Snow Buddy Dog Sled Tours
Snow Buddy Dog Sled Tours
Snow Buddy Dog Sled Tours
5
About
Snow Buddy Dog Sled Tours is a family owned and operated dog sled adventure business located outside Oak Creek, CO - 45 minutes from Steamboat Springs and 1 hour 15 minutes from the Vail Valley . We treat every guest like a member of our family! Our adventures are an intimate, personalized and completely hands-on experience from start to finish. If you want to get away from the busy slopes for a day and experience something truly unique, Snow Buddy Dog Sled Tours is the operation for you! We operate on gorgeous Dunckley Pass in the Routt National Forest and our scenery can't be beat. Colorado's # 1 choice in dog sled adventures!
Suggested duration
More than 3 hours
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5.0
726 reviews
Excellent
726
Very good
1
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0
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710todd
1 contribution
Mar 2022
Our adventure was totally worthwhile! Well-organized and delivered with staff who were knowledgeable, experienced, friendly, and fun. Very much appreciated the attention to detail and safety briefing before the outing. This was more than a "ride on a dogsled" and the orientation was well done. After a bit of training, being allowed to mush our own team was something we will never forget. Our guide (Fiona) physically worked HARD to ensure everything went well, and her coaching and instruction to us proved that she was a master at her craft. Ben, Hannah, Dan, and Sarah worked together to deliver a memorable event that they also captured for us in photographs. The fee was quite modest for a full immersion adventure such as this, and we were happy to be generous with our gratuity which our guides earned in spades! The dogs have such heart and drive it is amazing to behold. Book a date and enjoy the wonderful adventure!
Written March 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
kristenlmccoley
Little Rock, AR1 contribution
Feb 2022 • Family
I was thoroughly impressed with my entire visit with Snow Buddy Dog Sled Tours! I was already excited prior, but the trip itself was better than imagined! Let’s break it down. You can choose to get a shuttle to pick you up-100% worth it. The place was hard to get to! Shuttle arrived on time and was very comfortable. When we arrived at the camp the entire staff made you feel like you’d been friends your whole life. They went through everything very detailed so you knew exactly what to do. I brought my 6 year old stepson with me. I had initially wanted a full guided tour where I wouldn’t drive the sled at all, but they gave me a guide on the back and let me drive and I’m 1000% glad they did! What a rush! The dogs were absolutely amazing and did so great the scenery was breathtaking. The camp at the top was perfect with hot chocolate and cookies fresh off the stove.
All in all it was one of the best excursions I’ve been on!
Also highly recommend purchasing the photos! They have someone taking professional photos of you the entire time and I loved the result!
Oh and if all of that doesn’t seal the deal for you- the dogs are all rescues!! And they even get adopted out later after they acclimate to humans! HEART MELT! We loved every single one of our doggies!
All in all it was one of the best excursions I’ve been on!
Also highly recommend purchasing the photos! They have someone taking professional photos of you the entire time and I loved the result!
Oh and if all of that doesn’t seal the deal for you- the dogs are all rescues!! And they even get adopted out later after they acclimate to humans! HEART MELT! We loved every single one of our doggies!
Written February 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
JMH1954
Fort Collins, CO8 contributions
Dec 2021 • Couples
A friend shared photos from her trip earlier in 2021, which inspired us to make a booking as a Christmas surprise for our adult daughter. We stayed in Steamboat Springs overnight and drive down for the next afternoon’s run—allow 50 minutes if roads are snowy. Detailed directions were emailed to us in advance.
We had a blast. We all dressed like doughboys out skiing and were comfortable in the 20F/overcast conditions. Rubber-soled boots preferred, but Snow Buddies has extras if you need.
Orientation was thorough and we took off as though we’d always been sledding! Daughter and Mom drove, Dad rode passenger. Guides were attentive and cheered us on; dogs were delightfully energetic and affectionate too. Hot drinks and warm cookies at the halfway point were a much appreciated touch.
We definitely recommend the Snow Buddies experience.
We had a blast. We all dressed like doughboys out skiing and were comfortable in the 20F/overcast conditions. Rubber-soled boots preferred, but Snow Buddies has extras if you need.
Orientation was thorough and we took off as though we’d always been sledding! Daughter and Mom drove, Dad rode passenger. Guides were attentive and cheered us on; dogs were delightfully energetic and affectionate too. Hot drinks and warm cookies at the halfway point were a much appreciated touch.
We definitely recommend the Snow Buddies experience.
Written December 31, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Tour535444
3 contributions
Jan 2023 • Couples
Our half day Learn to Mush dog sled adventure was both memorable and very enjoyable. The Snow Buddy Dog Sled tour guide company is top-notch. The staff is friendly, patient and very helpful. The dogs are very well cared for and it was clear that the dogs had as much fun as we did, and all of the sled and equipment was well maintained. I would highly recommend booking a dog sled trip with Snow Buddy Dog Sled Tours.
Written January 18, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
kianna s
1 contribution
Feb 2023
Could not have had a better evening. Huge thanks to Snow Buddy Dog Sled Tours for this amazing evening and going to all the extra effort for a beautiful evening tour.
