Saariselkä: Arctic Trail Horse Riding Tour

Horseback riding in Lapland sounds dramatic on paper, but what makes this tour special is how quiet it feels once you’re outside. You swap city noise for the steady rhythm of hooves on snowy paths, guided at a relaxed pace through untouched forest.

I love the small group size, limited to just 4 participants, because it keeps the experience personal. I also like that you get at least 60 minutes riding your own horse, with a careful intro that works even if you’ve never ridden before.

One possible drawback is that it’s still an outdoor winter activity. If you show up underdressed, the cold can drain the fun fast, and you’ll also need to arrange your own transfer since pickup is not included.

Key Things You’ll Actually Notice

• At least 60 minutes on the trail with your own horse, not just a short photo loop
• Beginner-friendly training before you mount, so you can focus on the ride instead of panic
• Small group energy (max 4), which makes it easier for the guide to check in on everyone
• Helmet included for the ride, plus practical rules about shoes and hats
• Warm drinks and refreshments indoors after you come back from the forest
• Your guide points out nature details, including tracks you might not spot on your own

Polaris Point Horses: calm Finnish horses and a real pre-ride briefing

At Polaris Point Horses, check in and get your helmet for the duration of the ride. Then you meet the horses and the guide, who walks you through what to expect and how to handle a steady, well-trained mount in snowy conditions.

This is the kind of setup that matters. In Arctic winter riding, confidence beats bravado. The horses are described as gentle and composed, and the guide’s focus is on helping you feel comfortable in the saddle and understanding simple horse routines like staying in step and reading what your horse is doing.

The guide also brings the place to life with explanations as you ride. From forest and animal details to horse behavior, you’re not just passing through scenery, you’re learning how the winter world works while the trail keeps moving at an easy rhythm.

The 2 hour flow: helmet on, forest time, warm drinks later

The tour runs about 2 hours total, and it’s structured so you get real riding time rather than constant stopping.

First you arrive, check in, and receive your helmet. Next comes an introduction to riding, where you learn how to sit, hold on safely, and follow the instructions for controlling your horse at a calm walk pace.

Then you mount and head out onto small forest trails. The group rides together in a line, and a professional guide stays with you throughout. The pace is intentionally slow and relaxed, with no traffic feel and no rushed back-and-forth.

After the ride, you return to the farm for hot drinks and refreshments indoors. That indoor warm-down is more than a nice touch. In cold weather, it’s what turns the experience from endurance into comfort, so you can actually enjoy the wintry quiet without spending the whole time shivering.

What the snowy forest trail really feels like

The core of the experience is time in pristine wilderness on horseback. You take smaller trails into the woods and breathe in that crisp Lapland air, with the ride described as tranquil and quiet.

Because the horses move carefully through snow, your attention shifts naturally away from phone screens and onto the moment. You’ll likely notice how your horse handles the ground and how the snowy trail changes from patch to patch.

A big highlight is that you ride your own horse. That means you’re not just sitting as a passenger while someone else leads your mount. You’re learning and following cues at a human scale, which makes the experience feel more personal.

Also, don’t be surprised if your guide helps you spot signs of animals. One of the most memorable parts of snowy trails is noticing tracks and interpreting what you’re seeing, and the guide can point out details that you might miss in the white-on-white world.

The value question: why $170 can make sense here

At about $170 per person for a 2 hour experience, this isn’t the cheapest winter activity in Saariselkä. But the value is in the full package, not just the minutes in the saddle.

You’re paying for:

• A helmet included for safety
• A real riding introduction, which is crucial for first-timers
• At least 60 minutes riding in the forest on your own horse
• Professional guiding for the full ride
• Hot drinks and refreshments afterward

That 60 minute trail time is the big deal. Many short rides stretch “experience” into brief loops. Here, the ride portion is long enough that you actually settle in, enjoy the quiet, and stop thinking about logistics mid-ride.

It’s also a quality-of-experience price. Small group size helps the guide manage everyone calmly, and calm horses reduce the stress level, which makes the whole thing feel safer and easier.

If you’re choosing between a quick winter activity and something slower and more personal, this one tends to win, because it’s built for comfort and actual time outdoors.

