A Cozy Arctic Ride: Our Honest Take on the IVALO Snowmobile Sled Tour
If you’re dreaming of experiencing the true charm of Lapland without the adrenaline of driving a snowmobile, this Snowmobile Sled Ride to Wilderness is a lovely option. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on countless reviews and the detailed trip outline, it sounds like a peaceful way to soak in the Arctic scenery in comfort. Two hours in the snow-covered forests with a small group, a chance to meet friendly huskies, and a cozy stop at a remote fire pit—what’s not to love?
What really appeals to us about this tour is the relaxed pace. You’re not the one behind the wheel, so you can simply sit back, enjoy the scenery through a transparent roof, and have a good chat with your guide. Plus, the visit to the Happy Huskies kennel and the option to enjoy a hot drink and grilled sausages at a fire pit add those authentic, wholesome touches that make Arctic adventures memorable.
That said, a potential consideration is that the experience relies heavily on weather conditions. Bad weather or poor visibility could affect the scenic views, especially if you’re hoping to catch the Northern Lights. Also, since this is a small group experience, it’s not suitable for anyone under 2 years old or those with back problems.
This tour seems like a fantastic pick for those who want a tranquil, scenic Arctic experience—perhaps more suited for couples or small groups than thrill-seekers. If you’re after a peaceful, guided journey into Lapland’s natural beauty, this might be just what you’re looking for.
Key Points

- Comfortable, no-driving experience: Sit back and enjoy the scenery with a professional guide in charge.
- Small-group intimacy: Limited to six guests, making it relaxed and personalized.
- Authentic Arctic moments: Visit a husky kennel and enjoy a cozy fire stop with hot drinks and sausages.
- Flexible timing: Choose between daytime or evening tours, offering a chance to see the Northern Lights.
- Weather-dependent adventure: The experience and chances for aurora viewing depend on weather conditions.
- Responsible operation: The husky kennel prioritizes animal welfare and responsible tourism.
The Experience in Detail

When you sign up for the Snowmobile Sled Ride to Wilderness, you’re in for a journey that feels almost like stepping into a fairy tale. The tour lasts roughly two hours, making it perfect for a half-day escape into nature without feeling rushed or exhausted.
Meeting Point and Ease of Access
You’ll gather at Alatörmäsentie 29b in Ivalo, with clear signage and easy directions. The location is straightforward, and they recommend arriving on time to keep everything running smoothly. If you experience delays, just give them a heads-up—customer service seems accommodating.
What You’ll Do and See
Once you’re ready, you’ll hop into a covered sleigh pulled by a snowmobile. The transparent roof is a thoughtful touch, allowing unobstructed views of the snowy forests, frozen marshes, and winding trails. This design makes the ride more immersive and scenic, perfect for catching glimpses of wildlife or the elusive Northern Lights if the sky cooperates.
A professional guide, well-versed in local trails and weather, will lead the way. Their experience ensures safety, comfort, and a relaxed pace, which is ideal if you’re not eager to handle the driving yourself. The small group setting means you’ll get individualized attention, ask questions, and truly enjoy the quiet beauty of Lapland’s wilderness.
Visit to the Husky Kennel
One of the tour highlights is a stop at the Happy Huskies kennel. Known for their responsible approach, the kennel’s focus is on the dogs’ well-being. Travelers often comment on the bright eyes and wagging tails of the huskies, which adds an authentic and compassionate touch to the experience. Meeting the dogs up close gives you a chance to learn about their role in Arctic culture and the importance of responsible animal care.
The Fire Pit Stop
Midway through your ride, you’ll stop at a remote fire pit deep in the forest. The setting is idyllic—fire crackling, snow shimmering, and the night sky opening above. Here, you’ll enjoy hot berry juice or cocoa and grilled sausages, cooked right over the flames. This break is not just about food; it’s about soaking in the peaceful silence and starry views, which many reviews say is genuinely magical.
Timing and Aurora Chances
If you book the evening tour, your guide will choose routes based on weather and sky clarity, maximizing your odds of spotting the Northern Lights. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the deep wilderness away from city lights makes conditions ideal for aurora viewing. Even if the lights stay hidden, the atmosphere of the night, the crackling fire, and the stillness of the forest make it a memorable experience.
Additional Flexibility
If you’re interested in extending your Arctic adventure, you can combine this experience with activities like husky sledding or relaxing in a Finnish sauna—just ask when booking. This flexibility allows you to customize your trip to maximize your time in Lapland.
Planning more time in Ivalo? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What to Expect in Practical Terms

