A great many people have the idea of sledding being connected to large teams of dogs and expensive equipment and a whole lot of training.

In fact to experience the pleasure of outdoor recreation you really don't need much, i.e. - two eager dogs, a light basket sled, harness, anchor (not a ship's) and some lines can lead you into whole new world of possibilities.

Of course you'll have to learn and teach your dogs a few directional commands, such as ''right'' (gee) "left" (haw) and "stop" (whoa)-very important!   Even though your sled is equipped with a brake and you have an anchor at your disposal.

You must remember to dress appropriately according to the weather conditions and think of safety-your own and your dogs too!  Don't forget, on the ascent of any hill, you must kick with one foot or get off (don't let go though!) and run and push to help the dogs (guess who is going to get fit?).

There are many books on the subject and a lot of suppliers of proper equipment.

Remember also dehydration even in the winter can cause a lot of problems and do not forget trail etiquette-the trails are for everyone to enjoy.

Dog sledding is one of the fastest growing sports today. Its popularity has been spurred on by the last great race, The Idiatrod, which has received national media attention to a greater degree every year.

The beautiful, smiling, eager sled dogs have won the hearts of many people. The appeal of dog sledding is universal and it's an experience that leaves you with a desire to come back and do it all over again.   For some, it even becomes an obsession and eventually leads to pursuing it more seriously.