We were planning to drive out however someone hit our car the day prior. So Sarah arranged for us to be picked up in SteamBoat. We got to help hook up the dogs, drive the team, enjoy a catered meal of lasagna, soup, salad, and tiramisu in a large tent in the back country with the sled dogs joining us at the table. Sarah went through every effort to set things up perfectly for us. I had custom details I wanted to be part of the dinner and she emailed with me back and forth until every detail was was perfect. The whole team could not have been more kind.
We then drove the dogs out in darkness to an opening in the woods to see the most beautiful stars you could imagine. Our guide informed me I was likely the only person driving a dog sled in the entire lower 48 as we navigated the woods in the dark. A pretty amazing feeling.
I grew up knowing a bit about the dog sled world 20 years ago. Some aspects of what I saw back then weren't great. Poorly socialized dogs who were not always treated the best. I am also a licensed vet tech so I know first hand that life can be hard for working animals in the wrong hands...I was so impressed by how Sarah and her team cared for their dogs. It is a gem to find a place that treats their working animals as part of the family with no aspect of care and compassion overlooked. This is an ideal place for ethical animal tours that you can feel completely at ease enjoying knowing full well these dogs love their job and their family.
So thank you again Sarah, Emily, and Ben for this amazing night we will never forget.
We were planning to drive out however someone hit our car the day prior. So Sarah arranged for us to be picked up in SteamBoat. We got to help hook up the dogs, drive the team, enjoy a catered meal of lasagna, soup, salad, and tiramisu in a large tent in the back country with the sled dogs joining us at the table. Sarah went through every effort to set things up perfectly for us. I had custom details I wanted to be part of the dinner and she emailed with me back and forth until every detail was was perfect. The whole team could not have been more kind.
We then drove the dogs out in darkness to an opening in the woods to see the most beautiful stars you could imagine. Our guide informed me I was likely the only person driving a dog sled in the entire lower 48 as we navigated the woods in the dark. A pretty amazing feeling.
I grew up knowing a bit about the dog sled world 20 years ago. Some aspects of what I saw back then weren't great. Poorly socialized dogs who were not always treated the best. I am also a licensed vet tech so I know first hand that life can be hard for working animals in the wrong hands...I was so impressed by how Sarah and her team cared for their dogs. It is a gem to find a place that treats their working animals as part of the family with no aspect of care and compassion overlooked. This is an ideal place for ethical animal tours that you can feel completely at ease enjoying knowing full well these dogs love their job and their family.
So thank you again Sarah, Emily, and Ben for this amazing night we will never forget.
Written February 13, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
sky9092
New York City, NY1 contribution
Mar 2023 • Couples
What an amazing day! Exploring the Colorado landscape with the dogs is an unforgettable experience.
Me and my partner have done dogsledding a few times before (outside the US), but this place really blew us away. Sarah and Dan and the whole team are so welcoming and fun, it feels like going sledding with a big family. You can really tell they all have a passion and love of what they do.
The dogs were amazing; so well trained and kind, and it was so much fun getting to know each dog’s quirks and learn about the their background. Make sure to check out the dog profiles on their website, so adorable!
It feels so great to support a business that takes care of these dogs like a big family, you can tell they couldn’t be happier!
We drove down from Steamboat, which took about 45 minutes with solid snow coverage. The directions were great, a bit slippery the last 20 min as expected but totally manageable with AWD.
Of all the outdoors activities I’ve done, this is my favorite, we can’t wait come back!
Me and my partner have done dogsledding a few times before (outside the US), but this place really blew us away. Sarah and Dan and the whole team are so welcoming and fun, it feels like going sledding with a big family. You can really tell they all have a passion and love of what they do.
The dogs were amazing; so well trained and kind, and it was so much fun getting to know each dog’s quirks and learn about the their background. Make sure to check out the dog profiles on their website, so adorable!
It feels so great to support a business that takes care of these dogs like a big family, you can tell they couldn’t be happier!
We drove down from Steamboat, which took about 45 minutes with solid snow coverage. The directions were great, a bit slippery the last 20 min as expected but totally manageable with AWD.
Of all the outdoors activities I’ve done, this is my favorite, we can’t wait come back!
Written March 20, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Barb C
Omaha, NE1 contribution
Jan 2022
From the start of the day until the end of the day everything was perfect. Emily and Ben, who drove the shuttle were awesome. It was winter driving conditions and we all felt very safe. Sarah, the owner of the company gave an outstanding demonstration on to how to operate the dog sleds. Along the trail our guides, Ben and Fionna were in contact with us the whole way. They were very supportive and helpful. Dan, the other owner provided us with hot chocolate and home made chocolate chip cookies half way through the trip. It is quite evident safety and the dogs are a high priority as well as comfort of the guests. All the staff work together to provide an awesome experience. I highly recommend this company without reservation.
