Introductory Driving Lesson (1 hour) - SAINT FRANCOIS DE SALES
Take the reins of a team of Nordic sled dogs and enjoy an hour of authentic dog sledding on the groomed trails of Les Bauges, guided by a passionate musher in the wild setting of Saint François de Sales
- 1.5H
- Beginner
Description
After an introduction to the dogs and the activity, you’ll take your place behind the sled and learn how to drive it.
The musher will guide you throughout the session: the basics of steering, voice commands, maintaining balance, and handling turns. You’ll also discuss sled dogs, life in the pack, and the musher’s profession. Interaction with the dogs is planned and permitted during the activity.
A 1.5-hour experience that transforms you into a real musher for a morning or an afternoon.
- 1.5H
- Beginner
To participate, you must be mobile, able to sit down and stand up on your own, and not be pregnant.
Driving takes place exclusively on groomed trails: a safe environment, ideal for learning and improving without stress.
Your car must be equipped with snow tires and/or chains, as snow, cold, and fog are normal winter conditions: no late arrivals or absences will be accepted.
Dog Sledding Activity Walkthrough
Welcome for participants
Briefing
Driving
End of the session
Why choose Takamaka ?
With a 30-minute briefing and 1 hour of driving, this introductory session offers much more than just a simple outing: you’ll actually learn how to drive your own sled.
At the helm of your team, you’ll be alone with your dogs and in charge of your team, from harnessing them to the return trip. It’s an immersive and authentic experience where you progress step by step.
The ride takes place on a groomed trail in the Bauges Mountains, in Saint-François-de-Sales: a safe, calm environment that’s ideal for discovering dog sledding with complete confidence.
FAQ
What's the difference between this and the 1-hour sleigh ride in Saint François de Sales?
During the sleigh ride, you’ll be comfortably seated in the sleigh as a passenger, and the musher will drive for you.
During the introductory driving session, you’ll be standing at the reins of your own team. Two complementary experiences at the same location: one for enjoying the ride, the other for taking the reins.
At what age can you start taking introductory driving lessons ?
The introductory sledding experience is open to anyone aged 12 and older. You just need to be in average physical condition—you don’t have to be an athlete. However, the maximum weight limit is 90 kg per sled, which means each participant rides alone on their sled.
What should you wear when driving ?
Dress warmly: a full set of ski gear (jacket, ski pants), warm gloves, a hat, and sunglasses. Warm shoes suitable for snow are essential, as you’ll be standing on the sled for the entire session.
Can there be passengers in my sled during the introductory driving lesson?
No, for safety and comfort reasons, beginner sleds are limited to one person.
Driving requires balance, maneuvering, and good control of the sled.
Passengers could hinder progress and compromise safety.
Each participant therefore drives their own sled for the best possible experience.
