Running with the Pack, 5km Husky Ride and a Kennel Tour

Running with the Pack, 5km Husky Ride and a Kennel Tour in Lapland, Finland, offers an immersive encounter with the world of sled dogs. Priced at $192 per person, this experience combines a thrilling huskiesled ride with an educational tour of a modern Husky kennel, guided by seasoned mushers. The ride lasts about 5 kilometers, making it an ideal activity whether you’re visiting with family or traveling solo.

What we love most is how genuine and hands-on this experience feels. First, you get to sit in a sled driven by an expert musher, feeling the crisp Arctic air as you glide through snow-covered forests. Second, the modern kennel tour offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how these incredible working dogs are cared for and trained—something that adds depth beyond just the thrill of the ride.

One thing to consider is the need to bring your own winter clothing, as the tour doesn’t include outerwear. Also, since seating arrangements have a few quirks—only singles sharing with others outside your party—you might want to plan accordingly if you’re traveling in a larger group.

This tour suits adventurous families, dog enthusiasts, and those craving an authentic Arctic activity. If you’re eager to learn about the life of sled dogs while enjoying a scenic ride, this experience hits the sweet spot of fun and education.

Key Points

• Authentic Husky Experience: Sit in a sled and enjoy a 5km ride with a professional musher.
• Behind-the-Scenes Tour: Learn about husky training, care, and life at a modern kennel.
• Comfort and Warmth: After the ride, warm up with hot juice and cookies.
• Practical Details: No winter clothing included, so dress warmly.
• Group Dynamics: Only single travelers share sleds with others outside their party.
• Location: Conveniently includes transfers from Santa Claus Village and city center hotels.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour conveniently includes transfers from Santa Claus Village, Hostel Cafe Koti, and other central locations in Rovaniemi. If you’re staying in the city or at Santa Claus Village, you won’t need to worry about arranging your own transport, which simplifies planning. The pickup times are coordinated to ensure you get a full experience without feeling rushed. If you prefer to come with your own transfer, that’s also an option, but be sure to confirm the arrangements.

The Kennel Visit and What You’ll Learn

Once at the kennel, you’ll meet the pack of lively huskies—many of which are bred for these working roles. The tour is led by experienced mushers who will introduce you to each dog’s personality, training routines, and daily life at the kennel. One reviewer mentions, “We loved the way they explained how the dogs live and train,” which helps you appreciate the incredible bond between mushers and their dogs.

This part of the experience is particularly valuable for dog lovers or families with children interested in animals and outdoor life. It’s not just a quick photo op but an informative session that sheds light on the dogs’ lifestyle. You’ll hear about their training, diet, and how they are prepared for sledding adventures, giving you a genuine understanding of what it takes to be a sled dog.

The 5km Sled Ride

The highlight, of course, is the sled ride, which lasts approximately 5 kilometers. The sled is driven by a seasoned musher—a skillful guide who manages the team through the forest trails, offering commentary along the way. You can expect to feel the thrill of gliding over snow, with panoramic views of Lapland’s winter landscape.

Since seating arrangements only allow single travelers to share sleds with others outside their group, you might find yourself sharing a sled with a stranger if you’re traveling alone. If privacy is a concern, booking as a group or a family might be preferable.

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Comfort and Refreshments

Post-ride, the tour offers a cozy moment with hot juice and cookies, a perfect way to warm up and share your experience with fellow travelers. This small but thoughtful touch creates a more communal atmosphere, and many reviews mention the enjoyment of these modest refreshments after braving the cold.

What to Dress and Bring

The tour specifies that winter clothing is not included, so packing your own warm layers is essential. Think thermal underwear, insulated jackets, hats, gloves, and snow goggles if you have them. The sleds come with blankets, which help you stay warm during the ride, but dressing appropriately ensures you stay comfortable throughout.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The group size tends to be small, making for a more intimate experience. However, the seating arrangement means only singles will be paired with strangers on the sled. Reviews suggest this isn’t a major issue, but it’s worth noting for those who prefer more privacy.

Pricing and Value

At $192 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience—a scenic sled ride, an educational kennel visit, and warm refreshments. Considering the cost of equipment rental, guides, and the unique opportunity to be so close to sled dogs in their environment, the price is reasonable. It’s especially valuable for those who want more than just a quick ride, as this experience emphasizes understanding and connection with the dogs and their world.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the absence of provided winter clothing, which might catch some travelers unprepared if they haven’t packed suitably. Also, those who dislike sharing sleds with strangers might find the seating arrangement less ideal. But for most, these are minor inconveniences compared to the overall authenticity and enjoyment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for families, dog lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts eager for a hands-on Arctic adventure. It’s also great for travelers who want a balanced mix of scenic riding and educational insight—not just a thrill ride, but a chance to learn about sled dogs and their vital role in Lapland.

Final Thoughts

The Running with the Pack experience in Lapland offers a genuine glimpse into the world of sled dogs while providing a fun and scenic ride through winter wonderland landscapes. The combination of a sled ride and kennel tour ensures you’re not just passive observers but participants in the daily life of these working dogs.

While you’ll need to bring your own warm clothes, the tour’s inclusions of hot drinks and cookies create a cozy balance after the outdoor activity. The small group size and educational component add real value, especially if you’ve ever wondered what life is like for sled dogs beyond the movies.

For adventure-seekers, animal enthusiasts, and families wanting a memorable Arctic experience, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s affordable, authentic, and engaging—making it a worthwhile addition to your Lapland itinerary.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour offers transfers from Santa Claus Village, Hostel Cafe Koti, and central Rovaniemi hotels. You can also arrange your own transfer if preferred.

How long does the entire experience last?
The main activities, including the kennel visit, sled ride, and refreshments, are designed to fit into a half-day schedule, giving you time to enjoy other attractions.

Do I need my own winter clothing?
No, winter clothing is not provided, so it’s essential to bring warm layers, thermal underwear, hats, gloves, and snow goggles if you have them.

How long is the sled ride?
The sled ride is approximately 5 kilometers, driven by an experienced musher, offering a good balance of excitement and scenic tranquility.

Can I participate if I don’t have experience in sledding?
Absolutely. The experience is designed for all levels, and you sit comfortably in the sled while the musher handles the driving.

Are children welcome?
Yes, children who can sit securely in the sled are welcome. The experience is family-friendly, providing an educational angle for younger travelers.

What about group size?
Most groups are small, and only single travelers share sleds with others outside their party, which adds a social element but might not suit those wanting complete privacy.

Is the experience suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, solo travelers will share a sled with another person outside their party, making it a great opportunity to meet fellow adventurers.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English, with guides able to explain the process and answer questions clearly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 7 days in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your trip plans shift.

This huskiesled experience offers a fantastic way to engage with Lapland’s winter landscape and working dog culture, balancing adventure, education, and cozy post-ride moments. Whether you’re a dog enthusiast or simply seeking an authentic Arctic outing, it’s a memorable choice that highlights the charm and challenge of life in Lapland.

You can check availability for your dates here: