1. Introduction to Skijoring in Alberta
Skijoring in Alberta is one of the most unique and fun adventures you’ll have in winter. What is skijoring, you ask? It’s a bit like dogsledding, but instead, you are on skis, and dogs pull you without a sled. This thrilling winter activity is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure lovers.
2. What is Skijoring?
Skijoring is an exhilarating winter sport that originated in Norway. It involves cross-country skiers being pulled by horses, tractors, or even snowmobiles. Over the years, this sport has evolved, allowing skiers to be pulled by various means. During our adventures in Alberta, we experienced being pulled by enthusiastic sled dogs while balancing on cross-country skis.
3. Skijoring in Alberta
We met with Russell Donald, the owner of Mad Dog and Englishman, Sled Dog Expeditions, at Spray Lake outside of Canmore. He and his dogs arrived in their moving kennels, ready for a thrilling run through the snow. The dogs were cozy inside, but once outside, their excitement was palpable.
4. How Skijoring Works
In contrast to traditional dogsledding, skijoring typically requires only two dogs to pull a skier. Many individuals can skijor with their own dogs, provided they are large enough and capable of pulling a human along.
This activity not only offers dogs a chance to exercise, but it also gets your adrenaline pumping as you ski behind them. All that is needed is a harness and cross-country skis to embark on this adventure.
While Dave and I aren’t experts in cross-country skiing—favoring downhill skiing instead—we decided to give it another shot. A few years back, we had tried cross-country skiing near Toronto and didn’t enjoy it much. However, standing on Spray Lake in Alberta, we were determined to overcome our reservations!
5. Brush Up On Your Cross-Country Skiing Skills
When Russell asked about our skiing abilities, we described ourselves as “intermediate at best.” Fortunately, he assured us that it was manageable. Although we lacked skill, our enthusiasm was undeniable.
- What if we crash when the dogs take off?
- Would we end up face-planting into the ice all day?
Russell attentively observed our skills and carefully selected dogs that matched our abilities, ensuring our experience would be safe and fun.
6. Choosing the Right Dog for Your Skill Level
Having the right dog for skijoring is crucial. A less skilled skier should pair with a more confident dog, ensuring a smoother experience. We were partnered with a lively group of dogs eager to support us through our shortcomings. Even when we fell, the dogs continued running, instinctively pulling us along.
Once our harnesses were settled and fastened, the dogs burst into action!
All nervousness vanished as we felt the exhilaration of gliding across the lake.
7. The Dogs Love Skijoring
The dogs sprinted at full speed as we skied behind them, resulting in some of the most enjoyable moments we’ve ever had on skis. Within minutes, both Dave and I found ourselves on the ground, laughing uncontrollably. Dave lost his balance first, and I wasn’t far behind.
The dogs, undeterred by obstacles, kept running, leading to a delightful chaos as they jumped over and around us while we scrambled to get up. It was absolutely hilarious!
8. The Thrill of Round Two
Just as we regained our footing and untangled ourselves, the dogs took off again. It was a matter of seconds before we were racing once more. My team of dogs attempted to pass Dave’s, and the light-hearted competition continued as we surged ahead, trying to outpace one another.
When you hear a dogsled owner proclaim that their dogs love to run, believe it. Sled dogs are born for speed, and their excitement is contagious!
9. The Joy of Skijoring
Skijoring guarantees a boost to your mood. The sheer joy and excitement of the dogs are infectious, ensuring that even the grumpiest participant will find happiness. Throughout our tour around the lake, we felt invigorated and thrilled.
The more we stumbled, the more laughter we shared, and eventually, we truly began to grasp the sport. The dogs’ happiness radiated as they ran longer and faster, while we reveled in the unique experience of being effortlessly pulled by sled dogs, reminiscent of waterskiing.
10. We Loved Every Minute!
A camera crew accompanied us, and they initially worried that we were having a miserable time due to our many spills. Imagine their surprise when we returned, grinning from ear to ear, urging, “You have to try this!” They did, and they found it just as enjoyable as we did!
If you find yourself in Alberta during the winter season, make sure to experience skijoring. If you’re an adventure seeker or simply looking for a fun outing, we are confident you’ll enjoy it!
11. Skijoring Alberta Contacts and Information
- For dogsled and skijoring tours in Alberta, visit Mad Dog and Englishmen Sled Dog Adventures
