TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Please note that Howling Huskys operate at both Mount Hotham and Mount Baw Baw.
In the event of poor snow conditions or other unforeseen obstacles at Mount Hotham, tours may be relocated to Dinner Plain and operated on a wheeled cart. You will be advised in advance if this change is necessary. Please note that we are not responsible for any additional costs incurred due to the change in location.
If snow conditions are low at Mount Baw Baw, your tour may proceed on a four-wheeled buggy instead of a sled. This experience is still highly enjoyable and offers the same exciting interaction with our dogs.
NO SNOW, WE STILL GO!
If either of the above situations occurs, you may choose to continue your tour as planned (with the change of location or equipment), or you may reschedule to a later date within the 2025 season. If you are unwilling to participate in the adjusted tour and are unable to reschedule, payments already made will be non-refundable.
Tours may be cancelled due to unsafe weather conditions, such as high winds or fallen trees. As alpine weather is unpredictable, this decision may be made on the morning of your scheduled tour. The safety of our dogs and guests is our highest priority. If your tour is cancelled by us and you are unable to reschedule, we will issue a refund minus a 10% administrative fee to cover booking and processing costs.
Tours may run behind schedule due to trail conditions or the needs of our dogs. Please be patient - our huskies are not machines! On low-snow days, larger tours may be adjusted to smaller tours to ensure the comfort and safety of our dogs and guests.
Our trails can become muddy or slushy, and guests may be asked to exit the sled and walk a short distance to reduce strain on the dogs.
Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time to finalise payment, get seated, and receive your safety briefing prior to the tour. If you are late, you may forfeit your tour and your deposit. If you anticipate being late, please contact us so we can attempt to reschedule.
Pregnant guests are not permitted to ride, as per our insurance policy.
All participants must sign a liability form before beginning the tour. Guests under 18 years of age must have a parent or guardian sign on their behalf. Failure to meet these requirements will result in refusal of service without refund.
SAFETY
Our tours take place in alpine winter conditions, so it’s essential to dress appropriately. We strongly recommend wearing warm, layered clothing and slip-resistant footwear. Please note that UGG boots and standard gumboots without insulation are not suitable for snow conditions.
At times, you may be required to exit the sled and walk a short distance. This helps reduce strain on the dogs, particularly in slushy or muddy trail sections.
There is a strict 160kg combined weight limit per sled. If the total weight of participants exceeds this limit, you must book an additional sled (additional charges will apply). There are no exceptions to this policy, as it ensures the safety and wellbeing of our huskies.
If you book a tour for three participants in a single sled, please be aware that your guide will assess the trail conditions on the day to determine whether it’s suitable. If conditions are not appropriate for three passengers, we’ll discuss alternative arrangements with you on-site.
Please be aware that sleds may occasionally tip as a method of safely controlling the ride in certain terrain. Our guides are trained to manage this safely and will always prioritise your wellbeing.
In the event of any incident, it must be reported to staff immediately, and a written report must be completed before leaving the premises.
WHAT TO BRING
If this is your first trip to the snow, we recommend packing plenty of warm layers and always having extra socks on hand – especially for children! Staying dry and comfortable is essential to enjoying your experience with us. Waterproof snow jackets and pants, thermal layers, gloves, and beanies are all important for keeping warm, and footwear should be waterproof with good grip, as UGG boots and non-insulated gumboots are not suitable for snow conditions.
Don’t forget sunglasses or snow goggles, as snow and dirt can be kicked up by the dogs during your tour. We also suggest bringing a water bottle, snacks (especially when travelling with kids), and a camera or phone – but please be aware that batteries tend to drain quickly in the cold, so it’s a good idea to keep devices warm in your pockets.
Please also be aware that it is a legal requirement in Victoria to carry snow chains when travelling inside Alpine Resorts during the declared snow season. Make sure your vehicle is properly equipped before your journey.
Snow Chain Hire & Fitting – Mt Baw Baw
HOW TO FIND US
Mount Hotham:
We operate just outside the main village at Wire Plain, located near the Day Car Parking Area, Car Park 9. If arriving by shuttle, you can hop off at Bus Stop 12. Wire Plain is approximately 12km from Dinner Plain and is well signposted. Look out for our Howling Huskys signage and set-up area.
Dinner Plain:
You’ll find us at the entrance to Dinner Plain, to your left, located at Crisps Hut, near the playground and tennis courts. Our setup is visible from the main road and easily accessible on foot.
Mount Baw Baw:
Our team operates across from the Village Bowl, right behind the ski kiosk. From the main stone entrance of Mount Baw Baw, follow the main road through the village towards the ski lifts. Cross the bowl at the bottom of the lifts, and you’ll spot our huskies and handlers waiting to greet you.
If you’re unsure how to reach us or require more detailed travel instructions, please click the locations in blue above or please don’t hesitate to contact us prior to your tour day – we’re always happy to help you find your way!
Cancellation, DEPOSIT AND REFUND POLICY
All bookings require a deposit to confirm and secure your tour. The balance is to be paid on the day of your tour. Credit cards are accepted.
Cancellations made 14 days or more before your tour date are eligible for a refund, less a 10% administration fee, or can be refunded in full as a gift voucher to be used at a later date (valid for 3 years).
Cancellations made within 14 days of your booking will be refunded in full as a gift voucher or, if you prefer a refund to your original payment method, a 50% booking fee will apply.
Cancellations within 7 days of your booking are non-refundable unless Howling Huskys cancels the tour due to unforeseen circumstances, such as extreme weather events. In this case, a refund will be issued.
In cases of no snow, we will operate a modified tour using our wheeled cart. If you choose not to attend the modified tour and cannot reschedule, any deposit or payments made will not be refunded.
If you are redeeming a gift voucher, no deposit is required. You must provide the voucher number at the time of booking and bring the voucher with you on the day of your tour. Failure to present a valid voucher may result in being charged the full price. Gift vouchers are forfeited if you fail to show up for your tour without prior notice.
COMPLAINTS
We are committed to providing the best possible experience for all our guests. If you encounter any issues during your tour, we kindly ask that you raise them with a staff member immediately after your tour concludes. This allows us the opportunity to understand the situation and address it as quickly and fairly as possible.
If you prefer to provide feedback after your visit, or if you feel your concern was not resolved at the time, please contact us via email at chloe@howlinghuskys.com.au. We take all feedback seriously and aim to respond within 3–5 business days.
Your satisfaction and the wellbeing of our dogs and team are important to us, and we appreciate you taking the time to share your experience.