A Day with Siberian Huskies: Greyson’s Girl Scout Troop Dog Sledding Adventure
This weekend, Greyson and her Girl Scout troop headed out for an unforgettable adventure at the North Central Railroad Trail inside Gunpowder Falls State Park. The girls were there to experience something most of them had never seen before—dog sledding with the incredible team from Maryland Dog Sled Adventures. We highly recommend the Maryland Dog Sled Adventure team. They are truly passionate about the dogs and teaching others about them as well.
When we arrived, the excitement was immediate. A team of beautiful huskies waited patiently beside the sled, their thick coats and bright eyes hinting at the energy they were ready to unleash on the trail.
Before anyone touched the dogs, the instructor gathered the girls together and began explaining something important: every sled dog has its own personality.
Some were calm and observant.
Some were eager and playful.
Others were focused and ready to run.
The girls learned how to safely approach the dogs, how to read their body language, and how to respectfully greet them before reaching out to pet them. Watching the girls slowly gain confidence as they interacted with the dogs was one of the most special parts of the day.
Greyson was fascinated. She watched carefully, taking everything in before stepping forward to meet one of the huskies. Soon she was smiling and gently reaching out, discovering just how soft a working sled dog’s fur can be.
Next, the girls learned about the equipment that makes dog sledding possible. The instructor showed them the harnesses used to connect the dogs to the sled and explained how each harness helps the dogs work together as a team. Then came the part the girls had been waiting for. One by one, they took turns helping harness the dogs themselves. It was amazing to watch them take on the responsibility, carefully preparing the dogs for their run.
With the team ready, it was time for the sled rides.
Each girl had a turn riding on the sled while the huskies pulled them along the trail. The excitement in the air was contagious. The girls cheered each other on, laughing and celebrating every ride as the dogs raced forward with incredible strength and enthusiasm.
After everyone had their chance on the sled, the group gathered again to learn about how mushers communicate with their dogs. The instructor explained the commands used to guide the team and how much trust and teamwork exist between the dogs and their musher.
But one of the most surprising lessons of the day came during feeding time.
The girls learned that sled dogs don’t all eat the same food. Each dog has its own special diet based on its age, weight, gender, and activity level. Some even follow veterinary-approved nutrition plans for specific health needs.
Helping feed the dogs became another hands-on learning moment that the girls absolutely loved.
To finish the experience, the instructor held a fun quiz to see what everyone had learned during the adventure. The girls did an amazing job, and by the end of the day they proudly earned two Girl Scout brownie patches for their participation.
No winter adventure is complete without a warm treat, the day ended with hot cocoa and brownies for everyone. Greyson and the rest of the girls gathered together, sipping cocoa and sharing stories about their sled rides. It was the kind of day that reminds you how powerful simple experiences can be.
- Learning about animals.
- Being outdoors.
- Trying something new.
- Encouraging each other.
For Greyson, moments like this are especially meaningful. They provide opportunities to explore the world, build confidence, and connect with others through shared experiences.
For all of us watching, it was a reminder that sometimes the best memories begin with curiosity, a little courage, and a team of enthusiastic huskies ready to run.
It was truly an amazing day for the troop—and one we won’t soon forget.
