Led by the Pack: A Husky Snowshoe Through Swedish Lapland
Three hours of snow, dogs, and Arctic clarity—perfect for curious travelers who want to feel winter move beneath their feet.
The morning light in Swedish Lapland arrives as a pale suggestion, silvering the birch trunks and setting the snowfields to a hard, glassy hush. We strap on snowshoes as steam beads at the corners of our mouths, and from the kennel a chorus of eager barks rises like an engine warming. The dogs—thick-coated, bright-eyed Siberian and Alaskan huskies—bounce forward in short, impatient bursts, tails and tongues declaring a readiness that feels contagious. When you clip a belt to a harness and let one of these dogs pull, you aren’t merely following a trail; you’re joining a partnership that rewrites what it means to move through the Arctic.
Trail Wisdom
Layer for variable conditions
Temperatures can swing and wind makes it feel colder—use a wicking base, warm mid-layer, and windproof outer shell.
Footwear traction
Use insulated boots with crampon-compatible soles or add microspikes for icy approaches to the kennel.
Hydration and snacks
Cold suppresses thirst—carry an insulated bottle and calorie-dense snacks to maintain energy.
Follow the guide’s commands
Dogs respond to predictable handling; obey instructions on harnessing and pacing to keep the team calm and safe.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Short side hikes to frozen riverbanks with strong aurora visibility
- •Visit to a nearby Sami information center or small reindeer enclosure
Wildlife
Reindeer, Ptarmigan
Conservation Note
Operators often run small-scale kennels and advocate for low-impact tourism—stay on trails, avoid feeding wildlife, and follow the guide’s instructions to minimize disturbance.
The region is traditional Sami territory and has long supported reindeer pastoralism; modern kennels are a recent addition to local livelihoods and tourism.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Longer daylight, Early melt photography
Challenges: Slush and unstable snow, Variable trail conditions
Spring brings longer days and softer light but also slushy snow that can make tracks slow; expect wetter conditions by late March–April.
summer
Best for: Midnight sun hikes, Wildflower photography
Challenges: No snow for dog-led snowshoeing, Different activities required
Summer in Lapland is green and luminous—husky hikes by snowshoe are not available; many kennels offer dryland activities or visits instead.
fall
Best for: Aurora season begins, Crisp air and fewer tourists
Challenges: Early snow possible, Cold nights require warm gear
Fall is transitional: expect crisp days and the first snows; some weeks may offer both autumn colors and wintry conditions.
winter
Best for: Snowshoeing with huskies, Northern Lights viewing, Traditional kennel experiences
Challenges: Short daylight in deep winter, Extreme cold risks
Winter is peak season for husky snowshoeing—stable snow and vibrant Arctic light—but prepare for severe cold and limited daylight in December–January.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Insulated waterproof bootsEssential
Keep feet warm and dry on snow and during breaks at the kennel.
Windproof outer shell and pantsEssential
Protects against windchill on exposed snowfields and during windy stretches.
Thermal base layers & hatEssential
Retain core heat during periods of low activity between pulls.
Trekking poles or ski poles
Help with balance in deep snow and on steep, icy approaches.
Common Questions
How long is the husky snowshoe experience?
The activity lasts about three hours total, including briefing, the guided snowshoe with dogs, and time back at the kennel for refreshments.
Do I need previous snowshoeing experience?
No prior experience required—guides provide instruction and the dogs help tow, but basic mobility on snow is helpful.
Will I handle my own dog the entire time?
Participants can be attached to a dog via a belt for much of the hike; guides manage two-person handling protocols and rotate dogs as needed.
What should I wear to stay warm?
Dress in moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating mid-layer, windproof outer shell, warm socks, insulated boots, and bring spare gloves and batteries for electronics.
Are dogs treated humanely?
Reputable kennels emphasize dog welfare—ask your operator about living conditions, rest schedules, and veterinary care if you have concerns.
Is this suitable for children?
Many operators accept children but age/weight limits often apply; check with the provider on minimum ages and safety policies.
What to Pack
Insulated boots (warmth & traction), Windproof jacket (blocks chill), Spare gloves & hat (stay warm during breaks), Insulated water bottle & snacks (prevent dehydration & energy dips)
Did You Know
Kiruna and nearby Jukkasjärvi are north of the Arctic Circle; Jukkasjärvi is home to the original Icehotel, established in the late 1980s.
Quick Travel Tips
Book winter clothing layers in advance; confirm pickup logistics with the operator; carry cash for small purchases though cards are widely accepted; bring extra camera batteries stored close to your body.
Local Flavor
After the hike, warm up like a local: enjoy a simple reindeer stew or smoked fish in a small tavern, grab a strong 'fika' coffee at a Kiruna cafe, and if time allows visit the nearby Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi for artfully carved rooms and a museum on Arctic living.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Kiruna Airport (KRN); Typical drive from Kiruna center to kennels: 20–40 minutes; Cell service: generally available near towns, variable in more remote trails; Permits: none typically required for day activities.
Sustainability Note
Choose kennels that prioritize dog welfare, minimize off-trail travel to protect tundra vegetation, and practice 'leave no trace'—pack out all waste and avoid feeding wildlife.
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