Thursday's Sled Run

No passenger for this trip but we did bring weight in both sleds to help with control. Sleds are often easier to handle with weight in them but we may have loaded Nita's down too much. The dogs all did well but some were very pooped by the time we came back in. Most of the youngsters took to the trail with flying colors and came back looking like they could go another round! :)

The trail we took was super tough on the dogs, lots of grass to break through, minimal snow and a very old trail to find. Hermes and Juno were in lead and did an amazing job of remembering our old route after only being on it for one season. The only trouble was when I asked them to bypass some of the trouble spots (avoiding certain trees) and even then they only needed minor direction to get them back on track.

We didn't get down the entire path but managed to make a pretty healthy dent and with the snow coming down right now it will look even better the next time out.

This weekend is super busy for me... I don't have time to go into too much more detail but I can share these wonderful photos that Nita took during our trip. Its amazing that she is so comfortable with the camera. There were so many times out there that I didn't even feel comfortable taking my hands off the sled handlebow!

Tipping the sled over is often the best way to secure it on trails like these. Snowhooks will hold on all the grassy vegetation but full friction from an overturned sled is much more reliable.

Had to do this a few times to deal with tangles and straighten out the leaders from time to time. You get a good idea of how rough a trail can be when you have to climb into your sled like a boat!

Boreas waits in Nita's team with Calypso beside him in the tall grass of the slough

Heading back to the parking area. Nita keeps her team held while I mush on ahead. Most dogs would rather chase than listen to their musher and their commands. This is crutial training for the dogs to learn to listen to Nita and trust in her commands and not follow my lead ahead.

Boreas takes these lessons very closely and listens intently to what Nita asks for.

Climbing the hill, headed for home as the sun sets on the horizon...