How We Determine When Tours Begin in Breckenridge

In the mountains, waiting on snow becomes a kind of winter ritual. We’re just as eager as you are for opening day: the first sled tracks on fresh powder, the dogs howling with excitement, snowmobiles humming through the trees. But we don’t open the minute the first storm hits — and the reason has everything to do with safety, trail depth, and how mountain snow actually works.

It might sound counterintuitive, but a safer trail actually makes for a more exciting ride. We’re pulling back the curtain on our decision-making process and sharing what we look for before the season officially begins.

Mountain Snow Isn’t the Same Everywhere

One of the biggest surprises for visitors is how dramatically snow changes from one part of town — or a trail — to another.

On any given storm cycle, we might see:

• 6 inches on the ridge,
• 3 inches in the open meadow, and
• bare ground in a shaded bend lined with trees.

From your view in town (or your friends’ posts on Instagram), everything looks ready. You see white ground, hear snow under your boots, and wonder why tours aren’t open yet.

But our routes cover miles of changing terrain — different elevations, exposures, wind zones, and forest density — all of which affect how much snow stays on the ground. Wind can strip one section bare while loading two feet of snow into a tree line 200 yards away. We can’t open part of a trail—every section needs to meet the same safety threshold from start to finish.

Why Dogsleds Need Deep, Compact Snow

Dogsleds are incredible machines — simple, durable, and designed for winter. But their safety systems rely on consistent snow depth.

A sled brake works by:

• biting into compact snow,
• creating friction, and
• helping the musher control speed.

A brake isn’t a backup plan — it’s the primary control system. That control only works when there’s enough compact snow beneath the sled. On dirt, grass, rocks, or thin snow, the brake can’t do its job. You might get traction in one stretch, then hit a bare patch 50 yards later and lose braking power exactly when you need it most.

In other words: for a sled to operate safely, the entire trail must have enough depth to support braking, steering, and momentum.

The excitement of the dogs is part of the magic — but it’s also why safety matters. When a team wants to run — and boy do they ever! — your brake is your confidence.

Why Snowmobiles Need Snow

Snowmobiles rely on snow in ways people don’t always realize.

Under the machine:

• the track grips the snow,
• the skis steer the front end, and
• the engine creates heat and needs cooling.

Snow isn’t just a surface to travel over — it provides:

• cooling,
• traction, and
• stability.

Every time a snowmobile passes over the same trail, it packs down snow and pushes some aside. That’s normal. But it means we don’t just need enough snow for one pass — we need enough for multiple tours every day without exposing dirt or rocks underneath.

Early opening isn’t just harder on the trail — it’s harder on safety. When coverage gets thin, control, cooling, and stopping power all disappear faster than snow can rebuild.

Why Ski Resorts Open Before We Do

This is a question we hear every year: “The ski hills are already open — why aren’t you?”

Short answer: ski resorts can make snow — we can’t. They start the season with a man-made snow base; we start with zero.

On a ski hill:

• snowmaking machines focus on a concentrated area,
• grooming equipment can rebuild the same slope every hour, and
• terrain is engineered to capture snow.

On our trails: we cover miles of natural forest terrain, through open fields, creek crossings, shaded corners, and windy ridges, with no access to snowmaking systems.

Even if one section looks perfect, it’s always the lowest, thinnest, or most exposed part of the trail that determines when we open.

Preparing the Trails: Behind the Scenes

While we wait for storms to build the base we need, we’re not sitting around hoping for a miracle. As soon as snow arrives, our teams:

Trail Work

• groom early snow to create a base
• pack low spots where snow settles unevenly
• hand-shovel snow into thin areas
• check known shallow sections

Trail Safety

• remove downed trees
• trim brush at low-snow height
• mark hazards
• reinforce bridge sections

By the time tours begin, everything feels effortless — we put in the work up front so each tour feels smooth, confident, and fun.

Depth Isn’t Everything—Snow Quality Matters Too

A snow report might show “12 inches,” but not all snow is equal.

Fresh powder has a lot of air in it. It looks deep, but:

• it compresses quickly,
• it can’t support repeated weight, and
• it doesn’t protect the ground underneath.

What we look for is base snow — layers that have:

• fallen,
• settled,
• been packed, and
• frozen together.

