Priest Lake sled tours are doggone fun

PRIEST LAKE — It's one of the most beautiful areas in Bonner County.

But how to get to some of the hidden nooks and counties when winter snow or the remote locations make getting there difficult?

That's where Priest Lake Husky Sled Tours comes in.

The new business offers two-hour sled dog tours of the Priest Lake area, running on the area's beautiful scenic trails through the mountains.

"Bonner County’s terrain is gorgeous and diverse with mountains, lakes and snow," Stephen and Danielle Porter said in a press release about why they opened the company. "It’s near many ski resorts, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. It’s growing more and more as a winter destination."

Experienced and educated guides lead the tours, who not only share information about the region but also about its history and the role of sled dogs in both the region and the country.

All of the dogs used by Priest Lake Husky Sled Tours are rescues, friendly and good with both adults and children, the Porters said. Care is taken to make the tours both fun and educational, and the tours include both a snack and hot chocolate and participants will have plenty of chances for pictures of unparalleled scenery as well as with the guide dogs.

"This is a 'bucket list' experience," the Porters said. "You'll remember it the rest of your life."

All of the dogs used by Priest Lake Husky Sled Tours are rescues and are both very friendly and good with children, the couple said.

The couple decided to open the business, both because they love sledding and want to share information about their amazing dogs and how truly special they, and the sport, are. The area's terrain also played a role and, with the dogs' ability to get to areas people might not normally experience during the winter, it seemed a perfect fit, they said, noting the region's location near ski resorts, cross-country skiing and snowmobile trails and its growing attraction as a winter destination.

The sled dog tours run on a permitted part of Idaho's endowment lands near Coolin, an area where there is little to no snowmobiling. That ensures a quiet experience that allows tour participants a chance to experience the area at its most natural.

"Our sled tours are designed to showcase the natural beauty of Priest Lake," the couple said on their website. "Whether it's the fresh, crisp air, the snow-covered trees, or the peaceful silence that comes with being in the heart of nature, there's something for everyone to enjoy."

The immersive experience includes details about mushing, sled dogs, and the care and upkeep needed to keep their dogs safe and healthy. The Porters said 

Our Huskies are more than just our employees; they're our family," the couple said. "Each dog in our team has been rescued and given a safe and loving home with us. they're energetic, friendly and excited to meet you. They are the heart and soul of our tours and we wouldn't have it any other way."

Priest Lake Sled Dog Tours is currently taking bookings for the 2024-'25 season.

Information: plhuskies.com

    Stephen and Danielle Porter have launched Priest Lake Husky Sled Tours, offering two-hour sled dog tours in the Priest Lake area.