Weather and clothing: how to stay warm without ruining your photos

This tour is outdoors, so your clothing choices make or break your comfort. Outdoor clothing is required, and you’ll want layers that you can adjust.

Two practical rules are worth planning around:

• No moonboots or other very large shoes
• Avoid very big hats, since they must fit under the helmet

For foot comfort, the recommendation is regular winter walking shoes, plus a small cap or scarf to cover your head. That matters because warmth depends on the head and circulation, and helmet fit affects safety.

A simple strategy I like for Lapland tours is to treat it like winter hiking, not just a sightseeing stop. Warm base layers, insulated mid-layer, wind protection, and gloves you can actually move in. If you can comfortably walk for an hour outside, you’re in the right zone for this ride.

If you tend to run cold, consider packing an extra layer for the ride. You’ll come back for hot drinks, but the cold moments are where preparation matters most.

Who should book, and who should skip this one

This tour fits best if you want a quiet Arctic nature experience and you’re open to a slow-paced ride.

It’s described as relaxing and doesn’t require previous riding experience. The horses are steady, and the guide provides an introduction and ongoing direction, including attention to newer riders.

That said, it’s not for everyone. It’s not suitable for:

• Children under 12
• Pregnant women
• People over 254 lbs (115 kg)

If any of those apply, you should choose a different winter activity that matches your needs better.

If you enjoy animal care vibes, calm interaction, and learning a bit about the forest while you ride, this is a strong match.

Getting there from Saariselkä and Ivalo without stress

Transfers aren’t included, so you need to handle your own way to Polaris Point Horses. If you’re driving, it’s about 25 minutes from Saariselkä and about 40 minutes from Ivalo.

Many people use taxis in winter because roads and timing can be tricky. One practical tip: arrange a taxi in advance and get a firm return time. Cold weather adds pressure to last-minute plans, and you don’t want to be standing around waiting with numb hands.

Before you go, double-check your start time and build in extra buffer for winter conditions.

Quick safety and rules to keep the ride smooth

A few rules are clearly stated:

• Alcohol and drugs are not allowed
• You’ll wear the provided helmet during the ride
• Follow the guide’s instructions for how to handle your horse

The safest rides are the ones where everyone stays calm and follows directions. With a small group and steady horses, the experience is designed to feel comfortable, but you still need to respect the basics.

And if you’re concerned about riding, don’t wait until you’re in the saddle to ask questions. The intro before mounting is your chance to get clarity.

Should You Book This Arctic Trail Horse Riding Tour?

If you want Lapland without rushing, and you’d rather spend time quietly in snowy forest than chase a crowded checklist, I think this is an excellent pick. The blend of a beginner-friendly setup, a real 60 minute ride, and warm drinks afterward makes it feel like a complete experience, not a quick add-on.

Book it if:

• You’re traveling as a couple or small group and like personalized guidance
• You want calm horses and a relaxed pace
• You’re comfortable with winter outdoors and dressing for cold weather

Skip it if:

• You don’t want to manage your own transportation to and from the farm
• You fall into the stated non-suitable categories (age, pregnancy, weight limit)
• You’re looking for adrenaline riding rather than steady, serene forest time

In short, this is one of those winter activities that feels worth the money because you get time, comfort, and thoughtful guiding, all wrapped into a peaceful ride through Lapland.

FAQ

How long is the Saariselkä Arctic Trail Horse Riding Tour?

The tour lasts about 2 hours total.

How much time do I spend riding?

You’ll have at least 60 minutes riding in the forest on your own horse.

Is transportation included from Saariselkä or Ivalo?

No, transfer to and back is not included. The location is about 25 minutes from Saariselkä and about 40 minutes from Ivalo by car.

What should I bring to the tour?

Bring outdoor clothing suitable for the weather.

Is a helmet provided?

Yes. A helmet is included for the duration of the ride.

What languages are the guides speaking?

The live tour guide speaks English and Finnish.

Is this tour suitable for children and everyone physically able to ride?

It is not suitable for children under 12 years, pregnant women, or people over 254 lbs (115 kg).

Are there rules about food or drink and cancellation?

Alcohol and drugs are not allowed. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and there is also an option to reserve and pay later.