Alta: Dog Sledding Trip under the Northern Lights

Key Points

• Experience a 4-hour dog sledding adventure on Finnmarksvidda with your own husky team.
• Enjoy expert guidance and complete training, suitable for participants aged 8 and above.
• Travel in small groups limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Relish warm clothing, hot drinks, and local stories at the historic Gargia mountain lodge.
• See the Northern Lights shimmering above during your outdoor journey, weather permitting.
• Transport is included from Alta to Gargia and back, making logistics hassle-free.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Alta’s Dog Sledding Adventure with Huskies

This $405-per-person tour in Alta, Norway, offers a 4-hour experience that combines exhilarating dog sledding with cultural storytelling. The trip starts with pick-up from Alta and transportation to the Gargia lodge, about 30 minutes away. Here, participants receive warm Arctic clothing—thermal suits, boots, and gloves—to stay comfortable during the outdoor segment.

The highlight is commanding your own team of huskies, which is an immersive activity that appeals to those eager to try mushing firsthand. The tour is perfect for individuals aged 8 and above, with minimum age for solo riding being 16. Because the trip is limited to 8 people, it maintains a cozy group size, encouraging interaction with guides and dogs alike.

Discover the Scenic Routes of Finnmarksvidda

Your sledding journey takes you through pine forests, across frozen lakes, and along rushing rivers on the Finnmarksvidda plateau. The route length is approximately 50 minutes outdoors, but the overall experience lasts around 4 hours including transportation, briefing, and warming up.

You’ll first learn the basics of dog sledding from experienced guides, who ensure you understand how to handle the sledge before setting off. The huskies energize the ride as they lead you through stunning Arctic scenery, with the chance to see the Northern Lights overhead during the evening hours, weather permitting.

Personal Huskies and Mushing Training

Guides provide thorough training on dog mushing and explain how the huskies work as a team. Guests take turns driving if in pairs, making this activity accessible whether you want to mush the dogs yourself or simply enjoy riding. The huskies are eager and well cared for, and guides assist with dressing and undressing the dogs, ensuring their comfort.

At the end of the outdoor run, you get to meet the huskies up close, giving them treats and observing their friendly nature. This personal interaction enhances the overall experience, emphasizing the bond between humans and working dogs.

The Cozy Gargia Mountain Lodge

After approximately an hour outdoors, you retreat to the historic Gargia lodge to warm up. Here, guests can enjoy hot coffee and tea while listening to guides share insights about dog sledding and local history. The lodge provides a welcome break from the Arctic cold, giving everyone time to relax and reflect on the adventure.

The storytelling adds cultural depth to the experience, connecting guests to the history of dog sledding and the importance of huskies in Arctic life. The lodge setting provides a comfortable atmosphere for sharing stories and photos.

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Flexibility and Ease of Booking

This tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for travelers. You can reserve now and pay later, which makes planning easier without upfront commitment. The start times vary, so checking availability is recommended to find a slot that suits your schedule.

Meet-up takes place at the Adventure Store inside Canyon Hotell at Markedsgata 6, Alta. The activity ends back at the same location, simplifying logistics without need for additional arrangements.

Expert Guides and Support

Guides such as Adam, Linda, Enrico, and others are praised for their knowledgeable, friendly approach. They provide clear instructions and are attentive to participants’ needs, whether answering questions or assisting with gear. Reported experiences highlight how patient guides make the activity enjoyable for all skill levels.

The small group size ensures personalized attention, enhancing safety and engagement during the activity.

Practical Considerations for Participants

Participants should bring warm clothing suitable for Arctic weather. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, mobility impairments, or those over 287 lbs (130 kg). It also requires a low to moderate fitness level and is not recommended for children under 8 or people over 95 years old.

Since the activity involves outdoor sledding, good physical condition is helpful, but the guides are there to assist with safety and comfort. Alcohol, drinks, and drugs are not allowed during the activity.

Authentic Experiences and Positive Reviews

Reviews consistently rate this tour 5 out of 5, emphasizing the expert guides, the scenic route, and the warmth of the experience. Highlights include driving your own sled, meeting the huskies, and enjoying the snowy landscapes.

One review describes a private, over-90-minute route through forests, lakes, and rivers, with snowing lightly and evening lights adding to the magic. Participants appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see the dogs close up.

Another reviewer mentions how the guide’s love for the huskies makes the sledding exciting, and kit quality is praised for keeping participants warm. The overall feedback confirms this as a well-organized, memorable Arctic adventure.

Alta’s Dog Sledding: Who Will Enjoy It Most?

This tour suits adventurous travelers seeking a hands-on, active experience in Arctic scenery. It’s ideal for animal lovers and those interested in local culture. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, making it especially appealing for families, couples, or solo travelers.

Since the guides are very knowledgeable and friendly, even first-timers find this activity accessible and enjoyable. The scenic route and chance to see the Northern Lights add a magical touch, though the aurora is weather-dependent.

Final Thoughts on Alta’s Dog Sledding Trip

The $405 fee covers transport, clothing, training, and the outdoor sledding experience, which many find to be good value given the quality and intimacy of the activity. The personal connection with the huskies and cultural storytelling at Gargia lodge create a well-rounded Arctic experience.

While not suitable for everyone due to physical or health considerations, this tour offers a genuine, hands-on dog sledding adventure in a stunning environment. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to try mushing, enjoy spectacular winter scenery, and possibly witness the Northern Lights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can children participate in this dog sledding tour?
Children age 8 and above can join, but solo riding is only available for those 16 and over. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Is the Northern Lights guaranteed to be seen?
No, the appearance of the Aurora Borealis depends on weather conditions. The activity is scheduled during evenings when the lights are most likely, but sightings cannot be assured.

What should I bring for the outdoor sledding?
Participants should bring warm clothing suitable for Arctic temperatures, including thermal suits, boots, gloves, and hats provided if not already included.

How long does the actual dog sledding last?
The outdoor sledding takes approximately 50 minutes, but the entire experience, including transportation, briefing, and lodge time, lasts around 4 hours.

Is this activity suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the activity requires physical mobility and is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or those over 287 lbs.

What is included in the price?
The price covers dog sledding, training, gear and clothing, transportation, hot drinks, and storytelling at Gargia lodge.

This detailed review aims to give a clear picture of what to expect from the Alta Dog Sledding under the Northern Lights tour. It blends practical information with honest insights, helping prospective travelers decide if this Arctic adventure fits their interests and needs.

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