Dog Sledding in Finnish Lapland: Everything You Need to Know
The air is crisp, the landscape is covered in a thick blanket of snow, and the only sound you hear is the gentle swoosh of paws gliding across the frozen wilderness. Welcome to Finnish Lapland, where one of the most thrilling and unforgettable adventures awaits - dog sledding! In this article, we'll teach you everything you need to know about dog sledding in Finnish Lapland.
Lapland is a vast, largely remote region encompassing the northernmost parts of Finland, Sweden, Norway and the Kola Peninsula of Russia. Finnish Lapland is the area that covers the country of Finland, and is one of the most magical travel destinations in the world! Rovaniemi in Finland is the capital city of Lapland and is world-renowned as the official hometown of Santa Claus. Finnish Lapland stretches across vast areas of wilderness, including Arctic forests, fjells, and frozen lakes. It is also home to Sámi culture, natural phenomena like the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun, and a plethora of outdoor adventures, such as reindeer sledding, snowmobiling and dog sledding. To read more about this region, check out our article on what is Lapland!
Dog sledding in Finnish Lapland is one of the most authentic ways to experience its vast wilderness and unspoiled nature. Not only is it an exhilarating activity that allows you to uniquely explore snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and other Arctic landscapes that define the region, but it also connects visitors with the long-standing traditions of the Sámi people, the indigenous inhabitants of Lapland. Historically, dog sleds were used for transportation across the rugged and difficult terrain of the Arctic. Today, dog sledding in Finnish Lapland is a cultural experience which still embodies the ancient traditions of the region.
What to Expect from Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is very accessible, with different types of excursions to suit everyone! You can choose between a guided sled ride or a self-drive adventure. For the guided version, you'll sit in the sled as a passenger while the experienced musher controls and leads the dog team. This is an excellent option for families or those looking for a peaceful ride through the scenery. For the self-drive option, you'll learn how to mush your own team of dogs, adding an extra layer of exhilaration and responsibility! It is not difficult to learn as a beginner, the dogs are highly trained and know where to go. However, self-drive dog sledding does require some strength and balance, as you may need to help push the sled over tricky terrain. This option is not suitable for those with any health issues. Usually, for self-drive dog sledding, you'll take turns driving the sled and riding as a passenger, so you can experience both positions.
Upon arrival at your chosen kennels, you'll start by meeting the adorable and friendly dogs, mostly Siberian and Alaskan huskies. These huskies are born to run and love being sled dogs. You'll start by getting to know the dogs, learning the safety instructions from the guide and sometimes helping to harness and prepare the dogs. Throughout your whole excursion, the local guide will share insights about life as a husky musher in the remote Arctic.
Once you're set up in the sled, your dog sledding adventure in Finnish Lapland begins! Whether it's a self-drive or guided ride option, you are guaranteed to pass through pristine wilderness, encountering snow-draped trees, thick forests, and rolling hills. Dog sledding is an incredible way to get in touch with nature, as you feel the cold air on your face and listen to the sound of the snowy terrain.
For some dog sledding excursions, you'll stop for breaks to take in the scenic nature. Snacks, hot drinks like Finnish coffee or berry juice, or even a meal will often be served around a campfire either during the trip or back at the base. These breaks are an excellent opportunity to ask the guide about life in the Arctic and learn more about the history and traditions of dog sledding in Lapland. You may also visit the husky kennels to play, cuddle and interact with the puppies!
When to go Dog Sledding in Finnish Lapland
The dog sledding season in Finnish Lapland takes place in the winter months, typically running from November to April. The season times may vary each year depending on the snow conditions. The peak times are from December to February, with the best chances of a true Arctic winter. From mid-November to mid-January, the daylight in Finnish Lapland is very limited, which also offers excellent opportunities to witness the Northern Lights!
After April, the temperatures warm up and the snow begins to melt, putting an end to dog sledding for the year. However, some operators offer cart dog sledding in the autumn months just before the season starts, when the temperatures are still low enough for the dogs to be comfortable but before the snow has arrived. Check out this autumn husky cart ride in Rovaniemi, where you can experience dog sledding in October.
Where to go Dog Sledding in Finnish Lapland
There are several spots in Finnish Lapland offering exciting dog sledding tours. Each location has its own unique charm and provides a slightly different experience.
Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi is by far the most popular destination for dog sledding in Finnish Lapland. As the capital city of Lapland, it is a desired place to visit and is a perfect gateway to the magical Arctic Circle. Sitting at the confluence of the Kemijoki and Ounasjoki rivers, Rovaniemi is home to breathtaking nature, with thick snowy forests and the beautiful Ounasvaara fell. A dog sledding tour in Rovaniemi will include a winding trip through these incredible Arctic landscapes. There are also plenty of other winter activities available in Rovaniemi, such as a visit to Santa Claus Village, a snowmobiling excursion, or a snowshoeing tour.
Levi
Levi is Finland's most popular ski resort, and a hub for outdoor winter adventures. On a dog sledding trip in Levi, you'll experience diverse terrains, such as towering mountains, frozen lakes and dense forests. It is a great place to visit if you are a skiing enthusiast, with world-class slopes and runs for all levels, from beginners to advanced. Other unforgettable adventures in Levi include reindeer safaris, Northern Lights chases, and ice floating excursions!
