Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, children aged 3 and older can participate, though those under 12 must be passengers. Young children should be able to sit comfortably in a winter sled for about an hour.

Are guides provided to drive the sled?

This is a self-driven expedition. Drivers are responsible for steering their sleds, but a guide follows on a snowmobile for assistance.

What happens if I can’t drive the sled during the trip?

If you cannot drive, inform the operator in advance; a professional driver can be arranged for an additional fee, subject to availability.

What clothing is provided during the trip?

Thermal suits, boots, and gloves are provided to keep you warm, but dressing in warm layers underneath is necessary.

Can I take photos while driving the sled?

For safety, only passengers can take photos during the ride; drivers must keep both hands free for control.

Are restroom facilities available during the excursion?

During the trail, only outdoor toilets are available at rest stops. However, restaurant facilities with restrooms are accessible before and after the tour.

Husky Sledding Adventure with Star Arctic Hotel in Saariselkä | Winter Activities

Set against the pristine backdrop of Saariselkä, Finland, the Star Arctic Hotel invites adventure seekers to experience Siberian husky sledding through the deep Arctic wilderness. This 10-kilometer expedition offers a rare chance to pilot a sled team yourself, accompanied by seasoned mushers who guide from snowmobiles, ensuring both safety and seamless support.

Saariselkä sits within the Lappi region, an area defined by vast pine forests, frozen rivers, and rolling fells, blanketed in snow during the long winter. The landscape’s clarity and stillness create a focused, almost meditative atmosphere as the sleds carve tracks through a terrain that looks untouched. Here, the star performers are the Siberian huskies, prized for their stamina, thick coats, and intelligence. These dogs are personally cared for by expert mushers who have raced competitively, ensuring the highest welfare standards and a deep bond with their teams.

The self-driven format lets participants share the thrill of steering through frozen trails, switching drivers halfway to fully engage with the ride’s rhythm. A key highlight is a fireside pause in a traditional tipi, offering hot drinks and a chance to connect with the huskies and the raw wilderness.

Post-ride, the adventure culminates with a hearty local lunch featuring soups, freshly baked bread, and seasonal ingredients, served at the Star Arctic Hotel’s warm restaurant. This combination of active wilderness experience and authentic Finnish hospitality makes the trip stand out in Lapland’s outdoor offerings.

Ideal for families (age 3+), couples, or solo travelers seeking a deeper connection to Arctic nature, the Star Arctic Hotel’s expedition balances adrenaline with comfort. It’s a must-try for anyone visiting northern Finland during winter, where the silent white forest presents an unmatched setting for outdoor adventure.

About Star Arctic Hotel

Star Arctic Hotel is a full-service Arctic hotel and activity provider based in Saariselkä, Lapland, served via Ivalo airport. The hotel organizes guided winter experiences that highlight Lapland’s natural beauty and cultural traditions. Offerings include Siberian husky sledding with farm visits, long sled expeditions, aurora hunting by sled, snowshoeing, snowmobiling adventures, reindeer farm visits, ice fishing with sleigh rides, wilderness dinners, and transfers to and from Ivalo airport. Trips vary from short family-friendly options like a 5 km husky sled ride to longer experiences such as 10 km expeditions and multi-hour snowmobile tours.

Experienced local guides and professional mushers lead activities, provide safety briefings, and deliver warm beverages and traditional refreshments during breaks. Several programs include hands-on moments — switching drivers on the sled, meeting husky teams, feeding reindeer, and learning ice-fishing techniques. Seasonal highlights include aurora hunting excursions by husky, snowmobile, car, heated sleigh, and on foot, offering multiple ways to seek the Northern Lights. The hotel also facilitates cultural visits such as the Siida Museum day trip and the Tankavaara Gold Museum tour with lunch.

Star Arctic Hotel lists transfers to and from Ivalo airport and accommodates families, beginners, and experienced adventurers. Booking options include short discoveries, half-day outings, and longer tours. The business emphasizes animal care, local knowledge, clear safety procedures, and memorable Arctic experiences that showcase Lapland’s winter landscapes and traditions. Guests can combine activities into tailored itineraries, book seasonal special programs, and receive practical advice for Arctic clothing and arrival logistics, and local transport options.