Dog Sledding in Alta
We connect you with the most unforgettable, dog-friendly and ethically run husky tours in Alta, Norway. Each tour is carefully selected for quality, animal care and a passion for the Arctic.
ExploreEthical, Dog-Friendly Husky Tours in Alta
Planning a dog sledding tour in Alta? This guide will help you make the most of your Arctic adventure.
Here you’ll find clear, practical information about dog sledding in Alta. Our guide is based on local experience and a passion for ethical travel. Whether you’re dreaming of a daytime ride across snowy plateaus or chasing the northern lights with a team of huskies, this guide is here to support you every step of the way.
What this guide covers
- The best dog sledding tours in Alta, carefully selected
- What to expect before, during and after your tour
- When to go, what to wear and how to prepare
- Tips for families, solo travellers and first-time mushers
- Answers to the most common questions
We believe dog sledding should be ethical, dog-friendly and respectful of the Arctic environment. Every tour featured in this guide is operated by people who care deeply about their huskies, follow high animal welfare standards and run small-scale, responsible tours.
Dog Sledding on the Finnmarksvidda
Your adventure begins in Alta with a transfer to the scenic Gargia mountain area. After changing into warm clothing, you’ll meet your guide and receive a short introduction to dog sledding.
Once ready, you’ll take off with your own team of huskies, sharing the sled if you’re traveling in pairs. The trail leads from snowy pine forests up to the wide-open Finnmarksvidda plateau, offering incredible Arctic views. After about an hour on the sled, return to the cozy Gargia Lodge for hot drinks and stories from your guide.
Highlights
- Drive your own dog sled through untouched Arctic nature
- Learn the basics of mushing with support from expert guides
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Finnmarksvidda plateau
- Small group for a personal and quiet experience
- Family-friendly and suitable for beginners
Includes
- Thermal clothing and boots
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Alta
- Experienced English/Norwegian-speaking guide
- Full mushing instructions and support
- Hot drinks after the tour
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
- Duration:
- 4 hours
Dog Sledding under the Northern Lights
Begin your adventure in Alta with a transfer to the scenic Gargia mountain area. You’ll be provided with warm clothing before meeting your guide for a brief introduction.
Then, you’ll set off with your own team of huskies, sharing the sled if you’re traveling in pairs. Mush through moonlit pine forests and across the snowy plateau, all under the glow of the northern lights.
Highlights
- Mush under the magical northern lights
- Drive your own sled through snowy forests and plateau
- Intimate small‑group experience
- Expert guidance and dog care throughout
- Perfect for couples and night‑time adventurers
Includes
- Thermal clothing and boots
- Hotel pickup and drop‑off in Alta
- Experienced English‑speaking guide
- Full mushing instructions and support
- Hot drinks at the lodge
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
- Duration:
- 4 hours
Other tours
Discover more of Alta with a peaceful whale safari through the fjord, a visit to a Sámi camp where you can meet and feed reindeer, and a guided northern lights hunt under clear Arctic skies.
Whale Watching in Alta
Set off from Alta on a whale watching tour through the stunning Altafjord. Travel on a modern boat with a heated indoor lounge as you take in the peaceful winter landscape, snow-covered mountains and Arctic sky.
check availability
Catch the Aurora borealis in norway
Join an aurora hunting tour in Alta and search for the Northern Lights from carefully chosen viewing spots. Relax under the stars and learn about this natural wonder from your guide.
check availability
Meet and feed the reindeer of alta!
Meet and feed reindeer on a guided experience while learning about Sámi traditions and culture. Enjoy close-up encounters and take memorable photos with these gentle Arctic animals.
check availabilityBest Time to Go Dog Sledding in Alta
The dog sledding season in Alta runs from mid November to early April, depending on snow conditions. Each month offers a different experience. From dark, atmospheric midwinter to brighter, longer days in spring.
What to expect each month
November-December
The start of the season. Expect short days, deep twilight, and a magical, polar-night atmosphere. Northern lights are often visible.
January–February
Peak season. Snow is deep, temperatures are stable, and there’s just enough daylight to enjoy the views. A perfect mix of adventure and comfort.
March–Early April
Longer days and slightly milder weather. Great for families and photographers who want more daylight while keeping the snow experience.
Tips
- Tours run in almost all weather, but layers are key.
- Northern lights tours are best from December through March.
- Daylight increases quickly after mid-January, improving visibility.
What to Wear for Dog Sledding in Alta
Alta’s Arctic climate can be extremely cold, especially during dog sledding tours where you’re sitting still for long periods. Dressing correctly makes all the difference between a magical experience and a freezing one.
Clothing tips
Base layer:
Wear warm, moisture-wicking thermal underwear — both top and bottom.
Mid layer:
Use a thick wool or fleece sweater and insulated pants.
Outer layer:
Your tour will provide thermal overalls and boots, but always bring your own warm outerwear just in case.
Essentials to bring
- Wool socks (bring two pairs)
- Warm gloves or mittens
- A wool hat that covers your ears
- A neck gaiter or buff (better than a scarf)
- Sunglasses for bright days in March–April
- Hand and foot warmers (optional but helpful)
Most tours in Alta provide thermal suits, boots, gloves and hats, but it’s best to wear proper layers underneath to stay comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is dog sledding safe for beginners?
Yes. Most tours are designed for people with no prior experience. Your guide will give full instructions and support before you start.
Can I drive the sled myself?
Yes. On most tours, you and your partner take turns driving the sled while the other rides as a passenger.
Is dog sledding suitable for children?
Yes, some tours are family-friendly. Children usually ride as passengers, and safety gear is always provided. Minimum age depends on the tour.
How cold will it be?
Temperatures can range from –5°C to –25°C. Warm clothing is essential, but most tours provide thermal suits, boots and gloves.
What happens if there’s bad weather?
Tours usually run in all weather conditions unless safety is a concern. If your tour is cancelled due to extreme weather, you’ll be notified and refunded or rescheduled.
Can I see the northern lights during a tour?
Yes, on evening tours, there’s a good chance of seeing the northern lights, especially between December and March. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, many guests do get lucky.
Do the dogs enjoy pulling sleds?
Yes. The huskies are trained and bred for mushing and are happiest when running. All tours recommended in this guide follow high standards of dog welfare.
Still have questions? Read the full FAQ for more details.
Eco-Friendly Travel in the Arctic
We believe unforgettable adventures should leave a lasting impression, not a lasting impact.
Every dog sledding tour featured in this guide is selected with care for the environment. We work only with small-scale, locally based tour providers who prioritize low-impact travel, ethical animal care and the preservation of Alta’s natural landscapes.
What eco-friendly means to us
- Small group tours
Personal experiences with minimal impact on nature - Local ownership
Tours are led by guides who live and work in the region - Respect for animals
Huskies are well cared for throughout the year and genuinely love running - Quiet and clean
No engines, no noise pollution, and no unnecessary fuel use - Cultural awareness
Respect for Sámi lands and traditional ways of life
Dog sledding is one of the most sustainable ways to explore the Arctic. It is silent, powered by huskies and closely connected to the natural rhythm of the region.
By choosing responsible tours, you are not just experiencing the north — you are helping to protect it.