Written January 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
bridgettesrb
Santa Rosa Beach, FL1 contribution
Feb 2022 • Family
Our family enjoyed our Dog Sledding tour with Snow Buddy Sled Tours! Everyone went out of their way to make it a memorable experience for our three grandchildren. Sarah was so helpful and communicated with us to make sure we knew what to expect. We highly recommend Snow Buddy Dog Sled Tours! The Johnson’s
Written February 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Chris S
San Diego, CA1 contribution
Jan 2020 • Family
Put this on your must do list. Sarah and her team were so welcoming that from the minute we arrived we knew they cared. Her story is amazing and its so awesome that they are giving these amazing animals not only a home but new lease on life. On top of that there really is not other experience then standing behind a team and having them hike you into the beauty of the Routt forest. Top if off with some hot chocolate and home made cookies and it really doesn't get much better. We had our two young girls (5 and 8) whom loved the dogs and continue to talk about how they got to drive the sled. If you are a dog lover its a must and for anyone wanting a unique adventure worth the cost (which I think is very fair). Get the pictures they are totally worth it. The morning was cold so prepare.
Note - We decided to drive ourselves (they do offer shuttle service) but if you don't know how to drive in the winter/mountains I'd recommend using their service.
Note - We decided to drive ourselves (they do offer shuttle service) but if you don't know how to drive in the winter/mountains I'd recommend using their service.
Written February 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Talia B
2 contributions
Mar 2021
BEYOND incredible experience! This excursion was a surprise gift from my husband for our 2nd wedding anniversary, and I could not have been more thrilled when I arrived! There is not one negative thing to say about this company, all the guides were so helpful and informative (our guide Lance was great), the dogs were amazingly friendly, and the overall experience was everything you would hope it to be. My husband did a lot of research into which dog sledding companies would be the best in the country, and Snow Buddy really seemed to treat their dogs with outstanding care. You can tell they really love what they do. Also, some companies do not let you actually mush the sled, but this company trains you how to do it and you are allowed to mush the entire time! It was a perfect snowy day when we went which made it feel like we were in Alaska mushing our dog sled team! We both LOVE dogs, and they really gave us enough time to get to know each dog on our team (their personalities, names, work ethic, etc) so by the end we felt like that had been our own dog sled team we had worked with for years. Snow Buddy allowed us to have this incredible once in a life time experience that we will NEVER forget! I think we will just have to go back next year! Also shoutout to our favorite little pup, Rooney (she was the sweetest dog ever)!!!
Written March 31, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you so much for your kind words here and Rooney especially appreciates them :)! We can't wait to see you again when you are back in town. Sending lots of love and husky hugs from all your Snow Buddies here in CO!
XO Sarah P
Written April 3, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Gunhild C
Belmont, MA
I would like to know if you can accommodate a family of 13 (9 adults and 4 children aged 7 - 12)
Sarah P
Phippsburg, CO10 contributions
Hi there
Unfortunately your group would be too large for us to accommodate all at one time slot.
Thank you so much for your interest in our program and we will hope to catch you next time with a smaller number of folks :)
Sarah and the Snow Buddies
Annemarie F
Hampstead, NC
Is April to late in the season?
Wayne S
Wilmington, DE21 contributions
It all depends on the weather. If there’s still snow and it’s it’s cold, they will be running. They are great folks, so give them a call.
bucksandbows99
Kansas City, KS
Would y’all be open around November 11-20 ish?
Sarah P
Phippsburg, CO10 contributions
Hi there!
It will depend on snow levels. The last two years we haven’t been able to swing that early start date. The four years prior we opened around the 18th. Let’s stay in touch!
And keep snow dancing!
All the Snow Buddies
Will M
Nashville, Tennessee, United States71 contributions
I have three 20 month old kids weighing from 25-30 pounds. Would we be able to go sledding with you? Also, how long is the drive from Vail in the winter? Thank You!
Sarah P
Phippsburg, CO10 contributions
Hi Will
We would love to accommodate you. We are about an hour and twenty minutes from Vail. It's a scenic drive on mostly state highway.
Call anytime (970) 291-1114
Thanks so much
Sarah and the Snow Buddies
What age of children do you recommend? We have a 2 year old.
Lara T
Chicago, IL1 contribution
I asked about my nephew, who is three. They said that the youngest they have had is 1 and the oldest person was 97. You could totally hold your two-year-old in the sled and he/she would have the best time.
Snow Buddy Dog Sled Tours (Steamboat Springs) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Snow Buddy Dog Sled Tours
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- (9.09 mi) The Lodges of Oak Creek
- (7.15 mi) Buford Lodge
- (9.67 mi) Travelodge by Wyndham Yampa
- (8.05 mi) Black Dog Inn
- (9.75 mi) House - 3 BR - 2 BA - Sleeps 8
- Restaurants near Snow Buddy Dog Sled Tours:
- (9.62 mi) Antlers Cafe and Bar
- (9.13 mi) Kate's Cafe
- (8.98 mi) Circle R Restaurant
- (9.14 mi) Lupita's Cantina
- (9.04 mi) The Colorado Bar & Grill