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Husky Dog Sledding La Plagne: Adventures Beyond The Slopes
Planning a family ski holiday in La Plagne and looking for something special beyond the slopes? This weekend, we tried husky dog sledding, and it turned into one of those unforgettable moments that make a trip truly magical.
With three generations of our family involved, it was the perfect mix of adventure and inclusivity. My mum and my son – grandma and grandson – rode together in the sled, a brilliant option for one skier and one non-skier. My husband and our son skied up to the meeting point while I walked with my mum and dad, carrying our baby in the carrier. Watching the huskies bound through the snow and seeing the pure excitement on my son’s face – and Grandma's face! – as they set off was a memory I’ll treasure forever.
If you're looking for a unique family-friendly experience in La Plagne, here's everything you need to know about husky dog sledding and why it’s such a fantastic addition to your winter holiday.
What is husky dog sledding?
There are a wealth of non-skiing activities to try in La Plagne! Now, imagine being whisked away through a winter wonderland, surrounded by stunning alpine scenery, all while being pulled along by a team of 7 to 10 energetic husky dogs. That's the essence of husky dog sledding! It's a thrilling and unique experience that allows you to connect with nature and these incredible animals in a way like no other.
Traditionally used for transportation in Arctic regions, dog sledding has become a popular activity in the French Alps, offering families a chance to experience the magic of gliding through snowy forests and open trails. In La Plagne, you can either sit back and enjoy the ride or, in some cases, try mushing – learning to guide the sled yourself under the watchful eye of an experienced musher.
It’s a fantastic option for non-skiers who want to experience the mountains in a different way, and it’s also great for kids, making it a perfect addition to a family ski holiday. Whether you’re watching the huskies eagerly prepare for the ride or feeling the rush as they take off across the snow, husky sledding is an unforgettable way to explore La Plagne.
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Is husky dog sledding ethical?
You might be wondering if husky dog sledding is ethical. It’s natural to wonder, especially if you’re an animal lover. The good news is that, when done responsibly, husky sledding can be an ethical and positive experience for the dogs involved.
Huskies are working dogs bred to pull sleds in cold environments. They thrive on exercise and love to run – it’s what they were born to do. In well-managed sledding operations, the dogs are treated as valued members of the team, receiving proper care, rest, and veterinary attention. They are rotated to prevent overworking, given plenty of downtime, and live in environments suited to their needs.
However, not all dog sledding providers operate to high welfare standards. If you want to ensure an ethical experience, look for providers who:
- Prioritise the health and happiness of their dogs.
- Provide spacious living conditions and regular veterinary care.
- Rotate their teams to prevent exhaustion.
- Allow the dogs to rest and socialise when they’re not working.
- Have mushers who clearly respect and care for their dogs.
In La Plagne, husky sledding is run by experienced professionals who are passionate about their dogs. When we did this activity, it was clear that the huskies were excited and eager to run, tails wagging and barking with anticipation before setting off. Seeing them so well cared for and enthusiastic about their work was really reassuring.
Hors Trace Adventure talks very openly about how they care for their dogs, from explaining why they work with these specific breeds to making it clear that they keep and look after their dogs if they are injured, retired, or older. They also adapt and change the sledding activity according to the weather and conditions.
If you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the dogs’ welfare before booking. A responsible operator will be happy to explain how they care for their huskies and ensure that they are treated with the respect they deserve.
It's also one of the more peaceful, sustainable ways of exploring the La Plagne mountains.
Why is dog sledding in La Plagne a good family ski holiday activity?
Dog sledding in La Plagne is a fantastic addition to a family ski holiday because it’s an activity that everyone can enjoy—regardless of age, skiing ability, or fitness level. If you’re looking for a memorable experience that brings the whole family together, this is it.
One of the biggest advantages is that children as young as two years old can take part, making it one of the few winter activities suitable for toddlers. Whether you’re skiing every day or just dipping into winter sports, dog sledding offers a unique way to experience the mountains without needing ski gear or lessons. It’s also a brilliant option for multi-generational trips—our own experience proved that, with my mum and son sharing the sled while the rest of us skied or hiked up to watch!
That said, it’s important to be aware that dog sledding isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals or those with back problems, as the ride can be bumpy at times. But for most families, it’s an unforgettable way to explore La Plagne’s snowy landscapes while creating magical memories together.
Where is dog sledding available in La Plagne?
In La Plagne, you have a few options to experience the thrill of dog sledding:
Dou Du Praz with Hors Trace Aventure
- Available every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday
- The whole activity is about 45 minutes with the ride lasting 30 minutes
- Price for 1 or 2 people: 170€
- Price for 2 adults + 1 child (under 12): 215€
- Price for 2 adults + 2 children (under 5): 250€
- Groups can be accommodated upon request
How to Get to the Dog Sledding at Dou du Praz
We recently did the Husky dog sledding with Hors Trace Adventure at Dou du Praz. A beautiful plateau above Plagne Villages with stunning panoramic views. Whether you’re skiing or walking, there are a couple of ways to reach the meeting point, and it’s worth planning your journey so you arrive in good time for your ride.
Walking to Dou du Praz (Pedestrians)
If you’re walking with younger children or elderly family members, just be aware the paths are snowy and can be icy. So good winter boots and warm layers are essential.
From Plagne Centre: If you’re on foot, the easiest starting point is the car park at the top of Plagne Villages. We drove here, and this is where we set off, with me carrying the baby in a carrier and my parents walking alongside. If you're taking public transport, use the Telebus bubble lift from Plagne Centre to Plagne Soleil and then take the free shuttle bus to the Dou du Praz stop to start walking.
The main pedestrian-friendly route is the groomed walking track. This is the most straightforward option and is often used by snowshoers and walkers. It’s a gentle uphill walk that winds up towards Dou du Praz.
The day we did this, there had been heavy snowfall the night before, which slowed us down a little, but under normal conditions, I’d allow around 30 minutes to walk up comfortably.
From Bellecote: You can walk/hike up from Bellecote, taking the Dou du Praz walking path, which starts just behind the Colossus chairlift. It takes about 30/45 minutes and is all uphill. For an easier arrival, take the shuttle bus to Plagne Centre and follow those instructions.
Skiing to Dou du Praz
If you’re skiing, the quickest way to reach the husky sledding area is via the Dou du Praz drag lift, the only ski lift that gets you up there. My husband and son took this route, skiing up together while we walked.
- From Plagne Villages or Plagne Soleil, simply ski down to the bottom of the Dou du Praz drag lift and take it up to the meeting point.
- From Plagne Centre, you’ll need to take the Bergerie chairlift first, then ski down the Ecartee into Plagne Soleil, where you can pick up the Dou du Praz drag lift.
- Fromm Bellecote, take the Colossus chairlift and then head down the Ecartee piste as above.
If you’re confident on skis, this is the quicker option, taking around 20 minutes in total.
Timing Your Journey
We had a 10:15 AM ride booked and set off from the Plagne Villages car park at 9:55 AM – a little later than I’d planned due to the fresh snowfall. If you’re walking, I’d allow at least 30 minutes to get there comfortably, especially if you have little ones or are carrying a baby like I was.
Whether you’re skiing or walking, Dou du Praz is a stunning spot, and the journey up is part of the adventure. Just make sure to give yourself enough time to soak up the views before setting off on your husky sledding experience!
Our Husky Dog Sledding Experience
This wasn’t our first time experiencing husky dog sledding as a family – my son had already done it a few times with school – but for my mum, it was a completely new adventure. She had never tried it before, and it was such a special way for her to take in the alpine scenery and experience the mountains in a way that didn’t require skiing. Sharing the moment with my son made it even more memorable for her.
We had booked the morning slot, and it turned out to be the perfect time. After a night of heavy snowfall, there was 15cm of fresh snow, and they were only the third or fourth sled to set off that morning. The huskies were full of energy and excitement, and my mum loved watching them carve out fresh tracks in the untouched snow. It was breathtaking to see the snowy landscape glistening in the morning light, with nothing but the sound of paws crunching through the powder.
Once the ride was over, there was a chance to interact with the dogs, which was a lovely way to round off the experience. The musher was very specific about which dogs were happy to be petted and which ones preferred to be left alone, which we really appreciated. It was clear that the dogs were well cared for and respected.