That’s what creates a surface that stays consistent over hills, curves, open meadows, and shaded corners.

Until the base exists, even a big storm can disappear in a day or two of sun.

Frozen Ground Is the Foundation

Snow depth tells part of the story. Ground temperature tells the other half.

Even with snow on top, warm ground melts from below. The first layer becomes slush, which can:

• collapse under the sleds,
• expose dirt on corners,
• create uneven braking, and
• break down the trail faster than storms can rebuild it.

When the ground is frozen, it’s a solid platform. That matters for:

• controlling sled speed,
• predictable turns, and
• and keeping the base intact during warm spells.

How We Decide Opening Day

There isn’t a single number that tells us when to start the season. Opening day is a pattern we recognize — not a single measurement.

We track trail coverage, base strength, safety controls, and weather patterns to answer one question: Is the full route safe — and fun — from start to finish?

Here’s what we look for:

• Deep, consistent coverage across the entire trail
• A compact snow base that holds overnight
• Frozen ground under the snow (not soft soil)
• Reliable braking surfaces on hills and corners
• Multiple storms building layers over time

When those line up—the season begins!

Final Thoughts

Snow in town is exciting — it means winter is here. But snow on the trail is what makes a tour happen.

Waiting for the right amount of snow builds:

• a safer trail,
• more consistent snow,
• better braking,
• a smoother ride, and
• an all around better experience for you, our guides, and our dogs.

We’re just as eager as you are — and when the mountains say “go,” we’ll be ready!

Staying in the Loop for the 2025/2026 Season

Tours are slated to begin December 17th. As you read above, this could change if we get enough snow ahead of that date. The best way to stay informed is to sign up for our Adventure Club newsletter.

Interested in booking a tour? Follow the link below.

BOOK NOW

Want to learn more about dogsledding and snowmobiling in the mountains? Check out the rest of the Adventure Blog.

As always, you can also follow along on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok at @goodtimesbreck for weather updates, tour openings, and general mountain fun.

Understanding Altitude and Preparing for Your Mountain Vacation

Breckenridge sits at nearly 10,000 feet above sea level, which makes it one of the highest ski towns in North America. The views are spectacular, the snow is world-class, and the air is… a little different up here.

If you’ve never vacationed at high altitude before, here’s your friendly guide to what to expect, how to acclimate, and how to feel great during your trip — whether you’re coming to ski, relax, or join us for dogsledding or snowmobiling at Good Times Adventures.

Why Altitude Affects You (The Light-Science Version)

At higher elevations, the air is thinner — meaning there’s less oxygen. Not dangerously less, just different enough to notice.

What changes at 10,000 ft:

• With each breath, you take in about 30% less oxygen compared to sea level
• The air is much drier
• The sun’s UV rays are stronger
• Your breathing rate increases slightly
• Hydration becomes more important

Your body will adjust — but give it time and kindness your first day.

FUN FACT: It takes longer for water to boil at altitude, so make sure to plan ahead for those pasta feasts!

Before You Travel: Set Yourself Up for a Great Trip

These simple plan-ahead habits will help your body acclimate more smoothly once you arrive.

• Hydrate well the day before you fly or drive
• Get a full night of sleep before departure
• Avoid heavy alcohol the night before travel
• If you’re coming from sea level, consider planning a more relaxed first day
• Pack electrolytes — they help tremendously at high altitude
• If you’re prone to dry skin or sinus irritation, bring a good moisturizer or saline spray

PRO TIP: If you’re flying in, start sipping water on the plane. Cabin air is dry and dehydrating, and you’ll feel the altitude more if you land already depleted.

Altitude Sickness: What It Is (and Isn’t)

Most people experience:

• Mild headaches
• Slight fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Feeling winded more easily
• Restless sleep on the first night

This is normal and temporary. Symptoms improve quickly with hydration, rest, and pacing. True altitude sickness is uncommon in Breckenridge and is usually related to overexertion, dehydration, or drinking alcohol too early in your trip.

Hydration + Electrolytes (Your Best Altitude Ally)

Hydration is the single most important thing you can do at altitude — but water alone isn’t always enough.

Because you breathe faster and the air is dry, your body loses fluids and electrolytes more quickly.

