Whether you’re a dog lover or not, these huskies are sure to win your heart! Read on for the five reasons why I recommend this farm and how to make the most of your visit.
Why Husky Park Arctic Circle in Santa Claus Village is Special
You may wonder if such a tourist hotspot can offer an authentic experience. My honest answer is YES, and here’s why:
1. Spacious and Clean Kennels
At Husky Park Arctic Circle, the kennels are large and clean. The dogs have separate areas—one for the smaller dogs (for safety reasons you should not wear gloves here!) and another for the working huskies. In the smaller area there’s sometimes “puppies”, dams (mother dogs) and “retirement” dogs so you can meet some of the cutest new additions and older, well-loved members of the pack.
2. Husky Hugging Area: A Heartwarming Experience
One of the highlights of visiting Husky Park is the husky hugging area. This unique feature allows visitors to interact closely with the huskies in a relaxed environment. You can pet them, take photos, and enjoy their company. You can also use the time to ask more question to the staff and learn more about the huskies and the place!
Important tips for the hugging area:
- Be cautious with small children, as the dogs can get excited, especially if they smell food.
- If you’re wearing white or light-colored clothes, prepare for some paw marks—the huskies love to jump!
- While this experience is heartwarming, always be mindful of the dogs’ energy, and keep your belongings, especially gloves, secure. Actually you should not wear gloves here either! Huskies are playful and might think your gloves are toys!
- Occasionally, there are even puppies in the hugging area, which makes for an adorable addition to the experience!
3. Friendly and Caring Staff
The staff at Husky Park Arctic Cirlce are not only friendly but are genuinely passionate about taking care of the dogs. It’s easy to see that they prioritize the huskies’ well-being, which makes the entire experience feel more authentic and enjoyable.
And I really think for tourist is important that the staff not only offer an unforgettable experince for people but they take good care of the dogs working here, right?
4. Ethical Practices and Ecological Efforts
Husky Park is committed to running ethical and sustainable husky sled ride. They follow strict guidelines to ensure the dogs’ safety, especially in extreme weather. For example, during the warmer months, they offer “husky on wheels” tours but will cancel rides if the temperatures and moisture are too high for the dogs’ health.
Another aspect worth mentioning is that the huskies’ well-being is the top priority. That’s why the dogs are picked one by one from the kennels and harnessed to their own place infront of the sled– If you are available to witness this process it’s also worth paying attention!
After this, each selected dogs will cover a total of 30–60 km, depending on its condition. Even during the busy winter season, the dogs have sufficient rest days. By booking your ride in advance, you’re not only securing your spot but also helping the farm manage the number of rides each day, ensuring the huskies are not overworked.
5. Huskies’ Safety and Ride Conditions
During my autumn visits, I’ve experienced husky sled rides on wheels. It’s important to note that the farm has strict policies about the temperatures in which the dogs can run as I mentioned before. Rides are canceled if the conditions aren’t suitable for the dogs. It’s also mandatory to wear protective glasses as there might me some stones flying! In spring, when conditions are ideal, they still limit the number of rides to ensure the dogs get adequate rest.
You will always receive instructions on how to sit on the sled and keep your hands and feet inside the sled for safety!
Essential Tips for Husky Rides in Finland
If you’re thinking of visiting a husky farm in Rovaniemi or elsewhere in Lapland, here are some things you should keep in mind:
1. Book in Advance
Husky rides are one of the most popular winter activities in Finland, and they sell out fast! Whether you’re planning a 1km or a longer journey, make sure to secure your spot ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
2. Be Ready for the Speed
At the start of your ride, the huskies will run fast!- You will feel the speed! Don’t worry, though. They’ll eventually slow down as the ride progresses, and they’ve been trained to stop if another sled is in front. The ride may feel short, but the experience is unforgettable!
For shorter rides, like the 1km or 5km options mushers are usually in control of the sled, the duration is brief, but the thrill is real. For a longer and more authenthic adventure, consider booking a 15km ride. Some of the farms offer the experience where you get to control the sled yourself- I have done this in Muonio with Hariniva Adventure Resort!
- Addditional note: Huskies can run at speeds ranging from 16 to 48 kilometers per hour (10 to 30 miles per hour) when pulling a sled, depending on several factors such as their breed, age, training, and the conditions of the terrain
Average Speed: In a typical sled dog race, huskies might maintain an average speed of 13 to 19 kilometers per hour (8 to 12 miles per hour) over long distances.
Sprint Races: In sprint races, some well-trained huskies can reach speeds of up to 32 to 48 kilometers per hour (20 to 30 miles per hour) for short bursts.
The speed will also vary based on factors such as the weight of the sled, the number of dogs pulling, and weather conditions..
3. Duration of the ride & prices
Jenga (500 m) Husky ride
- Ride’s duration is a couple of minutes
- 45 €/adult, 35 €/child (4 – 12 years). The price includes also the Husky Park entrance fee.
Tiny Quarter (2 km) Husky ride + Husky Park
Ride’s duration is about 8 min
Visit 59 €/adult, 45 €/child (4-12 years). The price includes also the Husky Park entrance fee.
The Feeling Five (5 km) Husky ride
- Ride’s duration is about 15 minutes
99 €/adult, 79 €/child (4-12 years)
Except on 10.1.2025. – 10.2.2025 (high season) 109 €/adult, 89 €/child (4-12 years). The price includes also the Husky Park entrance fee.
4. Pay Attention to the Weather
Certain weather conditions can affect your ride. For example:
- In autumn, if it’s too hot or humid, rides may be canceled to protect the huskies.
- In winter or spring, riding after fresh snowfall is magical, as the snow-covered trees create a fairytale atmosphere. But during spring, fluctuating temperatures can cause snow to fall from trees, making the scenery less picturesque.
Remember to dress warmly! Wear gloves, as the combination of cold air, wind, and speed can make your hands freeze, and also note that phone batteries may die quickly in the cold.
