That’s the essence of the Maine dog sledding or “mushing” experience, a unique and thrilling winter adventure

Imagine bounding across the frozen expanse of a remote lake surrounded by mountain peaks clad in evergreens, holding tight to the sides of your dogsled as the team drives your sled forward through the deep snow on a fast run. That’s the essence of the Maine dog sledding or “mushing” experience, a unique and thrilling winter adventure in the heart of The Maine Highlands. Working alongside experienced mushers and Maine guides, you’ll learn how to mush a team of dogs from start to finish, from caring for the dogs and the equipment involved to harnessing and actual mushing.

Ease into the sport with a half-day guided trip and enjoy a hearty lunch cooked over an open campfire. Or try an overnight trip to a warm and comfortable tent camp deep in the woods, complete with woodstove, meals, and camping gear. Dog lovers and winter adventurers will absorb the dog sledding experience, the rich history and the lore, the beautiful dogs and their caring owners, and the magic of the snowy wilderness.

A number of outfitters in The Maine Highlands provide dog sledding packages that include daily dog sledding treks, comfortable lodging, hearty meals, winter clothing, and equipment beyond the basics, as well as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing equipment and trails. Reach out to the Chamber of Commerce in the area your visiting for a list of businesses. You may also got to the Visit Maine website for Dog Sledding.

A close cousin to dog sledding is the sport of skijoring, which you can also enjoy in the Maine Highlands. Minimal equipment is required – just a harness, an eager dog or horse, and a pair of Nordic skis.