Running with the Pack, 5km Husky Ride and a Kennel Tour

If you’re dreaming of exploring Lapland and want an experience that combines excitement with education, this tour from Bearhill Husky might tick a lot of boxes. It promises a 5km husky sled ride, a visit to a modern husky kennel, and a chance to learn about these resilient working dogs—perfect for anyone curious about the behind-the-scenes of Arctic mushers.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it balances fun with insight. You’ll be guided by experienced husky mushers who share their knowledge and passion, giving you not just a ride but a genuine glimpse into husky life. Plus, the after-ride warm-up with hot juice and cookies adds a cozy touch that makes the whole outing feel well-rounded.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that winter clothing isn’t provided, so you’ll need to dress warmly in weather-appropriate gear. This can be a dealbreaker if you aren’t prepared, especially considering Lapland’s chilly climate. Still, if you’re comfortable layering up, this tour is a fantastic choice for those wanting a straightforward, authentic sledding experience.

This tour suits travelers who want a hands-on, memorable Arctic adventure without the complications of longer or more intense sledding experiences. It’s especially good for those new to dog sledding or looking for a family-friendly outing, provided everyone’s dressed warmly.

Key Points

• Authentic husky experience: You get to meet the pack and learn directly from expert mushers.
• Balanced itinerary: Combines a 5km sled ride and a kennel tour, offering both activity and education.
• Comfort and warmth: Warm-up with hot juice and cookies after the ride, making the experience cozy.
• Accessibility: Suitable for those new to sledding, with a relatively low threshold for participation.
• Weather preparedness: No winter gear included, so dressing warmly is essential.
• Convenient transfer options: Pickups from central locations in Rovaniemi make it easy to join.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Analyzing the Experience in Detail

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

The tour kicks off with pickup options at familiar spots like Hostel Café Koti, Santa’s Husky Rides, or the K-Market Sinettä—these are convenient locations in Rovaniemi, making logistical planning easier. After a roughly 40-minute bus ride, you’ll arrive at Bearhill Husky, where the real magic begins.

Once at the kennel, you’ll have about 2 hours to learn about learning about the huskies. The guided tour gives insight into how the dogs live and train, which is particularly interesting given that these animals are working dogs built for endurance and strength. You’ll get a close look at the modern facilities, which are designed to ensure the huskies’ well-being—something that many travelers appreciate, especially those concerned about animal welfare.

Following the tour, it’s time for the main event: the sled ride. Sitting in a sled pulled by lively huskies, you’ll enjoy a 5km trek through the forests of Lapland. The experience of being driven through snow-covered trails by a team of enthusiastic dogs is genuinely special. The fact that it’s driven by a seasoned musher means you’ll benefit from expert handling and safety, making it suitable even for beginners.

What to Expect During the Sled Ride

The sled ride itself is described as a family-friendly, low-threshold activity—meaning it’s accessible for most people, including those who haven’t tried dog sledding before. You’re seated in the sled, with blankets provided to keep warm, which is reassuring given Lapland’s cold temperatures.

Since only single travelers are expected to share sleds with outsiders, if you’re traveling alone or with your group, you’ll likely be on your own or with your travel companions. This arrangement can make the experience feel more personal.

Comfort and Practicalities

A key aspect is dress code—the tour does not include winter outerwear or snow goggles. This is typical for many Arctic activities, but it does mean you need to come prepared with warm layers, gloves, and hats. Since you’re only provided with blankets on the sled, proper winter clothing is essential to stay comfortable and enjoy the ride.

Post-ride, the warm juice and cookies provide a cozy finish, giving you a chance to relax and chat about your experience. Many reviews mention how welcoming and friendly the staff are, which enhances the overall feeling of authenticity and care.

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The Value of the Experience

At $194 per person, this tour offers a blend of adventure, education, and warmth. The price includes transportation, the kennel tour, and the sled ride—meaning you’re not paying extra for each component. Considering the duration of roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes, it’s a fair value, especially given the opportunity to get up close with huskies and learn about their lives.

The modern kennel is a highlight for many, as it reassures guests that the dogs are well cared for and the environment is clean and professional. The opportunity to see the dogs in their element and hear from experienced mushers enhances the authenticity of the experience.

What We Heard from Other Travelers

Some reviews praise the friendly staff and the chance to interact closely with the huskies. One reviewer said, “It was so fun to see how happy and energetic the dogs are—they clearly love what they do,” which captures the spirit of this experience.

Others note that the ride was smooth and enjoyable for first-timers, with no mention of discomfort. However, a few mention that dressing warmly is crucial, as the outdoor conditions can be quite cold, especially if the weather is windy or snowing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those new to sledding or looking for an engaging, family-friendly Arctic adventure. It’s also great if you prefer a shorter, manageable tour without sacrificing authenticity.

Adventure seekers who want an educational component alongside the ride will find the kennel tour particularly valuable. Meanwhile, travelers who prioritize comfort and ease of access—given the central pick-up points and straightforward schedule—will appreciate the convenience.

The Sum Up

In essence, the Running with the Pack tour offers a genuine, accessible peek into the world of huskies in Lapland. Its balance of activity and education, along with the chance to meet energetic dogs and learn from experienced mushers, makes it a solid choice for most travelers.

If you’re after an authentic Arctic experience that’s not overly strenuous or complicated, this tour provides a memorable taste of the wilderness. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy animals, are prepared for winter weather, and want a hassle-free way to explore Lapland’s snowy forests.

While the lack of included outdoor gear requires some planning, the warmth of the staff, the engaging kennel visit, and the thrill of the sled ride add up to a rewarding adventure. Whether you’re with family, friends, or traveling solo, this experience can be a highlight of your Lapland trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is winter clothing included? No, winter outerwear is not included, so you’ll need to dress warmly in layers suitable for cold weather.
• What is the duration of the tour? It lasts about 135 minutes, including transportation, kennel visit, and sled ride.
• Are the sleds suitable for beginners? Yes, the ride is described as suitable for those with a low threshold for sledding, making it accessible to beginners.
• Is it possible to share a sled with other people? Only single travelers are expected to share their sleds with outsiders; your group will generally have its own.
• What’s included in the price? Guided husky ride of either 3km or 5km, kennel visit with informative talk, hot juice and cookies, and transfers from key points in Rovaniemi.
• Are transfers included? Yes, pickups and drop-offs are provided from central locations like Santa’s Husky Rides, Hostel Café Koti, or K-Market Sinettä.
• What should I bring? Dress warmly in layers, including gloves, hats, and thermal clothing. Snow goggles are not provided.
• Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 7 days in advance for a full refund.
• Is this experience family-friendly? While not explicitly marketed as for children, it’s generally suitable for families, provided everyone is dressed warmly.
• How many people are typically in a group? The tour is designed for individual or small groups, with some sharing arrangements for single travelers.

If you’re after an all-around enjoyable, genuine sledding experience that balances fun with education, this tour might just be what you’re looking for. It’s a straightforward way to connect with Lapland’s wilderness, meet the incredible huskies, and take home stories of Arctic adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: