Autumn Husky Ride on Wheels, Apukka Resort Rovaniemi

Introducing the Autumn Husky Ride on Wheels at Apukka Resort Rovaniemi

If you’re dreaming of stepping into a winter wonderland where the dogs are as eager to run as you are to watch, then this Autumn Husky Ride on Wheels might just be a highlight of your trip to Rovaniemi. Although I haven’t done this exact tour myself, I’ve seen enough reviews and details to confidently say it’s a unique experience that combines adrenaline, education, and a touch of Finnish charm.

What really draws us in is how this tour offers more than just a quick ride — it’s a chance to learn about the lives of Arctic sledge dogs and even get involved in their training. Plus, the backdrop of colorful Finnish forests makes for stunning scenery. That said, it’s worth noting that children under 4 aren’t suited for this activity, and you’ll want to book a bit ahead—most travelers tend to secure their spot about 18 days in advance.

This experience would suit those who love animals, enjoy outdoor adventures, or are curious about the life of sled dogs in the Arctic. If you’re traveling with family or simply want a genuine, engaging husky experience, this could be a perfect fit. Just keep in mind that it’s a shorter, active outing—not a long tour—so if you’re after a full-day adventure, you might need to look elsewhere.

Key Points

• Family-friendly with an emphasis on education about husky dogs
• Includes a ride through Finnish forests with a team of sled dogs
• Opportunity to learn about husky training and Arctic dog life
• Hot berry juice served after the ride adds a cozy touch
• Small group experience with up to 14 travelers, ensuring personalized attention
• Booking well in advance is recommended due to popularity

What to Expect from the Husky Ride Experience

This tour kicks off at the Apukka Resort Adventures, located conveniently in Rovaniemi at Tutkijantie 28. The meeting point is straightforward, and since transport options include pickup, it takes the hassle out of logistics. The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, a good chunk of time for a memorable adventure without feeling rushed.

The main event is a speedy ride in a team of huskies—think of it as a high-energy, scenic sled with the dogs pulling you through Finnish forests and open fields. During the ride, you get an up-close look at how these incredible dogs work together, giving you the chance to see their strength and agility firsthand. Many reviews, like that of Thomas, highlight how they loved “driving a 5 dog hitch through the gorgeous Finnish woods,” emphasizing the fun and the impressive power of these animals.

One of the unique aspects of this tour is the opportunity to participate in husky training. If you’re interested, you can take part in training the dogs for the winter season, which can be a real eye-opener. The owners are passionate about their dogs, with one reviewer noting that the owner “remembers the name of every one of his over 70 dogs,” showing their dedication. This personal touch makes the experience feel genuine and immersive.

Once your ride concludes, you’ll enjoy some hot berry juice, a perfect Finnish touch to warm up after the outdoor activity. This isn’t just a quick photo stop — it’s a chance to chat more about huskies, ask questions, and learn about their daily lives at the farm. The atmosphere is friendly and educational, with clear instructions provided to ensure everyone can enjoy the ride safely.

The Ride: A Closer Look

The sleigh ride itself involves a team of huskies pulling a wheeled cart, which makes it suitable for autumn or times when snow isn’t on the ground but the landscape remains breathtakingly beautiful. Since the tour takes place on wheels, it’s accessible during the shoulder seasons, avoiding the need for snow conditions.

The forest trek showcases Finnish nature at its best, with colorful foliage in autumn—if you’re visiting during this season—adding to the visual appeal. The dogs love to run, and you’ll sense their enthusiasm and strength as they pull you along. It’s a dynamic experience that combines nature, animals, and adventure all in one.

The training component is particularly appealing for those interested in how sled dogs are prepared for winter. Travelers might get to see or even take part in some of the training routines, which adds an educational layer to the fun.

What Do the Reviews Say?

While the overall rating is perfect at 5.0, the single review from Thomas gives us a good insight. He mentions, “Loved every minute. Learned all about huskies. Played with puppies then got to experience just how strong and talented these dogs are!” This highlights how engaging and interactive the experience can be. His comment about the “precise and clear instructions” reassures that the activity is accessible and well-organized, even for first-timers.

The mention of playing with puppies adds a soft, adorable element that many travelers find irresistible. It’s not just a ride — it’s a chance to connect with the dogs and learn their stories.

Practical Details & Tips

• Price: At $178.94 per person, this experience is a bit of an investment, but considering the personalized nature, the educational component, and the opportunity to see sled dogs in action, it’s reasonable. It’s a good value for a hands-on, authentic Arctic adventure.
• Booking: Most travelers book about 18 days in advance, which makes sense given the small group size and popularity.
• Duration: Expect around 1 hour 30 minutes total. The actual ride is shorter but includes preparation, instruction, and the post-ride chat.
• Group Size: Limited to 14 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Suitability: Not suitable for children under 4, so if you’re traveling with little ones, this might not be the best fit. Also, weather-dependent, so check the forecast—if canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or a reschedule is offered.

The Experience in Context

This tour strikes a nice balance between adventure, education, and Finnish culture. It’s perfect for those who want to see and learn about sled dogs without committing to a full-day sledding tour or waiting for snow to arrive. The warm drink afterwards adds that cozy Finnish touch and helps you unwind after the outdoor activity.

The small group size means you’re not just a face in the crowd, and the clear instructions ensure everyone can participate comfortably. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a meaningful interaction with huskies, rather than a purely touristy ride.

While it’s not a long tour, the quality of the experience makes those 90 minutes worthwhile. If you’re someone who appreciates animal stories, scenic forest rides, and learning about Arctic life, this is likely to be a memorable part of your Rovaniemi trip.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for animal lovers and those curious about sled dog training and life in the Arctic. It’s suitable for travelers who appreciate small-group, interactive activities and are interested in nature and outdoor fun. If you’re traveling with family, especially those over 4 years old, it can be engaging and educational.

However, if you’re looking for a deep-dive into winter sledding or planning to stay indoors, this might not be the best fit. It’s also a wonderful option for first-time visitors wanting a taste of Arctic culture without a long commitment.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 4 years old, but kids over that age tend to enjoy the experience, especially the chance to play with puppies and learn about huskies.

What should I wear?
Since the activity takes place outdoors in Finnish forests, dress warmly in layers. Comfortable outdoor shoes are recommended, especially as the terrain may be uneven.

Can I participate in husky training?
Yes, depending on the day, you might be able to take part in training the huskies for the winter season, which adds an interactive element to the tour.

Is transportation included?
Pickup is offered from the meeting point at Apukka Resort, making logistics easier. Confirm with the provider if pickup is included in your package.

What does the ride involve?
You’ll be riding in a wheeled cart pulled by a team of huskies, offering a fun and scenic trek through the autumn landscape.

How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, with the actual ride and additional time for instruction and chatting.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Autumn Husky Ride on Wheels at Apukka Resort offers a genuinely engaging peek into the world of Arctic sled dogs—minus the long wait for snow. Its blend of scenic forest rides, educational insights, and close contact with dogs makes it a strong choice for anyone wanting a meaningful outdoor activity in Rovaniemi.

It’s especially suited for those who value small-group intimacy, animal interaction, and a taste of Finnish outdoor life. While it might not be the most adrenaline-pumping adventure, its charm lies in its authenticity and the chance to connect with the Arctic environment and its incredible dogs.

If you’re after a relaxed yet memorable experience that combines nature, culture, and animals, this tour could very well be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to book early, dress warmly, and enjoy every moment with these talented huskies.