Riga: Husky Dog Sledding Tour & Forest Walk with Pickup

Summary

Husky sledding near Riga with forest trails, local guides and hot drinks

You’ll get swept up in the energy of real husky dog sledding outside Riga—racing through snowy tracks with local guides cheering you on—then slow down over hot drinks and snacks as your hands thaw out. A peaceful forest walk rounds off your day trip before heading back to the city with tired legs and a full heart.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the barking — sharp, excited, echoing through the cold air before we even saw the huskies. We’d just been picked up in Riga (hotel pickup’s included, which was honestly a relief because I never trust myself to navigate Latvian roads in winter), and after about an hour we pulled up to this clearing where the dogs were already going wild. Our guide, Andris, grinned at us like he knew exactly how nervous I was to try dog sledding for the first time. He handed me these thick gloves and said something about “becoming a musher today.” I laughed but my hands were shaking a bit — not from the cold, just nerves maybe.

I didn’t expect how much you feel every bump on that 3km husky dog sledding track — it’s fast and loud and honestly kind of messy in the best way. The dogs are so strong; you can smell their fur and hear them panting right behind you. At one point snow flew up into my face and for a second all I could see was white and fur and sky. Afterward, Andris poured us hot tea from a battered thermos while his wife handed out these little pastries that tasted faintly of cardamom. My fingers were numb but I couldn’t stop grinning.

We finished with a slow walk through the snowy forest trails — Great Kangari Nature Reserve or Blue Hill, depending on snow (I still don’t know which one we did; I just remember how quiet it was except for our boots crunching). The dogs trotted ahead, tails high. There was this moment where everything felt still except for our little group — it sticks with me more than the adrenaline part somehow. So yeah, if you’re looking for a day trip from Riga that’s got both chaos and calm, this husky tour is kind of perfect. Even if you butcher every Latvian word like I did.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Husky sledding and forest walk

• Meet guides and husky team
• Receive sled and dog instructions
• Experience 3km husky dog sledding
• Enjoy hot drinks and snacks
• Walk in snowy forest trails

Top questions

How long is the husky dog sledding track near Riga?

The track is around 3km long during the tour.

Is hotel pickup included in this husky sledding tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in Riga.

What happens if there isn’t enough snow for sledges?

If there isn’t enough snow, you’ll go with a dog-cart instead.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the tour?

Yes, hot drinks and snacks are included after sledding.

Where does the forest walk take place?

The walk is along trails in Great Kangari Nature Reserve or Blue Hill.

Is this husky tour suitable for young children?

Specialized infant seats are available but check fitness requirements first.

How many people do you need to book this day trip?

A minimum of 3 people per booking is required.

How will I know if there’s enough snow for sledding?

The tour is approved only one day before based on snow conditions (at least 5cm needed).

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Riga, transport by private vehicle out to meet your husky team, all instructions from your local guide (so don’t worry if you’ve never tried this before), plus hot drinks and snacks after your ride—and finally an easy walk through snowy forest trails before heading back to town.