Horseback riding in Alta: Arctic ranch with forest trails

The only sound is the horse's footsteps in the snow.

Horseback riding at Flatmoen Farm, a working arctic ranch 10 minutes from Alta, where you pick your horse, groom it, then ride forest trails at your own pace depending on your level. Hotel pickup and drop-off included. The ride lasts about two hours and ends with coffee and a snack at the farm. English and Norwegian-speaking guides lead small groups. Helmets provided. Not suitable for travelers with spinal injuries or pregnant travelers.

The experience

Flatmoen Farm sits in quiet surroundings with wilderness on three sides, just outside Alta. You'll be picked up from your accommodation and driven to the ranch, where you meet the horses and learn how each one moves and responds. The farm keeps its animals calm and safe. You'll get a helmet before heading out. From there, the pace is entirely yours: walk, trot or gallop depending on your comfort and experience. The forest trails wind through trees heavy with snow, and the only sounds are the horse's breath and hoofbeats on the path.

These woods are known for moose, so there's a real chance of spotting one if you're lucky. The ride takes about two hours total, and when you come back to the farm, you'll sit on the porch with coffee and something to eat before heading back to town. Beginners and nervous riders do well here because the guide adjusts the speed to match the group. You're never pushed to go faster than you want.

What’s included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off from Alta.
• horse and helmet.
• grooming instruction before the ride.
• guided forest trail ride at your own pace.
• coffee and a snack at the farm porch after the ride.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 10:00

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (9 and older) · Under 9: can't be booked

GroupUp to 4

Live guideEnglish and Norwegian

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 4 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Flatmoen Natur

Is this one for you?Book this if you want to ride at your own speed without pressure to keep up: the guide adjusts everything to match your level, so beginners and nervous riders feel as welcome as experienced ones.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Norwegian.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the riding like if I've never been on a horse before?

Beginners set the pace entirely. You can walk the whole way if that's what feels right. The horses at Flatmoen are trained to be as safe and calm as possible, and the guide will match your speed to your comfort level, not the other way around.

Do I need to know how to ride already?

No. The activity is designed for riders of all levels. You'll groom your horse first, which helps you get comfortable with it, and then head out at whatever speed suits you.

What happens if I'm nervous about horses?

The farm starts you in the pasture to pick and groom your horse before riding, so you build confidence on the ground first. The guide keeps the group small and adjusts everything to your comfort.

Is there really a chance of seeing moose?

Yes, the forest trails are in moose country, so sightings do happen, though they're never guaranteed. It's one of the things that makes riding here different from other trails.

What's included in the price?

Hotel pickup and drop-off, the horse, helmet, grooming instruction, the guided ride, and coffee with a snack at the farm when you return. All fees and taxes are included.