Gold Rush Sled Dog Tours — Attraction in Juneau

We had a great time at this excursion. Booked through our cruise but was worth it even with the mark up because we did get back quite late in the day, close to when the ship was departing. We got a ride on a dog-pulled carriage, time to meet and pet our sled dogs, several historical explanations about the dogs and the Iditarod and then met the puppies. They were only 4 weeks old and were just precious. It was lovely to learn about the history of the sport and wonderful to cuddle with the puppies. Moreover, the camp is truly an interesting sight - I have never seen so many dogs in one place and they are kept in a mountain valley, so the whole thing feels unreal. I highly recommend this experience, but one thing to know is that there is a scenic drive up a mountain to get...

We did our tour as an excursion from a cruise. It was a short 15 minute ride up a paved and then dirt road up the mountain (yes there were curves and ledges and views). We had a brief overview in one room, signed waivers and then went to the dog team in groups of 8. The dogs were high energy and loud while waiting to go! Once they were able to leave they were in their element and much calmer. We took a 1.5 mile round trip journey while our informative guide Julie told us about mushing. On our return we visited several stations to learn more about mushing. At the end, our group of 8 was able to hold one pup and pass him around to visit with — so if your vision has you sitting on the ground while you are swarmed by mush pups be sure to change your...

This is a well organized tourist attraction. My kids loved the ride and petting the dogs. The employees are knowledgeable and professional. However, I asked what happens to the dogs when they retire and was told they “adopt them out.” I’m not sure how they can adopt out so many dogs when not working with a shelter. I was told they adopt them out through word of mouth. They breed dogs on the property (we saw a nursing mama dog and her puppies), and they currently report having well over 100 dogs on the property. I was told most of the dogs dont race. I’m not sure why they are breeding dogs in that case. The dogs appear to be well cared for. I just get concerned about what happens after they retire. I’d love to hear from a local animal shelter about...