Bearhill Husky – The Best Husky Dog Experience
Experiencing Bearhill Husky in Rovaniemi was the best husky dog experience! If there’s one experience I recommend to anyone visiting Finnish Lapland, it’s a husky adventure. In October (autumn) 2024, I had the pleasure of being a guest at Bearhill Husky in Rovaniemi and it left me with a newfound respect and admiration for husky dog sledding. The sight of Alaskan huskies, vibrant with excitement and energy, eagerly awaiting the chance to pull our cart was nothing short of thrilling. But there’s so much more to Bearhill Husky than just the experience – it’s a business that truly values its dogs’ well-being and goes above and beyond to ensure their health, safety and happiness.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosure for further information.
Page Contents
A History Rooted in Tradition
Husky dog sledding has deep roots in this region, shaped by the unique climate and terrain of the Arctic. Historically, sled dogs were essential for transportation and survival in remote northern communities, from carrying supplies to connecting villages. Over time, this practice transformed into a recreational and tourism experience, drawing visitors from around the world to experience the unique bond between human and husky in a raw, exhilarating setting. Finnish Lapland, with its snow-covered trails, forests and arctic silence, is among one of the most authentic (and popular) places to witness the legacy of husky dog sledding, making it a highly sought after experience for any visitor to this part of the world.
The Bearhill Husky Experience
During my visit, I was immediately struck by Bearhill Husky’s commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. They’re known across Lapland for the exceptional care they provide to their huskies. Their “team” isn’t just a term – it’s an ethos. These Alaskan huskies, each with their own personality, receive a level of care that reflects Bearhill’s deep respect for these incredible animals.
Bearhill prioritises the physical and mental health of their huskies, implementing well-considered measures to ensure they’re well-prepared for the season. It was inspiring to hear about their approach to training, which prioritises each dog’s comfort, health and happiness. They’ve invested in high-quality working conditions, providing thorough training for their staff and establishing a strong support system. This dedication is particularly evident in the way they run their operation during peak season. To protect the dogs from burnout, they bring in additional workers, dogs and even dog owners from outside the business to help meet demand without compromising the well-being of their dogs.
A Shift Toward Professional Handling
One of the things that really resonated with me was Bearhill’s approach to the dog sledding experience itself. While many visitors seek the thrill of driving their own team, Bearhill advocates for a shift towards professional handling. By allowing experienced drivers to lead the sleds, the dogs benefit from safer, smoother runs, which significantly enhances their health and longevity. It’s a gentle reminder that as visitors, our goal should be to respect the natural rhythm and needs of the animals that make these experiences possible.
Prioritising Health and Rehoming
For Bearhill, no expense is too great when it comes to their dogs’ health. Veterinary care is a high priority, and they maintain an open-ended budget to address any health concerns, ensuring their huskies remain in peak condition throughout their careers. When it comes time for a husky to retire, Bearhill doesn’t simply keep them on site; they seek loving homes where these wonderful animals can enjoy a new chapter of care and companionship. This thoughtfulness speaks volumes about the level of compassion and dedication Bearhill has for each of their dogs.
Year-Round Husky Experiences in Finnish Lapland
Bearhill Husky offers an incredible array of husky experiences all year, from traditional winter sledding to summer/autumn training runs. I was lucky enough to go on one of these autumn training runs and it was an incredible glimpse into the behind-the-scenes preparation that ensures every season is a success. Watching the dogs in action was exhilarating and spending time with the adorable husky puppies at their kennels was a definite highlight – those bright eyes and boundless energy could melt anyone’s heart.
To top it off, Bearhill has recently expanded its offerings with onsite accommodation, allowing visitors to immerse themselves even further in the Lapland experience. The addition of this accommodation adds a whole new dimension, letting guests spend more time in the company of these wonderful animals, surrounded by the quiet beauty of Lapland.
Why Bearhill Husky Stands Out
For anyone planning a trip to Rovaniemi, Levi, or Kittilä, a visit to Bearhill Husky is an experience that goes beyond adventure. It’s an opportunity to witness a business that is pioneering ethical, animal-centred tourism in Finnish Lapland. Their commitment to the health and happiness of their huskies sets them apart and it’s an experience that has left a lasting impression on me.
Erin Parker is a Finnish Lapland specialist, women’s adventure host and founder of Lapland Lowdown & Travel Her Way. She has travelled six continents and brings first-hand experience to every destination she writes about – from the Arctic wilderness of Finnish Lapland to the high Andes of Peru. Based in Melbourne, Australia, Erin helps long-haul travellers plan extraordinary Finnish Lapland adventures and leads small group trips for women who are ready to explore the world boldly.
