Saariselkä: Arctic Trail Horse Riding Tour

If you’re dreaming of drifting through snowy forests on a gentle horse under the vast, silent skies of Lapland, this Arctic Trail Horse Riding Tour might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally saddled up in Saariselkä, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of an experience that balances scenic beauty, expert guidance, and a relaxed pace—ideal for nature enthusiasts and first-time riders alike.

What we love about this tour is how it offers intimate access to pristine wilderness without requiring prior riding experience. The chance to ride through quiet trails, breathe in crisp, unspoiled air, and then unwind with hot drinks afterward all sound like true Arctic highlights. One potential consideration is that it’s not designed for children under 12 or for pregnant women, so it’s best suited for adults seeking a peaceful, nature-based escape.

This tour is perfect if you’re after a gentle, scenic adventure that allows you to connect with the Arctic environment without the adrenaline rush of more intense activities. It’s also ideal if you appreciate knowledgeable guides who share local insights, and if you’re looking for a small group setting for a more personalized experience.

Good To Know

• Relaxed, slow-paced riding suitable for beginners and experienced riders
• Authentic wilderness experience in untouched Lapland nature
• Expert guidance ensuring comfort and safety throughout
• Small group size (limited to 4 participants) for a more personalized feel
• Includes hot drinks and refreshments to unwind after riding
• No prior riding experience needed; friendly Finnish horses and guided instruction

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Authentic Arctic Horseback Experience

The Saariselkä Arctic Trail Horse Riding Tour offers a tranquil journey through the snowy woods of Lapland. The experience is hosted by Polaris Point Horses, situated conveniently between Saariselkä and Ivalo. This farm is where your Arctic adventure begins, with friendly Finnish horses and a professional guide ready to make your ride memorable.

From the moment you arrive, the process emphasizes safety and comfort. You’re provided with a helmet and introduced to the horses—an important step for those unfamiliar with riding. As reviews highlight, guides like Maria are well-trained and attentive, giving clear instructions and ensuring even absolute beginners feel at ease. Maria’s friendly manner and local knowledge elevate the experience, making it more than just a ride — it’s an educational journey into the local environment.

The horses themselves are described as gentle and well-trained, a critical detail for newcomers. The ride takes place on small trails, leading into the quiet woods where the snow muffles sound and the landscape feels untouched. The pace is deliberately slow and relaxed, allowing you to breathe in the clean winter air and admire the snow-covered trees, frozen lakes, and possibly even spotting Arctic wildlife.

What the Ride Entails

The tour lasts about 60 minutes of riding in the forest, giving ample time to enjoy the landscape without feeling rushed. Reviews consistently mention how peaceful and calming the ride is, with guests describing it as “magical” and “the highlight of their trip.” One reviewer, Emad, shared that riding through the snow-covered forest was “a magical experience,” while Romana called it “one of the best experiences in Lapland.”

Guides like Maria pay close attention to newer riders, always making sure everyone is comfortable. The slow pace allows you to focus on your surroundings rather than controlling the horse—perfect for those who want to relax and enjoy nature. Since there’s no traffic or noise, you can truly disconnect and appreciate the stillness of the Arctic wilderness.

The Post-Ride Warm-Up

After the ride, everyone gathers indoors at the farm to enjoy hot drinks and refreshments. This is a lovely way to unwind, share impressions, and reflect on your experience. The indoor setting provides a cozy contrast to the snowy landscape outside and makes for a welcoming end to your ride.

Practical Details and Value

Priced at $131 per person, this experience offers excellent value considering what’s included: a helmet, detailed riding instruction, an hour of riding, and hot drinks. The small group size (limited to four guests) guarantees personalized attention, which many reviewers appreciate. The tour’s duration is flexible, with check-in times available depending on availability, making it adaptable to your travel plans.

A notable point is that the tour does not include transportation, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to Polaris Point Horses farm—a roughly 25-minute drive from Saariselkä or 40 minutes from Ivalo. Travelers should come prepared with outdoor clothing suitable for cold weather, and be sure to wear comfortable winter shoes that fit under a helmet.

It’s worth mentioning that the tour isn’t suitable for children under 12 or pregnant women, and there are weight restrictions (over 254 lbs / 115 kg isn’t permitted), ensuring safety for all participants.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

What Reviewers Say

Guests rave about the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Maria, in particular, receives many compliments; as one reviewer noted, she “explains a lot about the forest and nature,” making the experience educational as well as enjoyable. Reviewers also appreciate the stunning scenery—snow-laden trees, peaceful trails, and the sense of being completely immersed in Arctic nature.

Many describe the ride as peaceful and relaxing. Emad mentions it as “a magical experience,” perfect for families with kids aged 7 and 10, who loved the snow-covered environment. Romana called it “one of the best in Lapland,” emphasizing how special this slow-paced ride can be.

The Sum Up

The Saariselkä Arctic Trail Horse Riding Tour offers an authentic, peaceful way to explore Lapland’s winter landscape. It’s an experience rooted in calmness and scenic beauty, guided expertly by friendly local guides like Maria. The combination of gentle horses, pristine forests, and cozy post-ride refreshments makes it ideal for travelers looking to connect with nature in a relaxed setting.

This tour is well-suited for those who want a low-stress yet memorable Arctic adventure, especially if you prefer small groups and personalized attention. It’s also perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a quiet, scenic ride without the rush or adrenaline of more intense activities.

The value lies not just in the scenery but in the quality of guidance and the genuine connection to Lapland’s wilderness. If you’re craving a slow, scenic, and immersive Arctic experience, this horseback ride could be the highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is prior riding experience required? No, this tour is designed to be accessible for beginners and doesn’t require any previous riding experience. The horses are described as steady and well-trained, making it suitable for all comfort levels.

How long is the ride? The actual horseback riding lasts around 60 minutes in the forest, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace.

What should I wear? It’s advisable to wear outdoor clothing suitable for cold weather, including warm winter shoes that fit under a helmet. A small hat or scarf can also help keep you warm.

Are children allowed? No, this experience isn’t suitable for children under 12 years old.

Can pregnant women participate? No, this tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women for safety reasons.

What is included in the price? The price covers a helmet, detailed riding instructions, an hour of riding, and hot drinks afterward.

Where do I meet for the tour? The meeting point is at Polaris Point Horses farm, about 25 minutes from Saariselkä or 40 minutes from Ivalo, depending on your location.

Do I need to arrange transportation? Yes, you’re responsible for your own transfer to and from the farm.

Is the activity weather-dependent? Yes, the ride takes place in winter conditions, so dress appropriately, and be aware that heavy snow or severe weather could affect schedules.

In summary, if you’re seeking a peaceful, scenic experience that combines the magic of Arctic nature with the gentle thrill of horseback riding, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s a genuine way to slow down and enjoy Lapland’s winter beauty, guided by experts and surrounded by stunning scenery.

You can check if your dates are available here: