Dog Sledding in Styria – An Exhilarating Personal Challenge
A unique winter experience: how a husky sled ride turned out to be an exciting rollercoaster of emotions – from anticipation to a great adventure and breathtaking surroundings.
Unbridled Strength, Infinite Freedom, and Plenty of Fresh Air
As tense as I felt before heading out with the huskies, all the happier and freer I felt afterwards. Content, but also completely exhausted – physically and mentally – I arrived back at the camp. I was out of breath, my legs were weak from helping uphill, and the two dogs were steaming from the exertion.
My husband was waiting for me eagerly, as he still had his ride ahead. I unharnessed my two companions and gave them the food that had already been prepared for them. This was accompanied by lots of strokes, as a journey like that really brings you together.
Preparing for the Husky Adventure
So far so good. A few weeks later, in mid-February, the preparations could begin. But what would I need? You never know …
Be sure to take:
- Ski suit ✓
- Ski gloves ✓
- Hat ✓
- Socks ✓
- Sturdy shoes ✓
- Food ✓
- Water ✓
- Sun cream ✓
I do love a list.
And so we set off – well equipped – to the Teichalm. That morning it was snowing like crazy in Vienna, and anyone who has experienced a big city in the snow knows that everything takes longer than planned. Granted, the combination of missing snow chains and snow-covered mountain roads was not ideal.
We arrived 15 minutes late, but the instructor had kindly waited for us. After the turbulent drive, I was finally able to relax and take in the surroundings. A beautiful high plateau stretched ahead of us, covered in white. The pine trees were sprinkled with icing, the air was bitterly cold, and the dogs seemed to be as excited as we were if there barking was anything to go by.
Dog Sledding – Tuning Into the Dogs
"You can’t fool a dog. Dogs feel everything; they can almost read your mind."
As tense as I felt before heading out with the huskies, all the happier and freer I felt afterwards. After an hour we started heading back and I began braking gently to signalise to the dog’s that we were coming to the end of our adventure.
Content, but also completely exhausted – physically and mentally – I arrived back at the camp. My husband was waiting for me eagerly, as he still had his ride ahead. I wished him a fantastic time, before his sled jolted off. The time had come to unharness my two dogs, Aischa and Akon. I gave them a stroke, buried my fingers in their warm fur, and felt their panting chests. Grateful for the caresses, they held out their cold noses to me. It was lovely to feel their trust and appreciation. I rewarded them with their food, which they wolfed down. But to be honest, I felt just as rewarded as the two huskies.
The dogs had already been fed and watered when my husband returned from his ride and we registered our own rumbling stomachs. So we stopped at a nearby restaurant. With rosy cheeks from the sun, excitement, and cold, we treated ourselves to a large pan of Styrian "Kasnocken" (pasta dumplings covered in cheese). We fell silent; we were happy. Incredible, how a day of adventure, exercise, fresh air – and animals – can touch all of the senses.
I am proud of myself for facing this challenge. I would recommend dog sledding to anyone who has yet to try it. Yes, I’m an avid musher!
Originally, the powerful sled dog was an important companion of the nomadic peoples in northern Siberia. Its icy origin is attested by the thick, two-layered fur and comparatively small paws, which prevent the loss of body heat. The husky has striking eyes, which can be blue, brown, or multi-coloured. Huskies are friendly, gentle, and fond of children. Thanks to their excellent sense of direction, they can follow paths and routes even when they are covered by thick snow. Husky sled rides are very popular and widespread in the alpine region.
Hikes With Huskies in Summer
Dog sledding is cool, but you can also embark on summer adventures with huskies.