We went to Lapland to try to see the Northern Lights, but the weather didn't cooperate. There was an early snow storm leaving inches of fresh powder. Recalling my research, I asked if there was a dog sled adventure we could try, and the tourist center sent us the link to this business. We signed up to do the 10am Friday tour (1600SEK each), and asked for transport to and from our hotel (an extra 500SEK). With the snow storm, everything was delayed a bit, so we were picked up just after 10am at the hotel. It was about a 15-20 minute drive from downtown Luleå. Once at the house, we waited inside as they were still preparing the dogs. Keijo provided my husband and I with snow suits to cover our other layers, but said that our boots (we had snow boots) would be fine. With another couple, Keijo gave us a short lesson in where to hang on, how to break, and what to do if we tipped over. Then we walked to the area where the 10-dog sled teams were anchored. At first it was disconcerting that all the dogs were barking and loudly, but you soon realize that they were excited to run. As soon as we got situated (one person in the sled under the waterproof cover, one person "driving") and let the anchor go, the dogs were off. For the next couple of hours, we went 12-16km on a beautifully snowy day. The dogs loved running through the fresh powder, barking every time we stopped, and pulling so hard that one's full weight on the break wasn't enough. About half way through, we switched riders/drivers. The dogs followed the path cut by Keijo and Marie through the snow. The path was over the frozen sea, through fields and forests. It was truly magical. I will say that if it is windy and snowing, a pair of goggles would be helpful so that the snow doesn't sting your eyes. After the sledding, we got a few minutes in the yard to thank our teams and play with the puppies. Then we went inside for a fika - coffee/tea and pastry. Keijo told us the stories of how long he'd been racing dogs, his best leader dog ever, how he trains, what he does in the summers, and more. Apparently he won every race in middle distance for 12 years, then every sprint race for 10. His goal is to compete in the Iditarod in a few years, so he's the real deal. Definitely a bucket list experience, not to be missed! read more

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