Adventure brief
Drive Your Own Team
Master the art of dog sledding on a thrilling 4.5-hour trek through Swedish Lapland’s snowy wilderness. Learn to lead your own team of huskies, enjoy a traditional Lappish meal, and discover why Active Lapland is a top choice for immersive Arctic adventures.
Located in the far north of Sweden, Kiruna stands as the gateway to the wild expanses of Swedish Lapland, a region defined by stark boreal forests, frozen rivers, and endless snowy horizons. Active Lapland offers an immersive way to engage directly with this Arctic environment through their 4.5-hour "Drive Your Own Team" dog sledding adventure. This isn’t just a ride; it’s a hands-on opportunity to learn the skills of mushing with a team of spirited Alaskan huskies, forging a bond between human and sled dog under expert guidance.
From the moment you grasp the sled’s handlebar at the edge of the forest, the day unfolds across roughly 27 kilometers of diverse terrain — frozen lakes, dense pine stands, and wide-open tundra. The huskies’ eager pace carries you deeper into a genuinely remote wilderness landscape rarely seen by typical visitors. Along the trail, snow-laden branches glitter under winter’s low sun and you might glimpse tracks of local wildlife like reindeer or ptarmigan.
Midway through the journey, the group pauses at a private cabin tucked away in the woods where a traditional Lappish meal awaits. This hearty spread, featuring regional specialties, is a comforting pause that also connects you to Sámi culinary traditions, enriching the cultural thread of the adventure. Active Lapland’s commitment to quality and authenticity stands out in the region’s outdoor tour scene.
Their small group sizes ensure a personalized experience, where every participant can take true command of their sled dog team. Included warm winter gear and seamless transfers from Kiruna hotels make this remote wilderness journey accessible and comfortable. For travelers eager to move beyond passive sightseeing and step into the rhythm and challenge of Arctic mushing, "Drive Your Own Team" with Active Lapland is a standout adventure.
It’s a rare blend of physical engagement, natural beauty, and cultural flavor set in one of Europe’s most pristine wilderness areas.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Master the basics firstessential
Pay close attention during the initial instruction; handling the sled and dogs properly is key to a safe, enjoyable journey.
- 02Dress in layersinfo
Even with warm provided gear, layering allows you to adjust comfort levels throughout the ride and rest stops.
- 03Keep your camera handyinfo
The trail offers numerous photo opportunities—capture huskies in action and stunning Arctic landscapes without delay.
- 04Inform about dietary restrictionsessential
Notify Active Lapland ahead of your trip to accommodate food allergies or preferences during the cabin meal.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Insulated waterproof jacket
Keeps you dry and warm against snow and biting Arctic wind.
winterEssentialThermal base layers
Critical for maintaining body heat during extended exposure to cold outdoors.
winterEssentialSturdy winter boots
Necessary for warmth and traction on icy surfaces during stops and transfers.
winterEssentialGloves with grip
Protect hands from cold while allowing control over sled handles.
winterEssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
The nearby Luossavaara Mountain offers quiet hiking trails with panoramic views., Abisko National Park, known for its unique flora and Northern Lights, is within reach.
Local fauna
Reindeer, Ptarmigan
Historic heritage
The Sámi people have inhabited Swedish Lapland for centuries, with traditional livelihoods closely tied to reindeer herding and the frozen landscape.
Mindful exploration
Active Lapland practices responsible tourism to minimize disturbance to wildlife and preserve natural habitats across their guided tours.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Along frozen lakes on the trail, Near the wilderness cabin, At open tundra stretches overlooking the forests
- Subjects
- Sled dogs in motion, Snow-covered pines, Traditional cabin interiors
- Best times
- Golden hour, Midday for clear light
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need prior dog sledding experience?
No previous experience is necessary; guides provide full instruction and support throughout the trip.
Is the trip suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 2 and up can join, though they must be accompanied by an adult.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Trips proceed in most weather conditions, but Active Lapland prioritizes safety and may reschedule if conditions are unsafe.
Are meals included?
Yes, a traditional Lappish meal with starter, main course, and coffee & cake is served at a wilderness cabin.
How far will we travel on the sled?
Expect to cover approximately 27 kilometers across varied Lapland terrain.
Is warm winter gear provided?
Yes, warm clothing gear is included to ensure comfort throughout the excursion.