8-10km Husky Ride in the Taiga Forest and visiting the Kennel

Introduction: A Dreamy Husky Adventure in Rovaniemi

If you’ve ever pictured yourself dashing through snowy forests pulled by a team of eager huskies, this tour in Rovaniemi offers just that—plus a little more. It’s a well-rated, roughly four-and-a-half-hour experience that combines adrenaline, stunning scenery, and authentic dog sled training. The fact that you’re given the reins makes it particularly memorable—you’re not just a passenger but a true musher, holding the sled’s handlebar and steering your team through Lapland’s pristine wilderness.

What we love most about this experience is how personalized and immersive it feels. From being picked up directly from your hotel to sitting around a cozy fire afterward, everything is designed to maximize the feeling of connection—both with the dogs and the Arctic landscape. That said, warm clothing is essential; the arctic temperatures and speed of the sled mean you’ll want to be dressed in windproof gear to really enjoy the ride without discomfort.

This tour is perfect for adventure seekers over 18 who want a hands-on experience and a taste of traditional dog sledding. It offers excellent value, especially given the length of the ride and the opportunity to visit a husky kennel firsthand. Travelers looking for a genuine, active excursion rather than a passive sightseeing tour will find it hits all the right notes.

Key Points

• Authentic Mushing Experience: You get to hold the reins and steer the sled, making this a truly participatory adventure.
• Stunning Arctic Scenery: Glide through the taiga forests, experiencing Lapland’s raw winter beauty.
• Warm, Personalized Service: Included pickup, small group size (max 8), and knowledgeable guides enhance the experience.
• Expert Guides and Kennel Visit: Guides are praised for their friendliness and expertise, with plenty of insights into husky training and life.
• Good Value for Money: The 8-10 km ride, plus the kennel visit and post-ride fire, makes this a rewarding outing.
• Weather-Dependent: Cancellations due to poor weather are possible, but the tour offers options for rescheduling or full refunds.

A Complete Breakdown of the Husky Ride Experience in Rovaniemi

Getting There and Starting the Adventure

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup at 9:00 am, which is a real convenience—no worrying about finding the kennel or navigating public transport in the Arctic cold. The small group size (up to 8 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and get personalized attention from the guides.

The Visit to the Husky Kennel

Once at the kennel, you’ll meet the friendly, well-cared-for huskies, whose enthusiastic barking and wagging tails immediately set the tone. The guides, seasoned and passionate, provide a detailed safety briefing and instruction on how to handle the sled and reins. As one reviewer, Katerina, remarked, “They showed us how to drive a sled and let us do it ourselves—an incredible experience.” This hands-on approach is what makes this tour stand out.

Staff check your clothing to ensure it’s sufficiently warm and windproof, which is critical given Lapland’s temperatures and the speed you’ll be traveling. Expect to layer up, preferably with thermal underlayers and windproof outerwear, to stay comfortable during the ride.

The Husky Sled Ride

The highlight is, of course, dashing through snow-covered trails with the team of eager huskies pulling you along. The journey covers 8-10km, which the reviews consistently praise as a generous distance—long enough to soak in the scenery and enjoy the thrill of controlling the sled.

The route weaves through the crude, white-clad Lapland forest, offering breathtaking views of snow-laden trees and the crisp, quiet beauty of the Arctic wilderness. Several reviewers, such as Jancent_o, describe the trek as “beyond amazing,” with one noting that the view through the forest is stunning. The dogs’ barking and the crunch of snow under the runners create a soundtrack that feels like stepping into a fairy tale.

Post-Ride Relaxation and Learning

After the ride, you’ll gather around an open fire—a cozy moment after the adrenaline rush. The kennel guides share stories about the dogs’ lives and training, helping you connect with these working animals beyond their role as sled-pullers. Several guests have expressed appreciation for the guides’ passion and knowledge, noting that they are kind, approachable, and eager to answer questions.

Why It’s a Great Value

At $236.18 per person, considering the 4.5-hour duration and the personalized nature of the experience, it offers significant value. The included pickup, the kennel visit, the chance to drive your own sled, and the warm refreshments make for a comprehensive and memorable Arctic adventure.

What Travelers Say

Many reviewers highlight how special and well-organized the experience is. Leonardo_D called it “magical,” and Andrea_M described the dogs as “great,” emphasizing the fun of driving the sled and being involved. Others appreciated the small group size and the quality of the guides, with Sabrina_L noting, “The pickup and drop-off service is great, and the dogs are very well cared for.”

A couple of comments mention the importance of dressing warmly—some advise layering to avoid feeling cold, especially when the sled speeds up. Stanley_J pointed out that it can be a bit scary when the dogs veer off, but as long as you follow instructions and hold on tight, it’s all part of the fun.

Additional Considerations

• Weather Dependency: The tour is subject to weather conditions, which is common for outdoor Arctic activities. If canceled, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.
• Group Size & Flexibility: Small groups mean fewer crowds and more personalized attention, but it also means booking in advance is recommended.
• Age Restrictions: You must be over 18 to be the musher; children can ride as passengers in the back.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This husky sled ride is best suited for travelers who crave an active, participatory experience in nature. If you’re keen on learning about husky training and actually driving your own sled, this tour offers that in spades. It’s ideal for those who want a genuine taste of Arctic life, far from overly commercialized attractions.

The scenery and the chance to interact with friendly, well-cared-for huskies make it a genuinely joyful experience. Plus, the small-group setting and knowledgeable guides ensure you’re well looked after without feeling rushed or crowded.

While it’s important to dress appropriately and be prepared for weather variability, most reviewers agree that the overall value and authenticity outweigh the minor logistical considerations.

The Sum Up: The Perfect Arctic Adventure for Active Travelers

This 8-10 km husky sled ride in Rovaniemi offers a rare chance to participate directly in a traditional Arctic activity while surrounded by stunning natural scenery. The opportunity to drive your own sled and visit the kennel adds a layer of authenticity that many other tours lack. With consistently high ratings, friendly guides, and excellent reviews, it’s clear that this experience is a highlight for anyone visiting Lapland.

It’s particularly well-suited for those who love outdoor adventures, want to learn about husky life, and aren’t afraid of a chilly but exhilarating ride. The combination of personal engagement, beautiful scenery, and expert guidance makes it a strong contender for a top Arctic activity.

If you’re after memorable, authentic moments in Lapland and don’t mind dressing warmly, this tour is worth every penny.

FAQ

How long is the husky sled ride?
The ride covers approximately 8-10 km and lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on trail conditions and group pace.

Is there a minimum age to participate as a musher?
Yes, you need to be over 18 years old to hold the reins and drive the sled. Children can ride as passengers in the back.

What should I wear for the tour?
Warm, windproof clothing is essential. Layers, thermal underwear, and insulated gloves are recommended to stay comfortable during the ride.

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation from your hotel in Rovaniemi, making logistics simple and stress-free.

What is the maximum group size?
The experience is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and engaging adventure.

Can the tour be canceled if weather is poor?
Yes, if the weather is unsuitable, the tour may be canceled. In such cases, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is the post-ride experience like?
After the sled ride, you’ll gather around an open fire at the kennel, where guides share stories about the dogs and answer questions, adding a cultural and educational element.

Is this tour good for honeymooners or couples?
Absolutely. Several reviews mention this being a perfect activity for romantic getaways, with the added thrill of driving your own sled through beautiful winter landscapes.

This husky sled ride in Lapland combines adventure, authenticity, and natural beauty — a true Arctic highlight for those wanting to actively connect with the wilderness.