Saariselkä
Located further north in Finland, Saariselkä is a peaceful resort village and a prime destination for dog sledding tours and overnight safaris. It is home to the vast Urho Kekkonen National Park and pristine wilderness. The landscapes are even more remote than other locations in Finnish Lapland, so it is a great spot if you're looking for a relaxing escape in nature. On a dog sledding trip in Saariselkä, you can experience true unspoiled nature. It is located in the Aurora Zone, making it one of the best places to view the Northern Lights. Snowmobiling and other winter experiences are also available in Saariselkä.
Inari
Inari is a remote village located close to Saariselkä. It is renowned for its deep connection to Sámi culture and proximity to Finland's largest lake, Lake Inari. As one of the northernmost regions in Finland, dog sledding in Inari offers an even more off-grid experience, where you'll travel through the Sámi heartlands and near the frozen Lake Inari. Ice fishing in Inari is another activity you could try. Fishing is one of the most popular pastimes in Finland, often seen as a form of meditation.
Best Dog Sledding Excursions in Finnish Lapland
With so many different dog sledding trips available in Finnish Lapland, it can be hard to know which one to book. Here, we've listed our top picks for the best dog sledding excursions in Finnish Lapland, to ensure you have the most magical experience!
1. Self-Drive Dog Sledding Safari and Farm Visit near Rovaniemi
This classic self-drive dog sledding safari in Rovaniemi is one of the best activities in Finnish Lapland. Welcoming adventurers of all ages, it is a perfect option for families with young children, couples, or small groups! For this excursion, you'll be picked up from the city centre of Rovaniemi and driven to the family-run husky farm in the remote countryside. You can drive the sled yourself or ride as a passenger. The terrain in this area is relatively easy, making it accessible to all levels. After your thrilling dog sledding trip through the forest, you'll enjoy hot drinks around a roaring campfire.
2. Beginner Self-drive Dog Sledding Safari in Inari near Saariselkä
For another easy ride, this beginner self-drive dog sledding safari in Inari is a great option for all ages. Driving your own team of energetic huskies, you'll experience the pristine winter wonderland of Inari and learn about Finnish Lapland. Afterwards, you'll have time to cuddle with the dogs and capture some memorable photos.
3. Santa's Village Dog Sledding Ride in Rovaniemi
For families and the young-at-heart, this Santa's Village dog sledding ride in Rovaniemi could not be more perfect! You'll meet in the extraordinary Santa's Village, where you'll prepare the huskies for this magical trip. The experienced musher will take you on a dog sledding journey through the mesmerising snowy landscapes, ending with hot berry juice and cookies. You could even combine this trip with a visit to Santa's Village, where you can meet Santa Claus all year round, send postcards from the official Santa Claus Post Office, and cross the Arctic Circle line.
4. Dog Sledding under the Northern Lights from Rovaniemi
You cannot visit Finnish Lapland in the winter without trying to look for the Northern Lights, an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon that occurs in this remote part of the world. Why not combine the search for the Aurora Borealis with a husky adventure on this dog sledding trip under the Northern Lights from Rovaniemi? Due to its position close to the Arctic Circle and its low light pollution, the wilderness area outside of the city in Rovaniemi is one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights! If you're lucky, during your 20-minute ride beneath the polar night sky, the mesmerising dance of colours will appear before you. The excursion ends with a delicious homemade meal around a campfire.
5. Intermediate Self-drive Dog Sledding Safari in Levi
For those seeking a more exhilarating experience, this intermediate self-drive dog sledding safari in Levi is an ideal option! For adventures ages 13 and up, you'll embark on a longer tour of 25-45 km (15-28 miles) through the sparse wilderness of Levi. You can take turns riding as a passenger and a driver, helping to push the sled over more hilly terrain. Transport from different spots in Levi to the kennels is also included.
Final Tips
To make the most of your dog sledding trip in Finnish Lapland, make sure the dress warmely! Some excursions include winter clothing, so please ensure you check the special terms in advance. You should always wear thermal underwear, warm layers, thermal overalls, winter boots, woollen socks, a hat, gloves and a scarf. The Finnish have a saying, 'there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing!' Check out our article for more tips on how you should dress for Arctic conditions in Lapland.
Dog sledding is a popular, once-in-a-lifetime experience, so the tours are on the pricier side for things to do in Finnish Lapland. Make sure you budget well for your trip and don't forget to make your reservation in advance, some excursions are fully booked even months beforehand! It is expensive and takes some planning, but the adventure is definitely worth it. You should also be prepared for last-minute cancellations, due to the welfare of the dogs or extreme weather conditions.
Dog sledding in Finnish Lapland is more than just a fun winter activity - it’s an opportunity to connect with the Arctic wilderness in a way that few other activities can offer. The bond between musher and husky team, the breathtaking landscapes, and the thrill of the ride make it a truly unforgettable adventure. Whether you're gliding through a snow-covered forest or watching the Northern Lights from the back of a sled, dog sledding is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime!