Saariselkä: Arctic Trail Horse Riding Tour

Discover the Peace of Lapland with the Arctic Trail Horse Riding Tour

If you’re dreaming of exploring Lapland’s pristine wilderness on horseback, this Arctic Trail Horse Riding Tour might just be the experience for you. While we haven’t personally saddled up in Finland’s snowy forests, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a compelling picture of what this adventure offers. It’s a chance to slowly traverse snow-covered trails, breathe in the crisp Arctic air, and connect with the land in a calm, natural way.

What really makes this tour stand out is its relaxed pace and the knowledgeable guides who make novices feel comfortable from the start. Plus, the scenery — untouched forests blanketed in snow — sounds like something out of a winter fairytale. On the flip side, it’s not a high-energy, adrenaline-packed ride, so if you’re craving a thrill or are looking for something fast-paced, this might not be your best fit.

This experience suits anyone who appreciates gentle, scenic adventures, especially those wanting a calming, guided encounter with nature. It’s particularly well-suited for beginners, families with older children, or anyone craving a peaceful break in the wilderness without the pressure of speed or technical riding skills.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Gentle, relaxed horseback riding through snowy forests, ideal for beginners.
• Expert guides who explain the local environment and ensure rider comfort.
• Unspoiled natural scenery that makes for memorable, peaceful moments.
• Includes hot drinks and refreshments afterward for a cozy ending.
• Small group size (limited to 4 participants) for personalized attention.
• Easy to book with flexible cancellation policies—cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

An Honest Look at the Arctic Trail Horse Riding Tour

This two-hour adventure at Polaris Point Horses farm offers a chance to experience Lapland’s quiet beauty on horseback, without the rush or noise of everyday life. Located between Saariselkä and Ivalo, the farm makes a convenient starting point, and the experience is perfect for those who want to enjoy the outdoors in a relaxed, unhurried manner.

What to Expect from the Ride

When you arrive, you’ll be fitted with a helmet and introduced to the Finnish horses, which are known for their steadiness and gentle nature. The guides take the time to explain how to ride and ensure you’re comfortable before setting off. The pace is deliberately slow, allowing everyone to breathe in the crisp winter air, admire the snow-dusted trees, and enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness.

The ride takes you along small trails that weave through the forest, far from any traffic or noise. You will be riding your own horse, with others in the group, all supervised by a professional guide who provides steady instruction and local insights.

Riders praised the guide, Maria, for her attentiveness and friendliness. One reviewer called her “an amazing guide, and tutor for those who have not ridden before,” emphasizing how well she made beginners feel comfortable. The horses themselves received high praise, described as “gentle” and “well-trained,” which is reassuring if you’re new to riding.

The Scenic Beauty

Expect stunning winter scenery: snow-covered trees, calm forests, and the peaceful silence that only Lapland’s wilderness can offer. Multiple reviews mention the “magical” quality of riding through a forest blanketed in snow, feeling like you’re in a winter wonderland. This type of scenery can be especially captivating if you’re seeking a scenic escape that’s not overly touristy.

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Post-Ride Comfort and Reflection

After the ride, you’ll return to the farm to relax indoors with hot drinks and refreshments, which adds a cozy touch to this outdoor adventure. It’s a good opportunity to chat with your guide, share your impressions, and feel the warmth after being in the cold.

Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal if you’re after a peaceful, scenic experience rather than a high-adrenaline adventure. It’s perfect for beginners, given the slow pace and attentive guides, and for those who want to enjoy the winter landscape without rushing. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate small group settings, as it’s limited to four participants, making it more intimate.

However, it’s not designed for children under 12, pregnant women, or travelers over 115 kg (254 lbs). If you’re these groups or seeking a more intense activity, you’ll want to look elsewhere.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Meeting and Preparation

Your day begins at Polaris Point Horses farm, where you check in and are provided with a helmet. The staff are friendly and ready to help you get comfortable. The guide will explain how to ride Finn horses, known for their strength and calm demeanor, which makes them excellent companions for a leisurely ride.

The Ride Itself

Once mounted, you’ll set off along small forest trails. The ride lasts at least 60 minutes, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and the rhythmic sound of hooves crunching snow. The slow pace is perfect for absorbing the winter landscape and feeling immersed in nature.

The guide’s explanations include insights about the forest and local environment, adding context and making the experience more enriching. Reviews confirm that guides are attentive and focus on rider safety and comfort.

The Return and Refreshments

After the ride, everyone heads back to the farm for hot drinks and snacks. This part of the experience is relaxed and social, giving you space to reflect and share your impressions. The indoor setting is warm and welcoming, making it a perfect way to wind down.

Practical Details and Considerations

• The tour lasts approximately two hours, including check-in and refreshments.
• The group size is small, capped at four, ensuring personalized attention.
• Price is $131 per person, which covers the ride, helmet, guide, and drinks.
• You need to bring outdoor clothing suitable for winter weather. No special riding gear is necessary, but regular winter walking shoes and warm layers are recommended.
• The farm is about 25 minutes from Saariselkä or 40 minutes from Ivalo if you’re driving yourself.

The Value Proposition

For the price, you get a well-organized, scenic, and educational experience. The fact that it caters to beginners and doesn’t require riding experience is a significant plus. Many reviews highlight how attentive and knowledgeable guides, like Maria, elevate the experience, making it comfortable even for those new to horses.

Authentic Feedback from Participants

Customers consistently praise the guide, with comments like “Maria was fantastic” and “she explained a lot about the forest and nature.” Several reviewers mention how the experience was “magical” and “the highlight of the trip.” The horses also get high marks for their calm nature and good treatment, adding to the overall confidence and enjoyment of the ride.

One guest described the ride as “very peaceful and relaxing,” emphasizing how it felt like a gentle walk through winter’s beauty. Kids loved it too, especially when guided kindly and with patience.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Experience for You?

If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic ride through Finland’s snowy woods, this tour offers a peaceful way to connect with Lapland’s landscape. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate gentle outdoor activities and want a guided, intimate experience without any rush. You’ll love the way the scenery feels straight out of a storybook, and the attentive guidance ensures even first-timers feel comfortable.

Keep in mind that if you’re after a high-energy adventure or planning to travel with very young children, this might not be the best fit. The experience is calm, slow-paced, and focused on enjoying the natural surroundings at a gentle gait.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners? Yes, definitely. The horses are steady, and guides give thorough instructions to ensure everyone feels comfortable.

What should I wear? You should bring outdoor clothing suitable for winter weather. Regular winter shoes and warm layers are recommended; no special riding gear is required.

How long is the ride? The ride lasts at least 60 minutes, within a total experience duration of about two hours, including check-in and refreshments.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making your booking flexible.

Is the tour appropriate for children? It’s not suitable for children under 12, so check age restrictions before booking.

What if I can’t ride well? No worries. The guide provides detailed instructions and support, ensuring beginners are comfortable.

How many people are in each group? The small group size is limited to four participants, so it’s intimate and personalized.

Do I need to arrange transportation? Yes, transportation to the farm is not included, and the location is about 25 minutes from Saariselkä or 40 from Ivalo if driving yourself.

Are there any restrictions? Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people over 115 kg (254 lbs).

This horseback riding experience in Lapland offers a genuine taste of winter’s quiet beauty, guided by professionals who care about your comfort and safety. It’s a wonderful way to slow down, connect with nature, and create lasting memories in the Arctic landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: