Sonka in 1 Day for Families - Small-group husky sled tour (max 6 sledges)
In Collaboration with Pinewood`s huskies. Updated on February 13, 2026.
Small-group husky safari through snowy forests and scenic swamp areas. Program duration ~2h30. Includes winter overalls (adult sizes), driving & safety instruction, ~1h guided sled ride, time to meet and pet the dogs, and hot beverages with pastries in a yurt. Meeting point: Pinewood's Huskies kennel, Mäntyjärventie 723, Sonka. Start times: 09:30 or 14:30. Driving age 18+; under-18s ride as guests
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Pinewood`s huskies, inspired by the tour Pineforest Pawprint (10km tour). Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Small-group husky sled tour (max 6 sledges)
- Approximately 1 hour sled ride through forest and swamp landscapes
- Hands-on time with Alaskan huskies and guided husky info talk
- Hot beverages and pastries in a cozy yurt
- Winter overalls and adult-size boots/hats/gloves provided
Itinerary
Day 1
Full program starting at the kennel. Total program time ~2 hours 30 minutes. If joining the 09:30 departure, the schedule below runs 09:30–12:00; if you booked the 14:30 departure, shift all times by +5 hours.
Meet at Pinewood's Huskies kennel — check-in & get dressed
Arrival and check-in at the kennel. Staff fit winter overalls and boots (adult sizes) and record driver names. Short practical reminders before training.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive at least 5 minutes before the scheduled start (staff ask you to be ready to be dressed promptly).
- Bring government ID if anyone in your party intends to drive (drivers must be 18+).
- Dress in thin layers under provided overalls—cotton stays cold; wool/synthetic base layers work best.
Driving & safety instruction, sled assignment
Guides teach basic sled handling, braking and commands. Sled teams are assigned and grouped (families share sledges where appropriate).
Tips from local experts:
- Listen carefully to the braking and turning demonstration—practical drills may be repeated for confidence.
- Children under 18 are passengers only; plan seating so heavier adults drive if sharing a sled.
- Ask guides if a second adult should sit in front or behind children for safety and warmth.
Guided sled ride through forest and swamp (approx. 1 hour)
Approximately 1-hour sled journey on prepared trails. Guides manage group pacing; midway there is an option to swap drivers and staff will photograph participants.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep cameras or phones in an inside pocket to protect batteries from the cold; bring a small waterproof bag for devices.
- If you plan to switch drivers midway, tell the guide in advance so the swap is done safely on a planned stop.
- Follow the guide's distance instructions between sledges—do not close gaps or attempt overtaking.
Thank the dogs — meet & pet time
After the ride, you spend time with the huskies. Guides introduce individual dogs and allow supervised petting and photo opportunities.
Tips from local experts:
- Approach dogs calmly and wait for the staff's cue before petting; some dogs need a moment to settle after running.
- Do not feed the dogs unless a guide explicitly says it's allowed—dietary routines are important for their health.
- Have children stay seated or kneel low beside an adult when meeting dogs to avoid sudden movements that could startle them.
Warm up in the yurt — hot beverage, pastries & husky info
Time in the cozy yurt for hot chocolate or hot berry juice and pastries while guides talk about the dogs, training and local life.
Tips from local experts:
- Inform the operator of any dietary requirements in advance by email so they can accommodate pastries or alternatives.
- Use the yurt's seating and thick blankets to warm small children first if they are chilled after the ride.
- Keep wet gloves and outer layers on a waterproof mat to avoid bringing snow into the yurt seating area.
Pack up & departure
Return borrowed winter gear, check personal items and say farewell to staff. Program concludes.
Tips from local experts:
- Check pockets and under sled blankets for small items (phones, gloves, camera batteries) before leaving.
- If you're driving away, ask staff for a brief update on local road conditions and recommended routes.
- Return rented overalls and boots clean and allow staff to stow returned items out of the snow.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | 1 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 5 |
| Total Places | 6 |
| Activities Types | Meal, Experience, Outdoor, Break, Transfer |