8-10km Husky Ride in the Taiga Forest & Visiting the Kennel

A Thrilling Husky Adventure in Lapland’s Taiga Forest: An Honest Review

A 8-10 km husky sled ride in Lapland offers more than just a quick thrill—it’s a genuine peek into the lifestyles of dog mushers and the stark beauty of the Arctic wilderness. This experience combines a hands-on sled drive with an authentic visit to a husky kennel, making it an excellent choice for adventure seekers and animal lovers alike.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the chance to actually be the driver—holding the reins, feeling the raw power of the dogs pulling the sled, and gaining a real sense of what it takes to mush through snow-covered forests. That personal involvement significantly elevates the experience, making it far more memorable than a simple ride.

One aspect to consider is the cold—arctic temperatures around -25°C demand warm, layered clothing and sturdy footwear. While the tour provides some guidance, travelers should come prepared for the weather to fully enjoy the ride without discomfort.

This experience suits those craving authentic, active adventures in Finland’s wilderness—particularly those who want to connect with the environment and the animals that thrive there. If you’re after a mix of adrenaline, culture, and natural beauty, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Authentic Hands-On Experience: You’ll get to lead the sled, not just sit as a passenger, offering a true-musher feeling.
• Beautiful Arctic Setting: The journey takes you through the pristine taiga forests, providing stunning winter scenery.
• Cultural Insights: Mushers share stories about their life and training, adding depth to the experience.
• Practical Preparation: Warm, layered clothing and sturdy shoes are essential for comfort and safety.
• Value for Money: The tour combines a 4-hour experience, including a 1-hour self-driven sled ride, with a kennel visit and storytelling.
• Group Size & Flexibility: You’re picked up from your hotel in Rovaniemi, with options for flexible bookings and cancellations.

Experience Breakdown

Pickup & Transport

The adventure begins with a convenient pickup from your Rovaniemi accommodation. The minivan ride to the husky kennel usually takes around an hour, giving you some time to soak in the wintery landscape and perhaps share excitement with fellow travelers. This setup means you avoid the hassle of organizing transportation and arrive ready to jump into the action.

Kennel Visit & Introduction

Once at the kennel, the mushers welcome guests with warmth and stories. We loved the way they shared insights into how they live and train the dogs, giving us a glimpse into the demanding but rewarding life of a musher. They check your clothing to ensure you’re warm enough—because, trust us, in -25°C temperatures, keeping heat in is crucial. Expect to hear plenty of dog barking as the team eagerly awaits their turn to pull the sled.

The Sled Ride: Driving & Riding

The core of this tour is the 4-hour program, which includes a 1-hour self-driven sled ride covering about 10 kilometers. If you’re lucky, you’ll be assigned a sled to drive—most guests find this to be the highlight. The guide and team will instruct you on how to lead the dogs safely, which is straightforward but requires attentiveness.

One reviewer notes, “It was so much fun to hold the reins and feel the power of the dogs pulling us through the snow. The instructions were clear, and I never felt overwhelmed.” This hands-on approach is perfect for those wanting more than just a scenic ride.

The Forest Trail

Traveling through the Lapland taiga, you’ll slide past snow-laden trees, with the dogs enthusiastically barking and pulling you along. The silence of the snow-covered forest, broken only by the dogs’ joyful yelps, creates a magical atmosphere. Expect to experience the sound of barking replacing bells, which adds a genuine rustic charm.

Post-Ride & Fireside Stories

After the ride, you’ll gather around an open fire. The mushers love sharing stories about the dogs and their training routines, giving a personal touch that elevates this tour beyond a simple outdoor activity. Some guests appreciated the opportunity to ask questions and learn about sled dog life—definitely a highlight for animal enthusiasts.

Detailed Itinerary & What to Expect

Pick-Up & Travel

Expect a seamless hotel pick-up in Rovaniemi, with a comfortable minivan taking you through scenic winter landscapes. The entire experience lasts around five and a half hours, making it a full yet manageable day.

The Kennel & Preparation

At the kennel, you’ll be introduced to the team of dogs, with a briefing on sled safety. The staff rigorously check your clothing—think windproof, insulated layers, warm shoes, and hats. Some reviews mention the importance of dressing “warmly in layers” because mornings and afternoons can dip well below freezing.

