Dog Sledding in Norway: Experience the Magic of a Dog Sled in the Norwegian Winter Realm
Dog Sledding in Norway: Discover the Adventure of Leading a Dog Sled Through the Winter Landscape
Previously, dog sledding was reserved for more northern areas, but now it’s possible to join a dog sled adventure anywhere in the country. The dog sled was long the main mode of transportation in Arctic regions, with dogs used to transport supplies. Now, small planes, helicopters, and snowmobiles have taken over logistics, but the eager polar dogs can still frolic in the wilderness on dog sled tours.
Polar Dogs Who Love Speed
The dogs used for dog sledding are of the Alaska Husky breed, and they love to run. They get excited every time they know they are going out on a new trip, as they have a lot of energy. Polar dogs are truly in their element when they can run freely in nature, which has led to the popularity of dog sled tours throughout Norway. Driving a dog sled is a combination of getting close to nature while working together with the dogs. It’s an intense experience, whether you choose to drive the sled yourself or sit on with an experienced driver.
It’s not as difficult as it looks to pull a dog sled. Dog sledding is actually suitable for anyone who wants to try, but as a rule of thumb, small children cannot go on trips alone. During a guided tour, be prepared for a fast pace, but you will be well equipped with the right clothes. Most dog sledding providers have warm suits, hats, mittens, thick shoes, and many blankets of wool and leather so that all participants can enjoy themselves without freezing.
Summer Sledding
If you haven’t had the chance to experience the winter magic from a dog sled, don’t despair. There is just as much demand in the summer! The happy polar dogs need exercise year-round, and in the summer, the sleds are replaced with a wheeled cart. These carts are the same type used by experienced professionals to train their dogs before competitions, or to maintain their condition through the summer. You will have the opportunity to try dog sledding in most places in Norway during the summer months, which can be an adrenaline-filled activity for the whole family.
Dog Sledding in Northern Norway
Northern Norway has deep roots in dog sledding, and with its beautiful winter nature, you will experience an eldorado for dog sledding. It is possible to try dog sledding around Finnmark, Troms, and Lofoten, and many operators combine them with Northern Lights experiences. Get ready for an insight into long traditions, happy husky dogs, and lots of speed while the Northern Lights dance in the sky and the world around is a true snow paradise. You can of course also join in rolling during the summer, as operators offer dog sledding at all hours due to the midnight sun. In the summer, you can also visit the wonderful Husky Café at Tromsø Wilderness Center. Here, four-legged beauties run freely around and are more than happy to be petted by guests, and you can also join in on puppy training for an extra authentic experience.
Dog Sledding in the Rest of Norway
Everywhere you find a ski paradise in winter, you will also find exciting activities like dog sledding. Around Hallingdal, such as Geilo, Nesbyen, and Ål, you will be able to find winter happiness with dog sledding when you want a break from the ski slopes. Other ski destinations like Trysil, Hovden, and Beitostølen also offer dog sledding in the winter. It is also possible to combine a delightful food journey to Røros with dog sledding. If you live in Oslo and are short on time, there is even dog sledding in Asker at Bergvang Farm.
Short or Long Trips
The more time you have available, the longer you can join in on dog sledding. Some trips last several days, where you get to stay overnight at wilderness camps along the way. This means even more time in nature where you really get close to the elements. Operators offering overnight trips will provide you with food and everything you need for a comfortable outing, and it will certainly be an experience for life.
If you prefer a shorter trip, it is possible to take a day trip. These vary in length, from one hour to a whole day. Often, you will stop at various places to experience other activities along the way. In Northern Norway, it is often inside a lavvo to listen to stories from Sami shamans under the Northern Lights, while further south, it is often a stop in nature with good food that matters. No matter how much time you have to experience dog sledding, it will be a memory you can carry with you for the rest of your life.
Extra Thrilling Experiences
In addition to having long traditions in dog sledding, Norway is also the arena for two of the world’s most famous dog sled races. Let’s take a closer look at these:
Finnmarksløpet in Alta
This is Europe’s longest dog race. The race starts and ends in Alta, but goes all around Finnmark. There are three different classes for the race; 6-dog team covering 200 km (participants aged 14-18), 8-dog team covering 580 km (participants aged 18+), and 14-dog team covering 1200 km (participants aged 18+). Normally, only around 40 people attempt the longest route of 1200 km, and it usually takes 6-7 days to complete. During the race, Alta transforms into a paradise for dog sledding and lots of four-legged friends. It is definitely worth the trip to Alta to witness Europe’s longest dog race!
Femundløpet in Røros
Norway can also boast of hosting the world’s largest dog race. In Røros city center, you can join in on a thrilling show and get to know some of the many hundreds of participants. Here, it is possible to sign up for the class covering 200 km, 450 km, or 650 km. The longest route goes from Røros over Drevsjø and Trysil before the participants return to Røros. While you wait for the first to cross the finish line, you can go on a small food safari in beautiful Røros!
A Familial Experience
Many choose to spend their vacations in warmer climates, but in recent years, more families have discovered the long country we live in. There is the opportunity to experience all the hidden treasures around, and let children get close to exciting experiences that are found around every corner. A wonderful family activity is dog sledding, as even the smallest children can join on the sled. The children will also likely fall in love with the cuddly huskies who are more than happy to receive a little extra attention. Incorporating dog sledding as a family activity on vacation will definitely be a hit among both big and small, and will create memories you can talk about for years.
Dog sledding is relatively simple, yet still offers high speed and adrenaline. This means the family steps out of their comfort zone in a safe way, and afterward, everyone can sit back with a sense of accomplishment. If you embark on dog sledding in the winter, there will be warm blankets and clothes available for everyone, so that noses can stay dry during the holiday stay. Let the children discover the magic with a Norwegian vacation a bit out of the ordinary, and create unforgettable moments together.