For my mum, this wasn’t just about the thrill of the sled ride – it was about experiencing the magic of the mountains in a way she hadn’t before. And for my son, it was another chance to do something he absolutely loves, but this time with his grandma right beside him. Watching them enjoy it together was one of those moments that makes a family ski holiday truly special.
Capture the Moment with JnJ Photos
One other great thing about booking a husky dog sledding experience with Hors Trace Adventure at Dou du Praz is that there’s a professional photographer on-site to capture the magic. JnJ Photos is there to take stunning action shots of your ride so you can relive the experience long after it’s over.
With the huskies racing through the snow and the incredible backdrop of the mountains behind you, it’s the kind of adventure you’ll want to remember. The photos are high quality and beautifully timed, making them a fantastic keepsake of your sledding experience. After your ride, you’ll have the chance to view and purchase the images if you’d like.
It’s a great way to get professional shots without worrying about taking your own pictures during the ride – especially since you’ll want to be fully in the moment, enjoying the experience!
What Should You Wear for Husky Dog Sledding?
Dressing appropriately for husky dog sledding is essential to staying warm and comfortable throughout the experience. You’ll be sitting still for most of the ride, which means you won’t generate as much body heat as you would when skiing or snowboarding. Layering up is the best way to stay warm while still allowing for flexibility and movement.
Key Clothing Essentials:
- Base Layers: Start with a good-quality thermal top and leggings to trap heat close to your body. Merino wool or synthetic thermals work best.
- Mid Layers: A fleece or an insulated mid-layer helps retain warmth without adding too much bulk.
- Outer Layers: Your ski jacket and insulated ski trousers (or waterproof walking trousers with warm leggings underneath) will protect you from the wind and snow.
- Gloves: Insulated, waterproof gloves are a must. Mittens can be even warmer if your hands get cold easily.
- Hat & Neck Warmer: A warm beanie will help retain body heat, and a fleece or merino neck warmer will protect your face from chilly winds.
Footwear: What to Wear on Your Feet
Your feet can get very cold if they’re not well insulated, so choosing the right footwear is just as important as layering up your clothing.
- Waterproof, insulated boots are the best choice – snow boots or sturdy winter hiking boots with warm socks work well.
- Avoid ski boots – they are too stiff and not designed for sitting still in a sled.
- Snowboard boots can be a good option as they provide insulation and flexibility while still keeping your feet warm.
Extra Tips for Staying Warm:
- Hand warmers and foot warmers can make a huge difference, especially for children or anyone prone to cold hands and feet.
- Thick, thermal socks can help keep toes warm, but make sure your boots aren’t too tight, as restricted circulation can make feet colder.
- Sunglasses or goggles are useful if it’s a bright, snowy day to protect your eyes from glare.
Dressing properly means you’ll be able to fully enjoy the husky sledding experience without worrying about the cold – so bundle up and get ready for an unforgettable ride!
How to book husky dog sledding
If you're as keen as I was to try husky dog sledding for yourself, booking is just a quick step away. Simply reach out directly to either Hors Trace Aventure or Evolution 2 to secure your spot.
Hors Trace Aventure: You can either call on +33 6 34 45 53 15, or email Hors Trace. I emailed and they were super efficient at getting us booked in. You can pay in advance or pay when you arrive.
Evolution 2: You can call on +33 6 86 34 94 15 or visit their website.
Don't forget to mention any special requests or questions you might have.
That’s La Plagne and why husky dog sledding should be on your winter ski holiday list
Dog sledding in La Plagne is an absolute must-try activity for families on a ski holiday. It's a thrilling adventure that's suitable for all ages and fitness levels. You can rest easy knowing that the huskies are well-cared for, making this an ethical and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
So, whether you're a skiing pro or a first-timer, don't miss the chance to add some extra excitement to your family ski holiday in La Plagne. Husky dog sledding is the perfect way to create unforgettable memories and embrace the winter wonderland in style.
See you on the sleds.
Mush!
Can we reserve a Husky trail in this week. 21 -22- 23 februari
Hi there,
Thanks for getting in touch. So my site, That’s La Plagne, is a travel guide all about La Plagne. If you want to book the dog-sedding, you can see all the contact info for the different companies above. Try getting in touch with them directly to book something in.
Hope that helps – and that you’re having fun in La Plagne.
Jen