Dog Sledding in Winter

Dog sledding in Mongolia is a winter activity offered mainly in Gorkhi-Terelj National Park near Ulaanbaatar and on and around frozen Lake Khövsgöl in the north. Trips range from a half-day introduction to multi-day expeditions with nights in gers or log cabins, usually between December and March.

Where to go dog sledding

• Gorkhi-Terelj National Park: about 1.5–2 hours' drive from Ulaanbaatar, with snowy valleys, frozen rivers and pine forest. Day trips and short overnight programmes suit first-timers. Snow cover can be thin in some winters, so ask about conditions before booking.
• Lake Khövsgöl: one of the most dramatic sledding settings anywhere, with the vast frozen lake surface, mountains and shoreline forest. Multi-day trips usually run from about February to March and can be combined with the Khövsgöl Ice Festival, held around early March, though its dates vary from year to year. Getting there in winter normally means a domestic flight to Mörön, where schedules vary, followed by a drive to Khatgal at the southern tip of the lake.

Winter conditions in Mongolia

Mongolian winters are long, dry and very cold. From December to February, daytime temperatures are often below –20 °C, and nights in the north can fall below –30 °C, with wind chill making it feel colder still. Snowfall is generally light and skies are often clear and sunny, but days are short. Lake Khövsgöl freezes thick, yet ice conditions vary: cracks and pressure ridges form, and ice near river mouths and springs can be weak. Travel on the ice only with experienced local guides who check it regularly.

What to wear for dog sledding

Dress in layers you can adjust as you work and rest:

• a thermal base layer, a wool or fleece mid-layer and a down jacket or parka;
• insulated, windproof trousers;
• boots rated for very low temperatures, or traditional felt-lined boots;
• thick mittens over thin liner gloves;
• a warm hat, a balaclava or neck gaiter, and ski goggles against wind and glare;
• spare socks and chemical hand warmers.

Some operators lend winter clothing such as a deel or boots, so ask what is included.

Choosing a dog-sledding operator

Dog sledding is offered by a small number of specialist operators and ger camps, and their programmes change from season to season, so treat any recommendation as something to check. Ask how the dogs are cared for all year round, including housing, feeding and summer rest; how big the teams and groups are; the guides' experience and first-aid training; what clothing is provided; and what happens during a severe cold snap or if snow is poor. Confirm emergency communication and evacuation plans, get the itinerary and price in writing, and make sure your insurance covers winter activities.

Practical tips

• Batteries drain fast in the cold: keep your phone and camera inside your jacket.
• Drink warm fluids regularly; dry cold air dehydrates you quickly.
• Watch for frostbite: white, numb patches on the face or fingers need warming straight away.
• Combine sledding with other winter highlights such as Tsagaan Sar, the Lunar New Year, and the ice festivals.
• Book early if you want to travel during festival dates.