Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended. While clicking these links won't cost you anything, they will help us keep this site running and free for everyone.
There are few winter experiences as magical and exhilarating as husky sledding through the snowy forests of Lapland, and for me, it was at the top of the bucket list. During our early winter trip to Rovaniemi, we joined Bearhill Husky for their Born to Run safari.
If you’re considering a husky safari in Rovaniemi, here’s what our experience with Bearhill Husky was like. I'll go into detail on why it's the best Husky Safari in Rovaniemi, including what the activity involves, our experience and what to wear.
Where is Bearhill Husky?
Bearhill Husky is located about 30 minutes northeast of Rovaniemi, tucked away in the middle of the forest - exactly the kind of setting you'd imagine for an authentic husky safari.
We decided to drive ourselves as we stayed at their onsite cabin (available on airbnb), but the journey was straightforward with a signposted route once you're close.
If you book via Getyourguide, they do include 3 pickup locations around and near Rovaniemi, including Santa Claus Village.
What tours do Bearhill Husky offer?
Bearhill Husky actually offers tours all year-round, each tailored to the changing seasons, so you can visit in summer, autumn, early winter or deep winter.
- Summer tours include a kennel visit plus an 800 m ride on husky-pulled carts.
- Autumn tours include a kennel visit plus either 800 m ride, 5 km ride or 4 km self driven ride.
- Early Winter (November) tours include a kennel visit plus a 4 km cart tour or 45-minute sled ride.
- Winter tours include kennel visits and can include longer sled rides though the Lappish wilderness.
We did the Born to Run Autumn tour as we visited during the end of October, just when the first snow was starting to appear.
Our Experience with the BearHill Husky Tour
The born to run autumn tour is a 3 hour program with a 4 km self-driven husky cart tour through the beautiful Lappish forest. On the day of our tour, it was actually one of the first snows of the year, so it was more wintery than autumn.
When we first arrived, we were welcomed by the friendly team and given a safety briefing in their cosy cabin. We then wrapped up in thermal gear that they provide, which includes overalls, snow boots and gloves - all essential for staying warm during the ride. Once we were suited up, it was time to meet the incredible huskies.
First of all, we had a husky kennel tour. We walked around the site to see where the huskies live while learning all about the life of huskies and their training at Bearhill Husky. The guides were very knowledgeable, friendly and funny; you could ask them anything!
After we had the tour, it was time to experience being pulled by a team of huskies. Each cart had two people, one standing to drive and one sitting inside the cart wrapped up and cosy. You get to swap halfway, so both people get the chance to steer the team.
The husky ride is definitely one of the best things we have ever experienced, the thrill of being pulled by the huskies through a snowy Lappish forest is something we'll never forget!
One mistake we made though is not wearing the gloves they offer - my hands absolutely froze when driving the cart! I wanted to use my own gloves so I could use my camera, but I would definitely recommend wearing the gloves they provide.
The ride itself lasted about 45 minutes, winding through snowy forest paths, with a break in the middle to capture some photos.
After the run, we had time to cuddle the dogs, chat with the guides and warm up by a fire with hot berry juice and ginger biscuits.
The passion the staff have for their dogs really came through, each one had a name, personality and quirks, and you could tell they were treated with care and respect.
Ethical and Sustainable Tourism at Bearhill Husky
One of the things that really stood out was Bearhill Husky’s commitment to ethical sled dog practices. They don’t breed puppies just to show them off to tourists, they only breed when the kennel genuinely needs new dogs.
They also take their responsibility to older dogs seriously, with their retired huskies rehomed to recreational teams, adopted as pets or kept on as puppy trainers.
It was reassuring to see a working husky farm with such a thoughtful, long-term approach to animal welfare. For me, it made the whole experience feel even more special, knowing that these dogs are not just part of a business, but treated with care and respect.
What to Wear on a Husky Safari
Even though Bearhill Husky provides high-quality thermal clothing, it’s still important to dress smartly underneath, especially in early winter when temperatures can drop well below freezing.
When we arrived, we were given insulated overalls, proper snow boots, thick mittens, a neckwarmer and wool socks if needed. Everything was clean, warm, and easy to layer over our own clothes.
Here’s what I wore and would recommend wearing underneath:
- Base layer: Merino wool or thermal top and leggings (avoid cotton - it gets cold when damp)
- Mid layer: Fleece or jacket on top, warm leggings or trousers on the bottom
- Accessories: A scarf or neck warmer, a warm hat that fits under the provided hood and touchscreen gloves to wear under the big mittens (helpful for taking photos)
- Optional: Hand warmers in your gloves or pockets, especially useful if you're prone to cold fingers!
Even in early winter, the wind chill when you’re moving can make it feel much colder, so it’s better to overdress and remove layers later than risk getting cold on the sled.
If you're bringing a camera or phone, make sure it’s protected, batteries drain quickly in the cold!
Is it beginner and family-friendly?
Yes, all of the tours at Bearhill Husky are suitable for first-timers and families. It’s not too long, you get to swap between driving and riding and the guides are there to help throughout. However, you do have to be 17 + to drive the cart yourself.
How much does a Bearhill Husky Safari cost?
The tours range in price depending on length and season. Prices start from €63 for adults and €39.00 for children, and can go up to €200 +.
Is the Bearhill Husky Safari worth it?
Yes, we would say it's 100% worth it, it was one of the most memorable experiences of our trip to Lapland.
We did two husky safaris during our trip to Lapland and this one stood out by far. Not only was the experience more engaging and informative, but the ride itself was longer, and most importantly, we left with complete confidence that the huskies were genuinely well cared for.
It’s beginner-friendly, ethically run and a beautiful way to experience Lapland’s frozen forests - whether you're driving the sled or bundled up as a passenger.
👋 We hope that you found this guide helpful! Before you go - don't forget to read our other Finland travel guides for more tips, suggestions & advice.
