If you’re considering a husky experience in Lapland, this Inari Husky Hike offers a chance to get up close with these lively dogs and take a walk through the stunning summer landscapes of northern Finland. While it’s not a lengthy or intense activity, it’s a genuine, hands-on introduction to the world of sled dogs and Arctic nature—perfect if you’re after something memorable and different.
We like that this tour combines a personal visit to a husky farm with a guided hike—giving you a chance to meet the dogs, learn about their lives, and enjoy the fresh outdoors. Plus, there’s an added touch of fun when the huskies get to cool off with a swim in the lake. However, it’s worth noting that the 2-hour duration and small group size mean this experience is quite intimate, but not overly adventurous or a full-day epic. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy gentle outdoor activities and are curious about the life of Lapland’s working dogs.
One potential consideration is the age restriction: children under 5 aren’t recommended, so if you’re traveling with small kids, this might not be the best fit. Still, for those seeking a low-key, authentic encounter with huskies in a beautiful setting, this tour hits the right notes.
If you’re after a well-organized, cozy intro to Lapland’s husky culture with friendly guides, this experience could be a highlight of your trip. Now, let’s unpack what makes it so special — and a few things to keep in mind.
Key Points
- Authentic encounter with huskies at a dedicated farm in Inari
- Guided walk through Lapland’s summer nature with dogs pulling the way
- Educational insights into husky life and harnessing techniques
- Lake swim break adding a refreshing twist to the hike
- Small group size for a more personal experience
- Duration just 2 hours, ideal for a quick, meaningful activity
The Itinerary and What You Can Expect
The tour starts with a convenient meet-up at the Wilderness Hotel Juutua, from where you’ll be transferred to the husky farm. This initial part of the experience is more than just logistics—it’s where you get to learn about the huskies’ lives in Lapland, which adds context and depth to the walk. Understanding how these dogs are raised, trained, and cared for makes the experience more meaningful and helps you appreciate the bond between the mushers and their team.
Once at the farm, you’ll get to see the dogs up close. Many reviews mention how friendly and lively the huskies are, and a few highlight that “they love to sniff around other animals’ tracks,” showing just how spirited and curious these dogs are. You’ll get a quick lesson on harnessing and controlling your furry companions, which is surprisingly straightforward but gives you an authentic feeling of being part of the team.
The actual hike takes you into the scenic Lapland wilderness, with the huskies doing the pulling. The guides lead the way, ensuring safety and a smooth ride. During the walk, you’ll get to enjoy the summer landscape—think lush green forests, lakes, and open skies—and experience the special thrill of being pulled by a team of energetic huskies.
A lovely touch is the lake swim break. The dogs are eager to cool off in the water, and you might find yourself tempted to join them, or at least enjoy watching them splash around. This break not only provides some fun but also gives you a moment to relax in nature and take in the peaceful surroundings.
The return trip is a straightforward transfer back to the Wilderness Hotel Juutua, leaving you with a fresh perspective on Lapland’s summer wilderness and a handful of stories about these incredible dogs.
Planning more time in Inari Municipality? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Experience Quality and Guides
The tour is led by live English and Finnish-speaking guides, which means you’ll get clear, friendly explanations throughout. The small group size—limited to 8 participants—keeps it intimate, allowing for more personalized interaction and easier questions. Several reviews mention how knowledgeable and approachable the guides are, emphasizing their enthusiasm for sharing their love of huskies and the region.
The price reflects the personalized, hands-on nature of the experience. For about two hours, you get a meaningful encounter—not just a quick photo op or a crowded ride. If you’re someone who values quality over quantity and prefers a relaxed, informative outing, this tour offers good value.
Practical Details and Considerations
You need to bring outdoor clothing suitable for the weather. Even in summer, Lapland’s weather can be unpredictable—so layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes are a good idea. Since it’s a walk in nature, comfortable shoes are a must. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling with little ones.
Transportation is organized from the meeting point at the hotel reception, and the entire experience lasts about 2 hours, including the transfer, walk, and breaks. It’s a light commitment, making it easy to slot into a busy itinerary.
The experience is designed for a small group, which enhances the feeling of being part of a cozy outdoor adventure. This also means it’s less crowded and more relaxed—ideal if you prefer avoiding large tour groups.
The Value and Who It’s For
This Husky Hike in Inari offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s husky culture without needing to commit to a full-day or intensive activity. It’s perfect for travelers who want an authentic, educational experience that combines outdoor activity with local culture.
The value lies in the chance to meet and interact with the dogs, learn about their lives, and enjoy a scenic walk in the summer wilderness. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate small-group settings, are comfortable outdoors, and want a relaxed but meaningful adventure.
If you’re after a more adrenaline-filled or longer husky safari, this might feel a bit tame. But if you’re looking for a personalized, memorable introduction to Lapland’s huskies, it does the job nicely.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Will Love This Tour?
This experience is great for nature lovers, animal enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Lapland’s husky culture. It’s equally good for travelers seeking a peaceful outdoor activity that’s easy to fit into a day. Not ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues, but perfect for anyone wanting a genuine, friendly, and scenic outing in the Arctic summer.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 years old are not recommended, primarily for safety and comfort reasons. It’s best suited for older kids and adults who enjoy outdoor walking.
How long does the husky hike last?
The total experience is about 2 hours, including the transfer, the walk, and breaks.
What should I wear?
Bring outdoor clothing suitable for weather conditions, including layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes, as it’s a walk in nature.
Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 8 participants, making it intimate and allowing for personalized attention.
Do I learn anything about huskies?
Absolutely. The guides provide insights into the dogs’ lives and how they are harnessed and controlled for the hike.
Can I swim with the huskies?
While the dogs enjoy a swim in the lake during the break, you are not expected to join in. It’s mainly for the dogs to cool off.
What’s the main highlight of this experience?
Most reviews mention the personal interaction with the dogs and the scenic outdoor walk as the highlights.
Is there a language barrier?
Guides speak both English and Finnish, so you’ll have no trouble understanding the explanations.
What’s the cost?
While prices aren’t specified here, the experience is priced to reflect its personalized, small-group nature. Think of it as a worthwhile spend for a quality, memorable activity.
Inari: Husky Hike
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a relaxed, authentic introduction to huskies and want to enjoy the natural beauty of Lapland in summer, this Inari Husky Hike offers just that. It’s not a high-adrenaline adventure but a genuine, informative, and charming activity that captures the spirit of Arctic life.
It’s perfect for those who love animals, enjoy small-group experiences, and are curious about the daily life of Lapland’s working dogs. Be prepared for a gentle outdoor walk, some great photo opportunities, and a chance to connect with the local culture in a very personal way.
For anyone looking to combine nature, animals, and a touch of Finnish wilderness, this tour is a solid choice—honest, straightforward, and memorable.
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