Sled Driving

You’ll be given the opportunity to drive your own sled, which most guests find exhilarating. Everyone is instructed on how to lead the dogs safely—important because controlling a team of lively huskies over icy terrain isn’t trivial. The guide remains nearby for safety and tips.

The Trail & Scenery

Traveling through the forests, you’ll witness Lapland’s winter wonderland: snow-covered pines, frozen streams, and the expansive calm of the Arctic wilderness. The trail is designed for a 10 km ride, which typically takes about an hour of driving time—long enough to thoroughly enjoy the experience without fatigue.

Post-Ride Reflection & Fire

The warmth of the open fire contrasts beautifully with the icy environment. This is where stories flow, and you can learn more about the dogs’ personalities, training routines, and the mushers’ lives. Guests often comment on the authenticity of these stories and the genuine warmth of the hosts.

The Value of This Husky Tour

At a price of $294 per person, this tour combines a memorable outdoor adventure with cultural insights. The inclusion of warm drinks and local treats adds a cozy touch after the ride. While food isn’t included, the experience’s focus on hands-on sled driving, the scenery, and musher stories makes it worth the cost—especially for those wanting a genuine Arctic experience.

Compared to other tours, this one’s strength lies in its interactive element—you’re not just watching huskies pull a sled but actively participating as the musher. This makes it suitable for those wanting to connect with the environment and the dogs, rather than just observe.

Practical Considerations

• Dress warmly in layers, with a hat, warm shoes, and windproof outerwear.
• The tour is suitable for travelers over 18, but children over 5 can join as passengers.
• Not suitable for pregnant women or those with allergies to animals.
• The cancellation policy allows you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This husky sled experience is perfect for adventure lovers eager for a hands-on activity in Lapland’s wilderness. It’s ideal if you want to drive your own sled rather than just ride along, and if you appreciate learning about the breeds and lives of working dogs. Families with older children, animal enthusiasts, and those looking for a more authentic Arctic experience will find it especially rewarding.

However, travelers who aren’t comfortable with cold weather or who prefer a more relaxed, scenic ride may want to consider other options. The activity’s physical and weather demands mean it’s best suited for those prepared for winter’s chill.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Rovaniemi, a 4-hour program with a 1-hour self-driven sled ride covering about 10 km, instruction on sled leading, warm drinks, local treats, and stories from mushers.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, a minivan will pick you up from your hotel in Rovaniemi and take you to the kennel, then back at the end of the tour.

How long does the entire tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 5.5 hours, including pickup, travel, the sled ride, and the storytelling session.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, including a hat and warm shoes. The tour checks your clothing to ensure it’s suitable for -25°C temperatures. Windproof outerwear is highly recommended.

Can I drive the sled myself?
Yes, you are assigned a sled to drive, and you’ll be instructed on how to lead the dogs safely. Many guests find this the highlight.

Is this suitable for children?
Children over 5 years old can participate as passengers, but the main activity is geared towards adults or older children capable of handling winter conditions.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Are animals involved in the experience?
Absolutely—dogs are the core of this tour. Mushers share their training routines, and guests get to see the dogs’ personalities firsthand.

What makes this tour stand out?
The opportunity to drive your own sled and the authentic stories from mushers make it more engaging and memorable than a simple scenic ride.

Is the experience worth the cost?
Given the hands-on nature, scenic setting, and cultural insights, many find the $294 price point fair value, especially since it includes a full 4-hour program.

Final Thoughts

This husky sled tour offers a compelling mixture of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. The chance to drive your own team through the snowy forests makes it a standout activity for those seeking a genuine connection to Lapland’s wilderness. The stories from mushers add a personal, authentic touch that elevates the experience beyond just a scenic ride.

While the weather demands proper preparation, the effort pays off with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the Arctic environment and its working dogs. It’s best suited for active travelers, animal lovers, and anyone eager to do more than just observe—they’ll love the feeling of pulling through the snow, surrounded by the quiet beauty of Lapland.

If you’re looking to truly engage with the landscape and the animals that call it home, this tour is a fantastic choice. Just make sure you’re dressed appropriately, and be ready for a fun, chilly adventure that leaves you with stories to tell for years to come.