If you’re dreaming of a winterless husky adventure, this Autumn Husky Sit and Drive Cart Tour from Kiruna might just be the experience you’re looking for. Unlike the classic snowy sled rides, this tour offers the chance to guide your own dog-powered cart through the forest, all in beautiful fall surroundings. It’s a rare treat to see huskies in their element during the off-season, and this tour makes it accessible.
What really stands out for us are two specific things: first, the opportunity to personally harness, drive, and interact with the dogs, which adds a layer of engagement many tours overlook. Second, the scenic forest trails promise a peaceful yet invigorating ride, with guides navigating so you can simply enjoy the views. The cozy post-ride break—enjoying coffee or tea by a fire with the dogs—feels like a perfect way to finish.
That said, a consideration worth noting is that this tour requires some physical activity—you’ll be harnessing and driving the cart, so a moderate level of fitness is needed. Plus, since it operates in all weather conditions, be prepared for whatever the day throws at you by dressing appropriately.
This experience seems best suited for travelers who want a hands-on connection with huskies and enjoy outdoor adventures in nature, but it’s also a good pick for those wanting a more relaxed, scenic experience away from winter’s snow.
Key Points
- Unique off-season experience: No snow needed; drive a dog-powered cart in autumn.
- Interactive and engaging: Harnessing and guiding the dogs adds a personal touch.
- Beautiful setting: Forest trails with guided navigation mean no worries about getting lost.
- Comfort break: Coffee and cinnamon rolls by a fire create a cozy ending.
- Group size: Small groups (max 8) ensure a more personal experience.
- Weather-proof: Operates in all weather, so dress for the conditions.
What to Expect from the Tour
This 3-hour experience kicks off at Husky Tours Lapland in Svappavaara, just outside Kiruna. The meeting point is straightforward, and the tour starts promptly at 10:00 am. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted warmly by the guide—usually Kent or Helena—who will give you clear instructions on how to harness the dogs and drive the cart. If you’ve never done something like this before, don’t worry; the guides are there to help you feel confident.
The core of the tour involves driving your own dog-drawn cart through scenic forest trails. About halfway through, you’ll switch drivers so everyone gets a turn sitting and driving. The path is chosen with care, so you won’t need to worry about getting lost—your guide is there to navigate and keep safety a priority.
Along With the ride, you get to interact with the huskies, feeding and unharnessing them after the ride, which many reviews describe as a heartfelt highlight. One guest mentioned, “Everyone was so kind including the dogs,” which hints at the genuine connection the team fosters with their animals.
After the ride, you’ll settle down for a hot beverage—coffee or tea—and a cinnamon roll by the fire. It’s a simple yet cozy way to share stories and ask questions about the dogs, sledding, or the local area.
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The Dogs and Guides
The dogs are the stars of this experience. With around 80 huskies on-site, the kennels are lively and filled with energy. Guests consistently praise the staff for their knowledge and friendliness, making everyone feel comfortable and well-informed.
Multiple reviews mention how caring and attentive the guides are, especially when explaining how to harness the dogs or answering questions about their lives. One guest noted, “Helena took her time explaining and answering questions,” which shows the tour’s emphasis on education and connection.
This tour offers a personalized experience—since the group is limited to 8 travelers, it’s easy to get individual attention, ask questions, and truly enjoy the interaction with the dogs.
The Scenery and Weather
While the main focus is the activity itself, the scenery is an important part of the charm. Autumn in Sweden offers a palette of warm colors, and the forest trails provide a peaceful backdrop for your ride. You’ll get a chance to see the natural beauty that surrounds Kiruna, with the added bonus of being outdoors in crisp, fresh air.
Because the tour operates in all weather conditions, packing the right clothing is vital. Waterproof gear that can handle mud and rain is recommended, especially since the trails can get muddy or damp. The weather might not be cold enough for snow, but it can still be chilly, so layers are key.
Is It Worth the Price?
At $141.06 per person for roughly three hours, this tour offers good value for those interested in a personal, hands-on husky experience outside the winter season. Given that you’re actively involved in harnessing and driving the dogs, this fee covers not only the ride but also the interaction and guidance.
Considering the reviews praising the knowledgeable guides, the friendly dogs, and the scenic setting, many would say it’s a worthwhile expense. Plus, the inclusion of transportation from a designated meeting point makes logistics easier, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for adventure lovers who want to try something different from standard winter sled rides. It’s also suited for nature enthusiasts who enjoy being outdoors and want a more participatory activity. Since the tour is relatively moderate in physical demands but requires some effort in harnessing the dogs, it’s best for those with a reasonable level of fitness.
It’s particularly appealing to travelers who value authentic, close-up experiences with dogs and enjoy guided tours with small groups. If you’re traveling with kids, note that children must be accompanied by an adult, and the physical effort involved might be better suited for older children rather than very young ones.
Final Thoughts
For anyone visiting Kiruna during the autumn months, this Autumn Husky Sit and Drive Cart Tour offers a distinctive way to connect with the region’s natural beauty and its legendary huskies. The combination of engaging activity, scenic views, and cozy moments by the fire makes it a memorable addition to your trip.
While it’s not a snow-covered adventure, the charm of guiding your own dog cart through the forests and cuddling with the huskies creates a warm, genuine experience. Whether you’re a dog lover, outdoor enthusiast, or simply curious about what’s possible in the off-season, this tour delivers a meaningful, fun-filled outing.
If you’re after a personalized, interactive experience with huskies and enjoy the outdoors, this trip is well worth considering. Just remember to dress for the weather, be prepared for some physical effort, and you’ll likely leave with a big smile and lots of stories to tell.
Autumn Husky Sit and Drive Cart Tour from Kiruna
“This is a must do! Everyone was so kind including the dogs! We were so grateful for the opportunity to guide our own carts and the whole experience…”
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate if they are accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind that harnessing and driving the cart involves some physical activity, so consider your child’s fitness level.
What should I wear?
Dress in waterproof gear that can handle muddy conditions. Layers are advisable to stay warm and comfortable, especially since it operates in all weather conditions.
How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 3 hours, including the time at the kennel, the ride, and the fire-side break.
Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transport from the designated meeting spot in Svappavaara is included, making it easier to join and focus on the experience.
Can I get a refund if I cancel?
No, this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed. Be sure of your plans before booking.
What’s the maximum group size?
The tour groups are limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personal experience.
If you’re after a memorable, hands-on husky adventure that’s accessible even without snow, this tour from Kiruna offers a warm, authentic way to experience the region’s natural beauty and its beloved dogs.
