Kiruna: Husky Sled Ride & Fire Hut Snack with Pickup

Summary

Lapland sled adventure with huskies, cozy fireside snacks, and snowy forest silence

You’ll ride deep into Lapland’s snowy forests on a husky sled with an experienced local guide (no driving needed), meet and feed the dogs afterward, then thaw out by an open fire with snacks and hot drinks. Includes pickup from Kiruna and all winter gear—just bring your sense of adventure and maybe an extra pair of socks.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound—dozens of huskies yipping and howling in the cold air, tails wagging so hard they nearly knocked over a bucket. We’d just arrived at Snowdog, about 17km outside Kiruna (they picked us up right from our hotel, which was a relief because it’s seriously remote). The guide, Li, handed me these massive boots and laughed when I tried to pronounce “Poikkijärvi”—I think I got it wrong every time. The air actually felt sharp on my cheeks, like tiny needles, but somehow that made everything more real.

Sitting on the sled was different than I expected—less like a theme park ride, more like slipping into someone else’s world for a couple hours. Four of us tucked under blankets while our guide wrangled the team of Alaskan Huskies. The dogs were pure muscle and fluff; you could feel their excitement vibrating through the sled before we even started moving. When we finally took off into the woods, all I heard was paws crunching on snow and this weird peaceful silence between barks. I kept trying to spot reindeer or moose through the trees (no luck), but honestly just watching the sun turn everything pastel pink was enough.

Afterward, we helped feed the dogs—big chunks of frozen meat that disappeared in seconds—and then shuffled into a wooden hut where someone had already got a fire going. My gloves smelled faintly of dog fur and woodsmoke. We sat around sipping hot coffee and eating snacks; there wasn’t much talking at first, just that comfortable tiredness you get after being out in real weather. I still think about that warmth against my face after all that cold.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Morning husky sledding experience

• Get collected from Kiruna
• Change into warm clothes
• Travel to Poikkijärvi Woods
• Meet and learn about huskies
• Sit on sled and enjoy ride
• Feed huskies with meat
• Help ready and secure dogs
• Relax at fire hut with snack

Top questions

How far is Snowdog kennel from Kiruna?

The kennel is approximately 17km outside Kiruna’s main tourist center.

Is hotel pickup included for this husky tour?

Yes, free pickup from your accommodation in Kiruna is included.

Do I need to drive the sled myself?

No, an experienced guide drives—you just sit back and enjoy the ride.

What should I wear for this Lapland husky tour?

Dress as warmly as possible; overalls, boots, gloves are provided if needed.

Are snacks or drinks included during the tour?

Yes, you’ll get coffee or tea and snacks by the fire after your ride.

Can children join this husky sled experience?

No children under 6 years old due to low temperatures.

Is it possible to help with the dogs?

You can help ready or secure the dogs if you wish—it’s optional.

How many people share each sled?

Each sled seats up to 4 people plus your guide driving.

What’s included

Your morning includes pickup from Kiruna hotels, warm overalls plus boots and gloves if you need them (seriously helpful in -30°C), a guided husky sled ride through snowy forests near Poikkijärvi, time to meet and feed the dogs afterward if you want to get hands-on, plus coffee or tea and snacks around an open fire before heading back to town.