Rovaniemi: Autumn Husky Ride on Wheels

Rovaniemi: Autumn Husky Ride on Wheels offers a unique way to connect with the Arctic’s favorite working dogs without the winter snow. Situated in Lapland, Finland, this tour combines the thrill of guiding your own team of huskies in a wheeled cart through vibrant autumn landscapes. With a duration of about two hours, including transfers, it’s an accessible and engaging adventure suited for those who want a taste of Arctic life in a less extreme season.

What we love about this experience is the chance to take command of your own husky team—a rare opportunity that adds a personal touch to the adventure. Plus, the hot berry juice and stories about sled dogs offered after the ride make it feel both cozy and educational. That said, one consideration is that the tour is not suitable for children under 4 or pregnant women, so it’s best for active families or curious adults. If you’re interested in animals, nature, and authentic local stories, this tour is a solid pick.

This experience works especially well for travelers who prefer balanced outdoor activity with comfort—no need for snow gear, just warm clothing. It’s also perfect for those who want a meaningful connection with huskies without the winter cold or requiring advanced riding skills. If you’re keen on learning about Lapland’s wildlife and landscapes in a relaxed setting, this tour ticks those boxes.

Key Points

• Scenic autumn landscapes: Enjoy vibrant Finnish forests and fields as the season shifts.
• Interactive husky experience: Guide your own team of huskies in a wheeled cart, a rare chance for personal involvement.
• Educational stories and treats: Post-ride, learn fascinating facts about sled dogs while sipping hot berry juice.
• Inclusive transfers: Pickup and drop-off included from Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village.
• Weather-dependent: Rides are only available when temperatures are 10°C or colder, ensuring the safety and well-being of the huskies.
• Family-friendly but limited: Not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.

Taking part in the Autumn Husky Ride on Wheels is a delightful way to see Lapland beyond the usual winter wonderland. The tour, guided in English, usually lasts about two hours, including transfers, making it a manageable outing whether you’re visiting for a day or more. From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice how the tour balances adventure, education, and comfort.

You’ll meet your guide, who will teach you how to steer a sled dog cart—a process that involves simple commands and teamwork, making it accessible even if you’ve never handled such a vehicle. The huskies, known for their power and friendliness, are eager to show what they can do, even on wheeled carts, which are used here as an alternative to traditional snow sleds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Pickup and Transfer

Your day begins with pickup from either Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village, both convenient locations. The exact pickup time will be confirmed via email from Apukka Resort, so keep an eye out for that message to ensure you’re ready on time. The drive to Apukka Resort is just a few minutes, and during this short ride, you’ll get a glimpse of the surrounding autumn scenery.

Arrival at the Husky Farm

Once at the farm, you’ll find a welcoming environment where the huskies are eager—probably jumping around with excitement. The team here emphasizes the dogs’ wellbeing: rides are only conducted when temperatures are at or below 10°C, ensuring the animals are comfortable and healthy.

The Cart Ride

After a safety briefing and instructions on how to guide the dog-powered cart, you’ll set off with your own team. The 3 km ride takes you through Lapland’s fields and forests, showcasing the rich fall colors—reds, oranges, and yellows—against a backdrop of evergreens. The scenery is peaceful yet invigorating, with the crisp autumn air filling your lungs.

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Interaction & Refreshments

Post-ride, everyone gets the chance to pet the huskies, a highlight for many travelers. You’ll also enjoy hot berry juice and light snacks, perfect for warming up and chatting about the dogs’ lives. The stories shared by guides add a personal touch, giving insights into the training, history, and daily routines of Arctic sled dogs.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Compared to winter husky rides, this experience offers a more relaxed, less demanding way to enjoy the appeal of sled dogs. It’s especially good if you’re traveling outside the snow season but still want an active outdoor adventure. The inclusion of transfers, snacks, and petting means you get a complete package without hidden costs.

The small group setting and guided experience ensure you feel engaged and safe, making it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a meaningful encounter with Lapland’s canine athletes without the extreme cold or snow.

Authenticity and Quality

Based on 18 reviews, the tour has a stellar rating of 4.9 out of 5, reflecting high customer satisfaction. Reviewers mention the friendly guides, the beautiful autumn scenery, and the value of guiding your own husky team. One comment notes, “We loved the way the guide explained how to steer and the chance to pet the dogs after.” The experience has a genuine, authentic feel, not overly commercialized, which adds to its appeal.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress warmly in weather-appropriate clothing—layering is advisable since you’ll be outdoors for some time.
• Book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.
• Prepare for transfers: Confirm pickup times by checking your email from Apukka Resort.
• Children over 4 years will enjoy this more, but younger kids are not permitted.
• Not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments—the tour involves guiding a wheeled cart and walking to the farm.

Final Thoughts

This Autumn Husky Ride on Wheels offers an engaging, family-friendly introduction to Lapland’s sled dog culture in a season when the landscape is bursting with color. It’s an opportunity to connect with the dogs, learn about their lives, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Arctic in a comfortable, guided setting.

For those who want a less winter-centric experience, or prefer outdoor activity without the snow, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially good for travelers who value authentic stories, personal interaction with the huskies, and scenic views. If you’re after an experience that combines adventure, education, and enjoyment, this is worth considering.

Is the husky ride suitable for children?
Children over 4 years old are permitted to join, but younger children and infants are not suitable due to safety and the physical nature of guiding the cart.

What should I wear for the tour?
Bring warm, weather-appropriate clothing. Layers are helpful since you’ll be outside and might need to adjust your clothing based on the temperature.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transfers from Rovaniemi city center or Santa Claus Village are included, but you must be punctual as refunds are not given if you miss your pickup.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience, including transfers, is approximately two hours; the actual husky cart ride is around 3 km.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
It’s suitable when the temperature is 10°C or colder, which in autumn typically occurs from late September to early November.

Are the huskies well cared for?
Absolutely. The tour emphasizes the dogs’ wellbeing, and rides are only conducted when conditions are appropriate.

Is this experience good for solo travelers?
Yes, guided in small groups, solo travelers will find plenty of opportunity to engage and meet others during the tour.

What makes this tour special compared to winter sled rides?
The focus here is on autumn scenery and wheeled cart rides, making it accessible and enjoyable even without snow, while still offering the chance to interact closely with the huskies.

Can I request special dietary options?
Yes, vegetarian, gluten-free, or other special diets are available upon request, ensuring everyone stays warm and happy.

In summary, the Rovaniemi: Autumn Husky Ride on Wheels offers a memorable, authentic chance to enjoy Lapland’s wilderness, meet its most beloved animals, and learn stories that bring the Arctic to life—all in a comfortable, scenic setting. It’s perfect for those seeking a genuine Arctic experience without the winter chill or snow.

You can check availability for your dates here: