Family owned and operated since 1976, Trail Breaker Kennel is one of the longest operating kennels in Alaska. The kennel was founded in Eureka, Alaska by the late Susan Butcher, a four-time Iditarod champion, and David Monson, her husband, and Yukon Quest champion. Built on a reputation of exemplary dog care and hard work, Trail Breaker Kennel became the premier racing kennel in the world. In 1990, Susan and David purchased property in Fairbanks, Alaska, and established Trail Breaker Kennel on the banks of the Chena River.
Today, David, his two daughters, and dedicated staff members provide visitors from around the world a look at the lives of mushers and Alaskan huskies in Interior Alaska. For over 20 years, Trail Breaker Kennel has been a favorite stop on the Riverboat Discovery tour. Kennel tours, dog sled rides, and other custom tours are offered seasonally. We hope to see you on your adventure in the Last Frontier!
The health and safety of our staff, huskies, visitors, and community have always been our top priority. Due to COVID-19, we are implementing new policies to ensure the safety of our guests and staff at the kennel. We will continue to monitor the situation and make any necessary changes to follow all Alaska state and federal mandates.
Due to Governor Dunleavy’s recent 30-day COVID-19 disaster declaration, we plan to open for winter tours starting December 16, 2020. Book your Dog Sled Ride online today! If you are part of a larger group, please call us at (907) 347-7274 with your requested tour date and number of guests in your party, and we will do our best to accommodate you.
Our summer 2021 calendar is open for bookings! Visit Trail Breaker Kennel on your nest Alaskan summer vacation by booking your spot on a Summer Kennel Tour. When the time is right for you, we can’t wait to welcome you to Alaska!
Happy, and most importantly, healthy trails from the crew at Trail Breaker Kennel.
Winter Tours (December 16, 2020 - March 31, 2020)
Join the team at historic Trail Breaker Kennel for an unforgettable winter tour during your next Alaskan Vacation! Experience the thrill of mushing on an Alaskan Dog Sled Ride or craft your own experience on a Custom Alaskan Winter Tour. Learn why there’s no better way to experience the Last Frontier than on dog sled at Trail Breaker Kennel! Book your Dog Sled Ride today!
Granite
Read the story of how Susan and her lead dog Granite persevered through challenges to become the championship team they are known for today. Written by David and Susan, Granite tells the empowering story of a little puppy who nobody believed in. Through Susan’s faith in Granite, and hard work by both, Granite eventually became one of the greatest lead dogs in history.
Purchase your own copy of Granite that has been personally signed and dedicated by author David Monson, here.
Shop the Trail Breaker Trading Post
Explore our selection of Trail Breaker Kennel apparel, Alaskan made gifts, and much more at the Trail Breaker Trading Post!
Summer Kennel Tour (May - September)
Learn what it’s like to run a kennel on a walking tour of one of the longest operating kennels in Alaska. Join one of our experienced mushers as they show you around the kennel, introduce you to our amazing canine athletes and teach you how we prepare for the 1,000-mile Iditarod and Yukon Quest races. Reserve your spot on our Summer Kennel Tour for 2021 today!
For more information on this tour, click here.
Riverboat Discovery Tour (May - September)
Take a trip on the Riverboat Discovery to Trail Breaker Kennel. View a dog mushing demonstration from the banks of the Chena River and learn what it takes to run a championship kennel. When at the Chena Indian Village, meet the dogs and mushers of Trail Breaker Kennel up close. For tickets and more information visit riverboatdiscovery.com.
Learn What People Are Saying About Trail Breaker Kennel
We work hard to give all of our visitors a once in a lifetime experience, whether it’s a thrilling dog sled ride or an informational kennel tour. But, don’t just take our word for it. Learn what people are saying about their visit to Trail Breaker Kennel on TripAdvisor and Google Reviews.
