Alta: Dog Sledding Trip under the Northern Lights

If you’re dreaming of a winter adventure that combines the magic of the Arctic with the thrill of mushing your own team of huskies, the Alta dog sledding tour might be just what you’re after. While we haven’t personally laced up our boots and taken this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear this experience hits all the right notes.

What we love about this tour is its personalized touch—you get to command your own team of huskies, which really makes it feel like an authentic Arctic adventure. Plus, the chance to see the Northern Lights dance overhead adds that extra sprinkle of magic that many travelers dream about.

One thing to keep in mind is that this experience is fairly physically active and involves cold weather gear, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with winter conditions. If you’re after a cozy, low-key trip, this might not be your best fit. However, if you’re keen on an outdoor, hands-on adventure in stunning winter landscapes, this tour will surely satisfy.

This experience is ideal for outdoor lovers, animal enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a true Arctic thrill—whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or with a small group. It’s a journey that promises not just good fun but also a deeper connection to Norway’s wilderness.

Key Points

• Personal Huskies: You’ll have the chance to command your own team of energetic huskies, making the experience engaging and immersive.
• Spectacular Scenery: Glide through pine forests and across the Finnmarksvidda plateau, with plenty of opportunities for photos.
• Northern Lights: The timing often aligns with prime Aurora Borealis viewing, providing a chance to see this incredible natural display.
• Expert Guidance: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share insights about dog sledding and local history.
• Comfort & Safety: Warm clothing, thermal suits, boots, and gloves are provided—so you’ll stay cozy despite the Arctic chill.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off from Alta, where you’ll meet at the Adventure Store inside Canyon Hotell. From there, a comfortable minibus whisks you about 30 minutes to the Gargia mountain lodge, a cozy, rustic spot with a genuine mountain lodge vibe. Travelers consistently note the punctuality of pickups, which sets a relaxed tone right from the start.

Warm Welcome and Equipment

Upon arrival, the guides—like Linda, as one reviewer mentioned—are friendly, welcoming, and highly knowledgeable. They’ll provide you with warm clothing, including thermal suits, gloves, boots, and balaclavas. This is a big plus because being dressed appropriately makes all the difference in Arctic conditions. Expect to spend a few minutes getting geared up; the guides help with dressing and undressing the dogs, outlining safety tips, and explaining what to expect.

Training and Introduction

Before hitting the trail, guides give a comprehensive briefing on how dog sledding works—what each command means, how to handle the sledge, and how to interact with your team. This training is straightforward and suitable even if it’s your first time. The guides are patient and happy to answer questions, which many reviews highlight as one of the tour’s strengths.

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The Mushing Experience

Once ready, you’ll set off with your own team of huskies—a mix of enthusiasm, strength, and friendliness. The route takes you through pine forests, along gushing rivers, across a frozen lake, and onto the Finnmarksvidda plateau, a vast, open landscape that looks like something out of a winter postcard.

One review describes it as “magical,” especially while snow is gently falling, creating a quiet, white wonderland. You can expect about 50 minutes on the trail, which is plenty of time to really get a feel for mushing. If there are two guests, you’ll take turns driving, giving everyone the chance to experience steering the sled.

Midway Break and Local Stories

Midway through, the group stops at the Gargia mountain lodge. This pause is not just for a rest but also for hot coffee and tea, which many find comforting after outdoor exertion. The guides share stories about dog sledding’s history and local culture, adding depth to the trip. This is a lovely moment to relax, pet the dogs up close, and take some photos.

Meeting the Huskies

One of the most loved parts of this tour, as highlighted by reviews, is the chance to meet and interact with the huskies. Petting them, feeding them, and seeing their excitement is a highlight that makes the experience feel personal and genuine.

The Northern Lights

The tour’s timing often aligns with prime Aurora Borealis viewing. While the lights are a natural phenomenon and can’t be guaranteed, many travelers have been lucky enough to witness the shimmering green and purple glow above the snow-covered landscape. The quiet, dark surroundings of Finnmarksvidda provide an excellent backdrop for this mesmerizing display.

Return and Reflection

After about 60 minutes outside, you’ll head back to Gargia and then return to Alta. Many reviews mention the helpfulness of the staff, with drivers like Enrico going out of their way to ensure everyone is comfortable and cared for.

What’s Included & Cost-Value Analysis

For $405 per person, this tour offers a lot of value, especially considering:

• Dog Sledding: 50 minutes on the trail, commanding your own husky team.
• Transport: Round-trip from Alta to Gargia, easing logistics.
• Gear: Thermal suits, boots, gloves—so no need to pack heavy winter clothing.
• Food & Stories: Hot drinks and engaging storytelling about local history and dog sledding.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring attention and a relaxed vibe.

While the price might seem steep at first glance, it includes a comprehensive package—training, equipment, transport, and a genuine outdoor experience. Many reviewers say it’s worth every penny, especially since the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the overall enjoyment.

Potential Drawbacks

Some considerations: this experience involves outdoor activity in cold weather, so you need to dress appropriately and be comfortable in winter gear. It’s also somewhat physically demanding, especially if you’re driving the sled yourself, and not suitable for those with mobility issues or certain health conditions.

Plus, Northern Lights viewing is never guaranteed—it’s a natural phenomenon, after all. However, the chances are good, particularly on clear, cold nights.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventure seekers who enjoy outdoor activities and want a hands-on, authentic experience. Animal lovers and those curious about dog sledding will find it especially rewarding. If you’re traveling with children over 8 who are comfortable in winter gear, they might enjoy it, but check the minimum age requirement (16 to ride alone).

It’s also a wonderful choice if you’re looking for a break from traditional sightseeing, preferring instead to engage with nature directly. If your goal is to see the Northern Lights in a peaceful, remote setting, this tour offers a great chance, even if the lights aren’t guaranteed.

Final Thoughts

For anyone eager to try dog sledding in a beautiful Norwegian setting, this tour delivers on many levels. The combination of friendly guides, well-managed logistics, stunning scenery, and the thrill of steering huskies makes it memorable. The reviews confirm that it’s a safe, fun, and meaningful experience, especially in the winter months.

While it’s not a luxury experience—expect cold hands and a bit of physical effort—it’s genuine, exciting, and photographic. You might find yourself talking about it long after you return home, especially if the Northern Lights make an appearance.

If you’re after an adventure that gets you outdoors, close to nature, and involved in a centuries-old tradition, this dog sledding trip could be just the Arctic thrill you need.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transport from Alta to Gargia and back is included, making it convenient to focus on the experience itself.

What should I wear?
Warm clothing is provided, including thermal suits, boots, gloves, and a balaclava. Just make sure to dress warmly underneath if you want extra comfort.

Can I drive the sled myself?
Yes, if there are two participants, you’ll take turns driving the sled. Guides provide thorough instructions, making it suitable even for beginners.

Is Northern Lights viewing guaranteed?
Not exactly. Aurora Borealis depends on weather and solar activity, but many times, the conditions are right for a good chance to see them.

What is the minimum age to participate?
Children over 8 can join, but those under 16 need to be accompanied by an adult. To drive alone, the minimum age is 16.

Is this experience suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments, back problems, or who are not comfortable in cold, outdoor environments.

If you’re after a genuine Arctic adventure in Norway, combining stunning scenery, husky teamwork, and the elusive Northern Lights, this tour offers a well-rounded package. Just come prepared for the cold, bring your sense of adventure, and you might just check off a bucket list experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: