From Alta: Huskey Dog Sledding Tour

If you’re pondering whether to try a dog sledding adventure in Norway, this tour in Alta might catch your eye. It’s a well-reviewed experience, earning a stellar 4.9 out of 5 from 38 travelers, and it promises a genuine taste of Arctic life with a team of Alaskan Huskies. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on the details and reviews, it looks like a solid choice for anyone craving an authentic, engaging outdoor experience in the far north.

What really appeals to us is the chance to feel like part of Norway’s dog sledding culture—visiting a husky farm with over three decades of racing experience—plus, the scenery sounds spectacular, especially with the frozen landscape shimmering under the polar night. The only thing to keep in mind is that, due to safety and animal welfare, the trip might get canceled if temperatures become too warm for the dogs, which could be disappointing if you’re visiting during a warm spell. This tour suits travelers of all ages who are curious about dogsledding, enjoy scenic outdoor activities, and want a taste of authentic Arctic life.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: Ride with experienced Alaskan Huskies and visit a family with decades of sled racing history.
• Beautiful scenery: Glistening frozen landscapes under the polar night light create a magical backdrop.
• Knowledgeable guides: Expect friendly, well-informed guides who can share stories about the region and the dogs.
• Flexible booking: You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for ages 5 and up, with specific seating arrangements for children.
• Temperature-dependent: Trips may be canceled if weather conditions are unsafe for the dogs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Husky Dog Sledding Tour

This experience is designed to give you genuine insight into the Arctic sled dog world, with a three-hour journey that mixes adventure, education, and cozy comforts. Starting from the Labyrinten 8 location in Alta, the tour kicks off with a pickup at 09:00 AM at the tourist information center, a convenient spot in town.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Preparation:
Once you’re picked up, you’ll be provided with the necessary clothing—thermal gear, gloves, hats, and sunglasses to keep you warm and comfortable. Since the weather can be extreme, this gear is essential, and it’s a plus that the tour provider takes care of it, sparing you the hassle of packing your own.

Introduction and Safety Briefing:
The guides will give you a safety briefing—important for first-timers or those unfamiliar with mushing. They’ll show you how to handle the sled and explain the behavior of the dogs. This part is crucial as it sets the tone for a fun, safe experience.

The Self-Drive Dog Sled Ride:
About an hour of actual mushing follows, depending on weather conditions. Here, you’ll get behind the sled and experience the pull of the dogs as they glide through the snow. This part of the trip is what many reviews highlight as the highlight—“the exhilaration of mushing a team of well-trained sled dogs” is truly something special. Travelers have praised the professionalism of the guides and the friendliness of the dogs, with one reviewer noting, “The dogs were fantastic and the guides very knowledgeable! We really enjoyed our stay there.”

Scenic Arctic Landscapes:
Riding through the stunning Norwegian winter scenery, you’ll witness the icy landscape shimmering in the low, bright light. The frozen wilderness, coupled with the quiet of the snow, makes for a peaceful yet exhilarating setting.

Warm-up and Storytelling in the Lavvo Tent:
After the ride, everyone gathers in a traditional Lavvo tent—an authentic Sami-style tent—for snacks and hot drinks. This part adds a cozy, social element, letting you relax, chat, and hear stories about the region and the dogs from knowledgeable guides.

Return to Alta:
Finally, transport takes you back to the starting point, typically lasting about 2.5 hours after the initial pickup, giving you ample time to enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.

The Experience at the Husky Farm

One of the standout features of this tour is the visit to a family-run husky farm with over 30 years of experience. This isn’t just a tourist stop—it’s a real sled dog operation, and you’ll be able to see the dogs in their element, learn about their training, and get a glimpse into the Norwegian sled dog culture.

Guests have consistently praised the guides for their knowledgeability and friendliness, making the experience both educational and personal. The dogs themselves are described as “sweet and friendly,” which helps those new to sledding feel relaxed.

What Makes This Tour Special?

• Authentic Connection: Visiting a family that’s been racing and training sled dogs for decades gives you a rare, behind-the-scenes look.
• Expert Guides: They share stories and insights, making the experience not just fun but deeply informative.
• Stunning Views: The scenery isn’t just scenic; it’s breathtaking in the Arctic winter, with icy forests and shimmering snowfields.
• Safety and Comfort: The tour offers clothing, safety instructions, and a controlled environment, making it accessible even for first-timers.

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The Practical Side: Logistics and Considerations

The tour lasts around 3 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity—perfect if you’re combining it with other explorations in Alta. The small group size—limited to 8 participants—ensures a personal experience and plenty of interaction with guides and dogs alike.

The cost is justified when you consider the included amenities: transportation, expert guidance, clothing, and the memorable mushing experience. Plus, the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before means you can book with peace of mind, especially considering Norway’s unpredictable winter weather.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

It’s a great choice for adventurous travelers, families with kids aged 5 and above, or anyone interested in Norwegian outdoor culture. If you’re looking for a high-energy activity that also offers serenity and scenic beauty, this tour ticks those boxes.

Notable Downsides

The main consideration is the weather dependence—if temperatures rise or conditions become unsafe for the dogs, the trip will be canceled or rescheduled. This is out of the provider’s control but worth keeping in mind. Also, while the tour is family-friendly, children under 5 are not permitted, and younger kids will need to sit between an adult’s legs on the sled, which might be less comfortable for some.

The Value and Who Should Consider This

This husky sledding tour offers a rich, authentic Arctic experience at a reasonable price point, especially considering the included gear, transportation, and the chance to drive the sled yourself. Travelers who value interactive outdoor activities and want a memorable, scenic adventure will find this a worthwhile choice.

It’s especially suited for those who want more than just sightseeing—they crave a connection with animals, learn about local traditions, and enjoy the serenity of Norway’s winter landscape. If you’re traveling with kids aged 5 or older, they’ll likely love sitting on the sled and meeting the dogs.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup is arranged at 09:00 AM in front of the Alta Tourist Information, and transportation back is provided after the tour.

What clothing should I bring?
The tour provider supplies clothing, but it’s recommended to bring sunglasses, a hat, and thermal clothing to stay comfortable during your outdoor time.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 5 and above can join, with seating arrangements to keep them safe. Kids aged 5-12 sit between an adult’s legs, while those 13-15 can sit independently.

What if the weather is warm?
The activity provider may cancel trips if temperatures become unsafe for the dogs, meaning your trip could be rescheduled or canceled if conditions aren’t suitable.

How long is the actual sled ride?
Approximately one hour of self-driven sledding, depending on weather conditions.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guides provide a safety briefing and instructions, making it accessible even for first-timers.

In all, this dog sledding tour from Alta offers a genuine slice of Arctic life, blending scenic beauty, cultural insight, and a bit of adventure. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the landscape and the dogs that help define Norwegian winter sports—and definitely worth considering if you’re in the area and craving a memorable outdoor activity.

You can check availability for your dates here: