Thousands of letters are mailed to the man in the big red suit every Christmas, but do you ever wonder where they go? Wonder no more after you and Santa’s Little Helper visit the Alaskan town of North Pole. Located 20 minutes from Fairbanks, this holiday-themed village allows you and your pup to view the World’s Largest Santa outside the Santa Claus House. Next door to St. Nick’s workshop, you’ll find Antler Academy, where your fur child can get a good look at the resident reindeer from a safe distance. Take a walk through town along candy cane painted streets, stop for a photo op on Santa’s sleigh, and, if Fido has been a good boy this year, he may even get to visit with Kris Kringle himself! There are no admission fees to tour this winter wonderland. When you are ready to leave, ask one of the elves to point you in the direction of the North Pole Dog Park, where your pup can have some off-leash fun.

Keep in the holiday spirit with a stay at the Hotel North Pole, where a crackling fire and Christmas decorations help spread the cheer to two- and four-legged guests. Fido is welcome in ground-floor rooms, providing easy access for early-morning and late-night walks. The hotel is just steps away from the Santa Claus House and the North Pole Plaza, where you’ll find convenient shops and restaurants.

Bring Fido to stay in the wilds of Alaska at Wrangell - St. Elias National Park & Preserve Backcountry Cabins. Most of these rustic cabins were old mining, trapping, or hunting cabins that are now owned by the National Park Service. They are located in remote areas only accessible by plane or air taxi, and offer a true escape into nature. Cabins have a wood stove and bunk beds but do not feature running water or plumbing, so be prepared to “ruff” it. Bring your pup’s hiking gear and explore the pet-friendly trails at Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, one of only 23 World Heritage Sites in the United States. If you step outside at night, you might even spot the hypnotic green wonders of the aurora borealis that light up the valley’s night sky during January and February.

Backcountry Cabins are available on a first-come, first-served basis, except the four requiring reservations. You should submit reservation requests at least two weeks in advance of your desired dates. The lodging accommodations are very popular from May through September, so book early if you want to visit during these months.

Ready for a Road Trip?

If this Ruff Guide to Alaska preview left your dog drooling for more, we hope you check out our new book - Ruff Guide to the United States. Remember to use discount code ALASKA to save 50% on your copy. Happy Travels!