Seavey’s IdidaRide Sled Dog Tour Review for Families
Visiting Seavey’s IdidaRide Sled Dog Tours was the kind of family adventure we didn’t know we needed.
Why We Chose a Dog Sledding Tour in Seward
You Know It’s a Good Trip When Everyone’s Smiling
We’ve done a lot of cool things on family vacations—but this? This was one of those rare experiences that felt magical from the moment we arrived. If you’re planning a summer trip to Alaska with kids and looking for something a little different, Seavey’s IdidaRide Dog Sled Tours in Seward should be high on your list of family-friendly things to do in Seward Alaska.
(Note: Yes, I know it’s spelled Iditarod. The tour is specifically the IdidaRide tour. It’s kinda punny. Read the tour name as a sentence. You will chuckle. ha!)
And nope, you don’t need snow for this one. That was our first question too.
Who Are the Seaveys? Meet Alaska’s Most Famous Sled Dog Family
Real Mushers. Cute Dogs. Real Stories.
The Seavey family isn’t just good at what they do—they’ve built a legacy around dog sledding in Alaska. With multiple Iditarod wins under their belt, decades of experience, and a deep love for their sled dogs, everything about the tour feels authentic and heartfelt.
This isn’t a commercialized dog sled demo. It’s an invitation into the world of the Iditarod—led by people who’ve lived it.
What It’s Like to Dog Sled in Summer (Hint: Still Epic!)
Summer Sledding: It’s Wild (and Kinda Hilarious)
Do you wonder how dog sledding works when there’s no snow? Instead of sleds, the dogs pull rugged wheeled carts that mimic the feel of a real race. You still get that exhilarating ride through the forest—just without the winter gear.
Also, the dogs go wild when it’s time to run. They’re bouncing and barking, clearly thrilled to hit the trail. The ride is fast, a little bumpy, and full of laughter (especially if your kid gets the front seat, like mine did). It’s one of the most unique Alaska summer excursions we’ve ever done.
And don’t worry about the dogs getting too tired. Because according to the Seavey’s, it’s super important for the dogs to ‘mush’ during the summer to keep in shape, build teamwork with the other dogs, and practice mushing during the off season. This is literally their version of Spring training!
Related: Check out this epic excursion where you can hike on the Matanuska Glacier!
Puppy Time and Dog Snuggles: The Unexpected Highlight
After the Ride: Dogs, Belly Rubs, and Puppy Snuggles
Once the dogs finish their run, it’s cuddle time. These aren’t shy pups—they love people. We got to pet them, thank them, and get a little slobbery in the process. No one minded.
And then came the puppies.
I loved that on this tour you are not only allowed to pet the puppies. Instead, you are highly encouraged to pet the puppies. It’s really important for Iditarod sled dogs to handle a wide variety of experiences and be around a wide variety of people, the dogs are socialized almost from the moment they are born.
Yeah– sign me up for newborn puppy cuddling please!
I don’t care how old you are—holding a squirmy little sled dog puppy is the kind of thing that just fills your heart. Depending on the season, you might get to snuggle a sleepy newborn or play with a hyper little furball who can barely stay still. Either way, it’s a moment you won’t forget. It’s easily one of the best parts of the entire Seavey’s Iditarod tour experience.
Behind the Scenes of the Iditarod: Gear, Stories & Grit
A Peek Behind the Race
Before the tour ends, you’ll head inside for a glimpse into what it takes to run the Iditarod. One of the Seaveys walks you through their gear, shares personal stories from the trail, and even lets you try on a real musher’s coat. (Spoiler: it’s basically a wearable sleeping bag.)
This part gives you a whole new respect for the grit, strategy, and heart that go into long-distance racing with a dog team.
Related: The 15 Must-Stop Places on the road from Anchorage to Valdez!
How to Book Your Own Seavey’s Iditarod Dog Sled Tour
Plan Ahead—Especially if You Want Puppy Time!
When you’re putting together your itinerary of what to do in Seward Alaska with kids, here’s what to know:
- Cost: $109 per adult, $54.50 per child (plus tips)
- Tour Length: About 90 minutes
- Book Early: Especially in summer and during peak puppy season—this is one of the most popular Seward dog tours
- Other Options: Want to splurge? Look into their glacier tour or even helicopter dog sledding—an unforgettable adventure for older kids and teens
Seavey’s offers one of the best Alaska tours with kids, and availability goes fast—so don’t wait too long to grab your spot!
Related: The Ultimate Guide to 3 Days in Wrangell- St. Elias National Park
Final Thoughts: Is Seavey’s Dog Sledding Worth It for Families?
Worth Every Penny
Short Answer? 100% Yes.
We didn’t expect this tour to become the core memory of our Alaska vacation—but it did. From the adrenaline rush of the ride to the quiet joy of snuggling a puppy, it had everything: fun, connection, learning, and laughter.
If you’re heading to Seward and looking for a truly memorable dog sled tour in Alaska, don’t miss Seavey’s. This is more than an excursion—it’s a story your family will tell again and again.
Just trust me on this one.
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