Duration and Group Size
The tour lasts 2 hours, which is a good chunk of time without feeling overwhelming. Limited to six participants, the small-group setup offers a more intimate, relaxed experience—especially nice if you’re traveling with a partner or small family.
Cost and Value
While the exact price isn’t specified here, the value lies in the combination of scenic comfort, local expertise, and authentic encounters. Since you’re not the one driving, it’s a more laid-back way to explore the wilderness, especially suitable for those who prefer not to handle a snowmobile themselves.
What to Bring and Dress
You’ll want to come prepared with warm clothing, hats, gloves, scarves, water, and sturdy insulated shoes. The tour operator recommends dressing warmly in thick winter gear and insulated boots—nothing kills the mood like cold feet or exposed skin in Lapland’s winter.
Weather Variability
Because the experience depends on winter weather and snow conditions, it’s worth being flexible with your plans. If conditions aren’t safe, the tour offers alternative dates or full refunds — a reassuring policy for cautious travelers.
Not Suitable For

The tour isn’t recommended for children under 2 years old or anyone with back problems, primarily because of the seated nature of the sled and the need for stable posture during the ride.
About The Provider and Similar Experiences
Happy Huskies emphasizes responsible tourism and animal welfare, which adds peace of mind. They’re well-reviewed for their caring approach. If you’re interested in exploring further, similar experiences include reindeer feeding tours, Aurora hunting, or snowshoe treks, all of which share the same small-group, authentic vibe.
Links to other tours like reindeer feeding with lunch, Aurora hunting with huskies, and snowshoe trips suggest that Lapland offers a variety of ways to enjoy its winter landscape, and this snowmobile sleigh ride fits neatly into that lineup.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Bottom Line: Who Is This Tour Best For?
If you’re after a gentle, scenic introduction to Lapland’s winter wilderness, this tour is a great choice. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families with older children who enjoy peaceful outdoor experiences. It’s especially suited for those who want to experience Arctic landscapes comfortably—without the stress of driving or navigating snowy trails themselves.
The focus on authenticity and comfort makes it a meaningful way to connect with Lapland’s natural beauty and local culture. If you’re seeking a quiet, contemplative journey into the Arctic heart, this tour could be just what you need.
However, if you’re after an adrenaline-filled snowmobile safari or the thrill of driving yourself, you’ll want to look elsewhere. Also, keep in mind the reliance on weather conditions for optimal viewing—patience might be necessary if the Northern Lights are your main goal.
IVALO: Snowmobile Sled Ride to Wilderness
FAQ
Can I drive the snowmobile myself?
No, this tour is a sled ride pulled by a snowmobile, so no driving experience is needed or allowed. It’s designed for comfort and scenery viewing.
What should I wear?
Bring warm clothing, hats, gloves, scarves, and insulated shoes. Dress in thick winter gear to stay comfortable in Lapland’s cold climate.
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately two hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, but only if children are over 2 years old and capable of sitting comfortably. It’s best suited for small groups, couples, or families with older kids.
What’s included in the stop at the fire pit?
You’ll enjoy hot berry juice or cocoa and grilled sausages cooked over the fire, in a peaceful forest setting.
Can I see the Northern Lights?
The tour offers the chance to see the aurora during the evening, with routes chosen based on weather and sky conditions. Still, sightings depend on luck and weather.
What if the weather is unsafe?
The tour operator offers alternative dates or full refunds if weather conditions make the experience unsafe.
Is animal welfare a concern?
Not at all. The Happy Huskies kennel is known for its responsible, caring approach to sled dogs, emphasizing their well-being.
How many people are in each group?
Limited to six participants, which ensures a personalized and relaxed experience.
If you’re craving a peaceful, scenic way to explore Lapland’s winter wonderland, this Snowmobile Sled Ride seems like a lovely, authentic choice. It’s all about enjoying the quiet beauty of the Arctic, with a dash of local charm from the huskies and the campfire. Perfect for those who want a calm, memorable journey into the wilderness.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Ivalo
More Ivalo experiences we've covered
- IVALO: Snowmobile Sled Ride to Wilderness
- Ivalo – Saariselkä: Horseback Riding Adventures
- Wilderness Adventure by Snowmobile Sleigh
- Day with a local – a true finnish experience
- Ivalo: Snowmobile Safari, Meet and Feed Reindeers with Lunch
- Northern Lights Hunting with Aurora Workshop
- Lapland: Aurora Hunting by Minivan with Guide and Transport
- Ivalo: Reindeer Visit Meet & Feed Reindeer
- Ivalo – Saariselkä: Husky Walk in the Wilderness
- Ivalo: Aurora Hunting with Huskies
- Northern Lights & Reindeer Experience



