Meltosjärvi: Self Driving Husky Tour – Lake Trail Experience

If you’re dreaming of a snowy, husky-filled adventure in Lapland, the Meltosjärvi Self-Driving Husky Tour offers a delightful mix of excitement, stunning scenery, and heartwarming stories. This 30-minute trip is designed for anyone eager to experience the thrill of mushing without needing prior experience, set against the peaceful backdrop of Meltosjärvi’s icy lakeside.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is how it combines the joy of driving your own team of happy sled dogs with meaningful interactions like visiting the kennel and relaxing by a campfire with warm drinks. It’s a taste of authentic arctic life wrapped into a compact, family-friendly experience.

A possible consideration is that the tour’s duration is quite short—just half an hour—which might leave some wishing for a longer ride. Also, travelers should note that warm footwear and overalls are not included, so packing appropriately is essential for staying warm.

This tour is ideal for families, dog lovers, and anyone wanting a memorable, ethical introduction to husky sledding in a breathtaking setting. It’s perfect for those who value the story behind the dogs and seeking a gentle adventure in Lapland’s tranquil winter landscape.

Key Points

• Short and Sweet: A 30-minute lakeside sled ride offers a perfect introduction to husky mushing.
• Ethical Focus: The kennel visit highlights the care and second chances of the dogs, making it a more compassionate experience.
• All Ages Welcome: No previous experience needed, making it accessible for children and adults alike.
• Authentic Setting: Surrounded by the serene beauty of Meltosjärvi’s icy scenery, with opportunities for photos and interaction.
• Comfort and Convenience: Includes warm drinks and a campfire, although you need to bring your own warm clothes.
• Educational Element: Guides share inspiring stories about the dogs’ backgrounds and training, adding depth to the experience.

Starting Point: Matara Creek Kennel and Melodic Scenery

The adventure begins at the Matara Creek Kennel, located in the quiet village of Meltosjärvi. It’s about an hour’s scenic drive from Rovaniemi, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself distracted by the snowy forests or frozen lakes along the way. Upon arrival, you immediately sense the calm of Lapland’s winter. This is no bustling tourist trap but a well-cared-for operation dedicated to the well-being of its dogs.

The kennel is a hub of activity, with a mix of rehomed working dogs who’ve found a new purpose. Many of these huskies have been rescued, which makes the experience not just fun but also emotionally meaningful. The staff and guides, including knowledgeable locals, are approachable and eager to share stories about how these dogs came to live at the kennel and how they’re trained.

The Kennel Visit: Meet the Canine Stars

One of the tour’s standout features is the kennel visit, where you get to see firsthand the environment that keeps these energetic dogs happy and healthy. Guides will introduce you to the dogs, sharing their individual stories—some are former sled dogs looking for a quieter life, others were rehomed from other working kennels.

You’ll learn about how the team adapts routines to suit each dog’s needs and how they ensure their physical and mental health. Several reviews mention the genuine care the staff shows, emphasizing that these dogs are not just props for travelers but living beings with a second chance.

This part of the experience is especially appreciated by animal lovers, as it adds a layer of authenticity and compassion often missing from more commercial rides. It also provides excellent photo opportunities—pups playing or resting, eager eyes peering out from their doghouses, and the serene snow-covered landscape in the background.

The Sled Ride: Self-Drive or Guided

The core of the tour is the 30-minute lakeside sled ride along Meltosjärvi’s quiet trails. You have the option to drive your own team or sit back with an experienced musher leading the way—something that appeals to both adventure seekers and those preferring a more relaxed experience.

If you choose to drive, guides give clear instructions and safety tips—important since this is your team of huskies, and you want to ensure both your safety and theirs. The dogs are described as happy and well-cared-for, with reviews mentioning their “joyful energy” and “friendly manner”, which makes the ride even more enjoyable.

During the ride, you’ll be surrounded by the calm, pristine beauty of Lapland’s winter landscape. The lakeside trail offers spectacular views of Meltosjärvi’s frozen surface and snow-laden trees—perfect for photos and peaceful reflection. The sled glides quietly through the snow, giving you a sense of connection with these hardworking animals and the environment they thrive in.

Post-Ride Relaxation: Warm Drinks and Campfire

After the ride, it’s time to relax. The tour includes a visit to the musher’s camp, where you’ll find a cozy campfire. Here, you can enjoy a hot drink and a small snack—a welcome warm-up after being outside in the chilly air. Many reviews mention how much they appreciated this part, noting the friendly atmosphere and the chance to chat with guides about the dogs and life in Lapland.

This is also the moment to interact more with the dogs—petting, playing, or even cuddling puppies if available. It’s a heartwarming conclusion to your adventure and a great opportunity to capture memorable photos with the dogs.

Practicalities: What to Know and Pack

Since the tour doesn’t include overalls or warm footwear, travelers should come prepared with outdoor clothing, hats, gloves, and warm shoes. The experience is suited for all ages, but the cold can be intense, especially during winter months.

The tour’s price reflects its focus on ethical practices and genuine interaction—it’s not just a ride but a meaningful experience. The 30-minute duration is ideal for those with limited time or families seeking a quick but authentic taste of husky sledding.

For safety reasons, loose scarves, dangling bags, pets, alcohol, and drugs are not permitted on the sleds. As with many outdoor activities in Lapland, weather considerations can cause cancellations—so flexible booking options, like free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, are a smart choice.

Overall Value and Impression

While a half-hour ride might seem brief, the experience is thoughtfully designed to maximize authenticity, education, and connection with the dogs. The inclusion of the kennel visit and campfire rounds out the experience, making it feel less like a tourist trap and more like a genuine window into Lapland’s sled dog culture.

The value here lies not only in the scenic ride but also in the ethical approach and the stories you’ll hear from guides who genuinely care about their animals. For families, it offers an accessible way to introduce children to sledding and animal care. For animal lovers and those seeking a responsible adventure, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This tour is perfect for those new to husky sledding but eager to experience it in an authentic, caring environment. It’s suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a gentle, scenic adventure that emphasizes animal welfare. If you’re interested in stories behind the dogs and a peaceful lakeside setting, this experience offers more than just a ride—it’s a heartfelt look into Lapland’s sled dog life.

Those seeking a longer or more intense ride may need to look elsewhere, but for a brief, meaningful introduction to mushing, few experiences match this one in terms of authenticity and compassion.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as there’s no previous experience needed and the trip is designed to be accessible for all ages, making it a family-friendly activity. Just ensure children are dressed warmly and are comfortable being outdoors.

Do I need to bring my own warm clothes?
While warm footwear and overalls are not included, travelers should bring hats, gloves, outdoor clothing, and warm shoes to stay comfortable during the outdoor segments.

How long does the sled ride last?
The ride itself is approximately 30 minutes, offering enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Can I drive my own team?
Yes, you can choose to self-drive the husky team, with guidance provided to ensure safety and enjoyment.

What is included in the experience?
The tour includes the sled ride, a visit to the kennel, a talk about the dogs by the guide, and warm drinks with a snack around the campfire.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds flexibility especially in unpredictable weather conditions.

This Meltosjärvi husky tour strikes a nice balance between adventure and ethics, making it a memorable part of any Lapland trip. Whether you’re after stunning views, a heartwarming story, or just a fun outdoor activity, it’s worth considering—just be sure to come prepared for the chilly outdoor environment.