Here’s what helps:

• Bring or buy electrolyte packets (LMNT, Liquid I.V., Gatorade, Nuun — all great)
• Sip them throughout your first 48 hours
• Aim to drink more than you think you need

PRO TIP: Electrolytes help reduce headaches, fatigue, and dizziness — and make acclimation much easier.

Oxygen Canisters: A Helpful Boost (Not a Cure)

You’ll see portable oxygen canisters in almost every ski-town shop. They’re not medical devices, but they can give a temporary boost if you’re feeling:

• Slightly tired
• Short of breath
• Headachy

They don’t cure altitude effects — but they can help you feel clearer and more comfortable while your body adjusts.

Many guests use them their first night or first morning.

PRO TIP: For those that may need a little more help alleviating symptoms, there are oxygen bars in town like The O2 Lounge or PS Oxygen Bar.

Over-the-Counter Supplements That May Help

These over-the-counter options are generally considered helpful at altitude:

• Iron (for people who are borderline low — improves oxygen transport)
• Magnesium (helps with sleep, hydration, and muscle relaxation)
• B-complex or B12 (supports energy levels)
• Electrolyte minerals like sodium/potassium

IMPORTANT NOTE: None of these replace medical advice, and you should only take supplements that are already safe for you personally. But many travelers report they feel better with some combination of the above.

Your First 24 Hours: Take It Easy

We know you’ll be excited to arrive in the mountains and jump straight into the adventure — it’s hard not to. But do yourself a favor and ease into things your first day. The mountains have plenty of joy to offer that doesn’t require equipment or high energy exertion.

Think: sipping hot chocolate by the fireplace, wandering through town to see the Christmas lights, or hosting a game night at the Airbnb while snow falls outside. It’s all part of the Colorado magic.

Let your body ease into the elevation:

• Hydrate consistently
• Add electrolytes
• Eat nourishing meals (your metabolism works harder up here)
• Walk instead of hike
• Hold off on alcohol
• Rest as needed

By Day 2 or 3, most people feel amazing — energized, acclimated, and ready for whatever mountain adventure is calling next.

Sun + Weather: Stronger Than They Look

At 10,000 feet, the weather has a personality of its own — and it’s a lot more powerful than many visitors expect. The sun shines brighter, the air is drier, and even on cold days, you can feel the warmth the moment you step outside. And because snow reflects sunlight, you’re basically getting sunshine from above and below.

It’s beautiful… but it can also sneak up on you if you’re not prepared.

Here’s how to stay comfortable:

• Wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days
• Keep SPF lip balm handy (your lips will thank you)
• Protect your eyes with sunglasses or goggles
• Dress in layers — mountain weather loves to change its mind

A little preparation goes a long way in keeping you warm, comfortable, and ready to enjoy every minute of the high-alpine sunshine.

Read more about what to wear in the mountains in the blog post Tips for Dogsledding & Snowmobiling in Colorado

Kids at Altitude

Kids are adventurous, resilient, and usually the first ones to fall in love with the mountains — but they’re also the first to forget to drink water. At high altitude, little bodies dehydrate faster, and the results can look a lot like… well, classic kid behavior.

Think: sudden grumpiness, getting tired out of nowhere, or melting down even though nothing is wrong… except they probably need a sip of water and a quick snack.

To help them feel their best:

• Offer water often (Gatorade-like beverages can be a great treats that also offer better hydration)
• Pack easy, familiar snacks (the kind you know will save the day)
• Keep the first day mellow and flexible

Once kids acclimate — usually within 24 hours — they tend to rebound with even more energy and excitement for exploring the mountains.

Looking for more family-friendly activities? Check out our Guide for Traveling with Kids in Breckenridge.

Sleep Can Be a Little Weird (But It Gets Better!)

One of the quiet surprises of high altitude is how it affects sleep. Many visitors notice:

• Restless tossing and turning
• Waking up more often during the night
• Dreams that feel unusually vivid
• Feeling warmer than usual

This is normal and temporary — your body is adjusting its breathing rhythm as it adapts to the thinner air. Most people sleep far better by the second night, especially with good hydration and a gentle first day.

Once You’re Rested: Plan Your Adventures with Intention

After your body has had a little time to adjust — and after a solid night’s sleep or two — you’ll feel ready to take on the bigger, more thrilling parts of your mountain vacation.

