unusual daily life. A true human and animal encounter.
To learn more, find the interview with Mathias, our musher in La Plagne, who invites you to discover the summer activity of husky hike, with the same dogs that pull the sleds in winter.
Conditions to enjoy the activity
This winter mountain activity is designed to remain accessible to all, in well-defined conditions to ensure the comfort and safety of everyone — dogs included.
A sled can accommodate:
- 2 adults
- 1 adult and 1 to 2 children under 10
- 1 adult and 1 to 3 children under 5
The total weight per sled is limited to 180 kg maximum. This preserves the dogs’ welfare while ensuring good gliding and optimal safety. The activity is open to young children, provided they are well wrapped up and supervised.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during school holidays, as places are limited by the number of sleds available each day. We organise the booking of your activities, including husky sledding, to make your Pointe de Sel chalet stay as easy as possible.
An anecdote: when the dogs leave without the sled!
A musher from La Plagne tells us with humour an adventure that became legendary in his team:
“One morning, as I was finishing preparing the rig for a family ride, I wanted to quickly adjust a sled fastening. The time it took me to turn around to grab a strap… the dogs, overexcited at the thought of leaving, set off in a sudden start — without the sled, which wasn’t yet properly hitched! Result: eight dogs racing at full speed through the snow, harnesses dangling, and me chasing behind shouting… A scene worthy of a cartoon! Fortunately, they stopped a few dozen metres later, a little disoriented. Since then, I always check every fastening twice, even when the children are pressing me to leave!”
This little misadventure, harmless, reminds us how lively and enthusiastic these dogs are… and always ready to run at full speed!
Where to enjoy the activity in the Trois Vallées and Paradiski?
❄️ In Les Trois Vallées:
- Courchevel: on the high plateaus or in the forest, you can enjoy a husky sled ride in Courchevel with husky or Greenland dog teams.
- Les Menuires & Val Thorens: a ride with stunning views of the peaks, ideal for children thanks to gentler terrain.
❄️ In Paradiski:
- La Plagne: probably one of the best spots to discover the activity, with a wonderful view of Mont Blanc. Many mushers work there with packs of Greenland dogs, renowned for their strength and endurance.
- Peisey-Vallandry: at the gates of the Vanoise National Park, the ride is breathtakingly beautiful, between larch forests and pristine plateaus.
- Les Arcs: option of fun or sporty outings, sometimes even at night under the stars.
These resorts have suitable infrastructure, marked routes and experienced mushers, often breeders and mountain enthusiasts.
Why choose this family activity during a chalet stay?
A perfect complement to chalet life
What better than, after a morning on the slopes or a cocooning day by the fire, to treat yourself to a Nordic adventure? The experience contrasts with skiing and adds a beautiful dimension to your holiday.
A timeless moment
Enjoying a husky sled ride means treating yourself to a magical pause from the daily bustle. Surrounded by nature, with the muffled sound of paws in the snow, you reconnect with the essentials.
An activity suited to young and old
No need to be sporty: comfortably settled, children live a thrilling adventure effortlessly. Adults find themselves surprised by the serenity of the moment.
A strong bond with the animals
Greenland dogs are loyal, expressive and intelligent companions. Children love watching them, petting them after the ride and discovering their essential role in the team.
A cultural and human discovery
Mushers often share their daily life, their passion and the history of their dogs. It’s a true immersion in a little-known world that leaves a lasting impression.
And how about booking your chalet for your mountain holiday and taking the chance to discover the husky sledding activity?