That’s the perfect time to dive into activities like:

• Skiing
• Snowshoeing
• Long hikes
• Snowmobiling—learn more at Your Guide to Snowmobiling in Breckenridge
• Dogsledding—check out the blog post Dogsledding 101 for more

Your energy will last longer, you’ll feel stronger, and you’ll enjoy the views so much more once you’re properly acclimated. Trust us — the mountains are even better when you give yourself time to settle into them.

Preparing for Your Tour at Good Times Adventures

If your plans include joining us for a tour, your activity will take place between 9,000 and 12,000 feet, depending on conditions.

To feel your best—and yes, we know we sound like a broken record—make sure to:

• Hydrate well the night before
• Add electrolytes in the morning
• Eat a good breakfast
• Dress warmly in layers
• Arrive early so you’re not rushing
• Let your guide know if it’s your first time at altitude

Our guides pace the tour for comfort — not speed — so you can enjoy the mountains without overexerting.

BOOK NOW

Vacation at 10,000 Feet—A Little Planning. A Lot of Fun.

Your body is built to adapt to high altitude — it just needs a little time and care along the way. With good hydration, a few electrolytes, and a mellow first day, most visitors feel fantastic once they settle into mountain life. A little planning truly goes a long way toward making your vacation more comfortable, more enjoyable, and a whole lot more fun.

Welcome to Breckenridge.
You’re going to love it up here.

And, as always, you can follow along on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok at @goodtimesbreck for more mountain shenanigans!

How Relay-Style Dogsledding Tours Work—and Why They’re Great for All Ages!

While many families join us for dogsledding year after year, for most guests this is a first-time, bucket-list adventure — and it can be hard to imagine exactly how everything works once you’re out on the trail.

So when we say you’ll get to mush in a relay-style tour — yes, even kids as young as five — this is what we mean. Unlike many outfitters where guests only ride in the basket, our tours are designed to let everyone take a turn at the back of the sled. Here’s how it all shakes out.

What to Expect on a Relay-Style Tour

Every dogsledding tour at Good Times includes:

• 1 Guide
• 1 Dog Team (usually eight dogs)
• Up to 6 Guests

Instead of staying in one spot the whole time, your group cycles between:

• Mushing (standing on the back of the dogsled)
• Riding on the dogsled in the passenger basket (in front of the musher)
• Riding in the passenger sleigh (pulled behind the guide’s snowmobile)

This rotation helps everyone experience every role — hands-on action, riding while taking in the view, and some seriously adorable dog time.

Diagram: How It Will Look

The above is a simple visual of how your group will move through the trail as a team.

The Three Positions You’ll Experience

Mushing—Standing on the Back of the Dogsled

This is one of the most unique parts of our tours. At many dogsledding companies, guests only ride in the passenger basket while a guide does all the mushing. At Good Times Adventures, you get to do the driving.

Under your guide’s coaching, you’ll:

• Stand on the runners
• Keep the sled balanced
• Turn & use the brake
• Help the dog team navigate the trail

Most guests say this hands-on moment becomes the highlight of their entire Colorado trip.

Riding in the Passenger Basket

This low-to-the-snow vantage point is all the excitement with none of the work! While riding, you’ll be more free to take in the scenery while still feeling the trill of being pulled by our athletic huskies. If you’re feeling risky, you can even sneak out a camera for some great POV action shots.

Riding in the Passenger Sleigh

This is the least physically demanding position while still being right in the middle of the adventure. As you ride in front of the dogs, you can turn around for the best views of all the happy faces—humans and dogs alike. It’s also the only place you can get photos like this.

How Guests Rotate Through Each Role

Your guide will stop at various points along the trail throughout the tour. These stops are for:

• Changing positions;
• Adjusting gear;
• Taking photos;
• Asking questions; and, most importantly,
• Getting some well-deserved dog time!

Guests rotate through the positions more than once so you get a truly full-spectrum experience.

What Happens During Trail Breaks

Beyond rotating positions and drinking water (don’t forget to stay hydrated!)—these stops are also prime-time memory-makers. Think:

• Hugging and petting the dogs
• Taking selfies and getting group photos
• Hearing fun facts and stories about the pups
• Watching the pups roll around in the snow
• Giving—and getting—lots of love!

And when we say photo ops, we mean it!

Why Relay-Style Touring Works So Well

Relay-style dogsledding gives everyone — guests and dogs — a chance to experience the tour in the best possible way. As you rotate between mushing, riding in the basket, and relaxing in the passenger sleigh, you naturally build in moments to rest, take photos, and soak in the quiet beauty of the Swan River Valley. And while our dogs adore running, six miles on snowy mountain trails is still real work — these pauses give them well-earned breaks, plenty of praise, and time to reset before the next stretch. The result is a safe, dynamic, hands-on adventure that’s comfortable for all ages and keeps every member of the team — two-legged and four-legged — feeling their best. Instead of watching from the sidelines, you’re truly part of the experience from start to finish.

How Booking Works and Who You’ll Ride With

Each dogsledding team accommodates up to six guests, led by one guide. That group of six might be your entire party, or you may be paired with another small group—something that often turns into one of the most fun surprises of the day. (It’s not unusual for strangers to end the tour swapping photos and cheering each other on.)

When you book online, you’ll see a 2×6 seat grid:

Here’s what it actually means:

• The six dots represent the six guest spots on a single dog team.
• It doesn’t matter which specific dots you click—any open spot places you on that sled.
• The only thing that matters is that everyone in your group selects seats on the same SLED (Sled 1, Sled 2, or Sled 3).

If availability is limited and your group needs to be split between two or more sleds, don’t worry! All three sleds at the same tour time will depart from and return to base at the same time. You’ll each cover a unique route through the trails and meet up afterward to warm up with hot chocolate, share photos, and swap mushing stories.

The Full Experience: Hands-On, Scenic, and Family-Friendly

Relay-style touring gives you a little bit of everything:

• High-energy, action-packed mushing
• Hands-free, energetic passenger experiences
• Scenic views
• Husky interaction
• Photo and video opportunities from every angle
• A shared, memorable adventure for all ages!

Most guests finish the tour saying: “I didn’t expect to love every part — but I did!” Straight from Trip Advisor this past February:

“I absolutely loved dog sledding with this company! The dogs were so friendly, lovable and energetic. Our guide made the whole experience fantastic! We took turns guiding the sled through a scenic, snowy and treed 6 mile course. Great photo ops throughout the unforgettable experience.”

Get Ready for a Dogsledding Adventure!

Winter tours begin December 17th and are booking now! The holidays are almost sold out and other dates are filling fast. Snag your spots today.

BOOK NOW

And, as always, you can follow along on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok at @goodtimesbreck for more mountain shenanigans!

How to Find a Little Mountain Magic Before the Snow Falls with Golden Horseshoe Sleigh Rides

Here’s a local secret: you don’t have to wait for deep snow to feel the real mountain magic. Before the trails turn white and the dog teams and snowmobiles take over, there’s a quieter kind of wonder happening just up the road.

Our neighbors at Golden Horseshoe Sleigh Rides start running their Fall Wagon Hayrides long before the snowpack builds. Think cozy blankets, steaming drinks, gentle draft horses, and views of mountain tops peeking through the pines.

It’s one of those easy, off-the-beaten-path adventures you might miss if someone didn’t tip you off — and it all happens right on the Good Times property.

It’s the perfect way to catch your breath, soak in the season, and feel that first whisper of winter.

Pro Tip: Even after the ski slopes open, this is an ideal add-on to a mountain getaway, an alternative for non-skiers or littles, or a peaceful break from lift lines and heavy gear.

A Horse-Drawn Ride Through the Colorado Backcountry Awaits

Just a few miles up the Swan River Valley on Tiger Road — right at our shared entrance — you’ll find the starting point for Golden Horseshoe’s Fall Wagon Hayrides. The ride follows the Middle Fork trail, weaving through quiet pines and meadows along the edge of the White River National Forest at nearly 10,000 feet above sea level.

Two Belgian draft horses — strong, steady, and surprisingly sweet — are harnessed to pull a cherry-red wagon fitted with hay bales that can seat up to 20 guests. Rides are shared, so you might be joined by other mountain adventurers — but that just adds to the friendly, seasonal charm.

Here’s what to expect:

• A 30-minute scenic ride led by seasoned wranglers
• 10 minutes of horse time at the end for photos and pets
• Cozy blankets available if needed — but don’t forget your layers
• A warm mug of house-made apple cider or hot cocoa (adult version available for 21+ with a designated driver)
• Time to warm up after the ride in a historic miner’s tent with a crackling wood stove — or linger by the campfire tucked into the pines

Trail setting? Postcard and Instagram-worthy. Vibe? Rocky Mountain chic.

A Cozy Break from the Slopes (or a Great Option for Non-Skiers)

Breckenridge is buzzing once the ski hills are open — but not everyone wants to (or can) spend all day on the mountain. Whether you’re traveling with littles, non-skiers, tired legs, or just craving a quiet moment away from lift lines and gear bags, the Fall Wagon Hayride offers the perfect pause.

Who Will Love This:

• Families with kids too small for the slopes
• Mixed-activity groups (skiers + chill-seekers)
• Locals and travelers who want a calmer kind of mountain moment
• Guests looking to add a rustic, seasonal adventure to their stay
• Skiers who need a break between morning runs and après — without leaving that high-elevation magic behind

Fall Wagon Hayrides happen just a short drive from downtown Breckenridge — no lift tickets, parking hassle, or equipment rentals. Just wide-open mountain air in a quiet, picturesque setting.

Traveling with young children and looking for other alternatives to the slopes? Check out our Family-Friendly Activity Guide for more ideas!

Make It a Full Cozy Colorado Day

The last Fall Wagon Hayride wraps up in the mid-afternoon—just in time to roll into Breckenridge and catch a little afternoon happy-hour glow.

A few local favorites to keep the vibes going:

• Breckenridge Distillery – Award-winning spirits and a full food menu
• Breckenridge Brewery – Classic craft beers and hearty fare, great for groups
• Broken Compass Brewery – Laid-back and dog-friendly — perfect if you’re traveling with four-legged family members

Whether you’re warming up or winding down, these local spots are the perfect way to toast a cozy fall afternoon in Breck.

Know Before You Go

• Location: Same entrance and parking as Good Times Adventures (Get directions here!)
• Season: Fall Wagon Hayrides begin in early November and switch into full sleigh ride mode once there’s enough snow (usually mid-December). Winter offerings typically continue through April, depending on snow levels as the weather warms.
• Who It’s For: All ages are welcome
• What to Wear: Layers, hats, gloves — blankets are available if needed, but you’ll be happier bundled up
• Don’t Forget: Sunglasses — that high-altitude sun is no joke, even in the cold
• How to Book: Reserve directly with Golden Horseshoe at https://coloradosleighrides.com/sleigh-rides/fall-hay-wagon-ride/

Pro Tip: While hot cocoa and cider are offered on site, there’s no coffee available, so plan ahead if you need a caffeine boost. Try local favorites like Cuppa Joe, The Crown, or Clint’s Bakery on your way up — or bring your own thermos of coffee to stay fueled.

Looking Ahead to Winter

Once the snow starts stacking up, the wagon wheels come off and the sleigh runners take over. Keep an eye on the website for details, but the full schedule includes Private Romantic Sleigh Rides, Hot Cocoa Rides in the Big Red Sled, the Mining Camp Dinner Theatre Ride, and more!

Learn more about winter activities and booking at coloradosleighrides.com!

And when there’s enough snowpack, Good Times also starts firing up the Ski-Doos and pulling out the dog sleds, so you can come out and enjoy everything the mountains have to offer — maybe even all three!

You can check out Good Times’ snowmobile tours and dog sledding adventures at goodtimesadventures.com. Or dive deeper with our First-Time Snowmobiling Guide and Dog Sledding 101 blogs to get an insider look at what to expect before you go!

Retired Sled Dogs Finding Their Next Adventure in the Mountains and Beyond

Our huskies spend their winter and summer seasons leading dogsledding guests through the White River National Forest, showing off the beauty and excitement of Breckenridge’s backcountry. If you’ve ever seen them in action — or follow along at @goodtimessleddogs — you know they’re athletes, characters, and total show-stealers.

But eventually, it’s time to hang up their harnesses. When that day comes, they will always have a home with their Good Times family — yet we’ve also built something special: a program that helps these incredible dogs retire in style and get ready for their next adventure… maybe with you!

Meet the Good Times Adoption Program

The Good Times Sled Dog Adoption Program connects retired sled dogs with families who can give them the space, activity, and companionship they deserve after years of hard work in the mountains. Most of our dogs retire between eight and nine years old, though some continue happily on the trails until they’re ten or even eleven. Occasionally, a younger dog decides that a quieter lifestyle suits them best.

Each dog is well socialized, hardworking, and full of character — but no two are alike. Some retire with plenty of pep in their step, ready to run beside your bike or join you on skis. Others are content to slow down, enjoy shorter walks, and settle in for some well-earned couch time.

Our goal is always to pair each dog with a family whose daily routine matches their natural energy and temperament.

“Adopting Zoom was one of the best decisions we’ve made. He went from racing up mountain trails to running circles in our backyard — same smile, same energy, just a different kind of adventure.”
— Megan H., adopted 2023

What’s Different About Adopting a Sled Dog

These dogs have spent most of their lives outdoors, surrounded by snow, packmates, and mountain air — so a warm, cozy house can be a whole new world. Some have spent time indoors with our guides, but others have never left the dog yard. That means a few everyday experiences are completely new:

• Being inside: Soft beds, blankets, and heating vents are exciting discoveries, but many still love to sleep outside under the open sky — even covered in snow.
• Stairs: They might hesitate at first, but usually master them quickly.
• Doors and mirrors: Expect a few curious looks, a little confusion, and lots of nose prints.
• Car rides: Riding in a car is a brand-new experience for most of our huskies. Many grow to love it — especially when adventure awaits at the other end — but it can take some time.

Watching a sled dog experience these “firsts” — their first nap by a fire, or their first ride to a trailhead — is a quiet kind of joy that never gets old.

Why Adopt an Older Dog?

Older sled dogs bring steadiness and personality to a home. They’re experienced, confident, and already accustomed to working as part of a team. Many settle easily into family life and thrive on routine, gentle attention, and time outdoors.

They’ve given many years to the trails, but the best is still to come. Retirement isn’t the end of their adventure — it’s an expansion of it. These dogs are ready to carry forward the same partnership built on trust, patience, and shared experience, now shaped by a new kind of everyday life.

Every retired sled dog carries the spirit of the mountains — focused, capable, and ready for whatever comes next. Whether your version of adventure is a morning run, a weekend hike, or simply daily walks around the neighborhood, these dogs make loyal and lively companions who are eager to share the trail.

How the Adoption Process Works

Interested families can start by filling out a brief interest form. From there, our team reaches out to learn more about your lifestyle, home environment, and experience with active breeds.

Sometimes a family has their eye on a specific dog; other times, they just know they’re ready to welcome a retired sled dog into their lives. Either way, our goal is to make the best possible match for both the dog and the adopter. If a particular dog isn’t a good fit for your environment, we’ll help guide you toward one whose personality and needs are a better match.

The process usually begins with a phone conversation, followed by a visit to the dog yard to meet our staff and spend time with some of the adoptable dogs. While we do our best to keep the website up to date, there are often additional pups available — so visits can be a great opportunity to meet a few new faces.

Every adoption is personal and carefully guided by our experienced staff, who know each dog’s habits, quirks, and favorite places to get scratches or rubs.

There’s no formal adoption fee, but we ask for a suggested $100 donation to help support the program and future placements — allowing us to continue finding great homes for each dog as they transition into their next chapter.

And if, for any reason, an adoption doesn’t work out, we’ll always welcome the dog back home. These dogs are our family, and they will always have a place here with us.

“They may be retired, but they never lose their focus or drive. Watching them adapt and thrive in new homes is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do.”
— Good Times Kennel Staff

Join Our Pack

Our adoption team works closely with every family to ensure the best fit for both dog and human — whether you’re looking for a trail partner or a couch companion. To date, we’ve placed dozens of retired sled dogs into loving homes across Colorado and beyond, each one beginning a well-earned new chapter.

If you’re ready to open your home to a true working dog — one who’s brought joy to thousands of visitors and still has plenty of heart (and personality) left for adventure — learn more and meet our available dogs at gtsleddogadoption.com.

Reminder: You can also catch more of the dogs in action and preview adoption highlights by following along @goodtimessleddogs.