Following the heartbreaking loss of my border collie, Finn, I decided to embark on a unique adventure—dog sledding in Sweden’s stunning Vindelfjällen Nature Reserve. While the idea of a sled dog adventure might seem unusual to some, it had long been on my bucket list, and it was the perfect opportunity to reconnect with dogs again.
I joined the team at Cold Nose Huskies, located in the small Swedish town of Gargnäs. Lars Hoffmann, his partner Malin Strid (a former Swedish long-distance dog sled champion), and their assistant guides led us on a four-day journey into one of Europe’s largest protected wildernesses.
Each morning began with the sound of 30 Alaskan huskies howling after their breakfast, eagerly anticipating the day’s run. After some brief training on how to handle the sled and care for the dogs, we set off from the hamlet of Danasjön into the vast, snow-covered beauty of Vindelfjällen Nature Reserve.
This area, bordering Norway, stretches across 2,172 square miles of rugged terrain—home to Arctic wildlife like moose, brown bears, and wolverines, with few human inhabitants. It was both humbling and breathtaking to experience.
The dogs were at the heart of the experience. They were cared for before us each day—fed, watered, and checked for cuts or injuries. A well-cared-for team is essential for a successful trip, as no one gets far without the dogs’ full cooperation. My team consisted of six energetic huskies, each with its own personality, including Chipper and Lava at the front, Maverick and Viper in the middle, and Lakota and Wenonah at the rear.
Driving the sled was a steep learning curve. The huskies were fast and eager, and controlling the speed with the brake was crucial to avoid turning over the sled. There were a few spills along the way, but as the dogs burned off their initial energy, it became easier to enjoy the ride.
Our expedition took us across frozen lakes, through coniferous forests, and up mountains like the Ruvsátjåhkka, following ancient Sami reindeer trails. Despite the tough terrain, the huskies never faltered, running up to 37 miles a day. Their friendly nature made it easy to bond with them, and I found myself deeply appreciating their companionship.
The weather varied, from bursts of sunshine to snowstorms, but the experience was deeply satisfying. By day’s end, the dogs were fed and settled, and there was still work to be done—lighting stoves, chopping firewood, and collecting drinking water before we could rest for the night.
On the final day, a snowstorm set in, making visibility difficult. Yet, I trusted my lead dogs, Lava and Chipper, to find the way, and the experience came together as I watched the dogs move effortlessly through the wilderness. The silence, interrupted only by the sound of the sled runners on snow, made the journey even more magical.
Though I left Sweden with a heavy heart, I knew I’d soon be welcoming another dog into my life. The bond I shared with my sled dogs and the connection I experienced through this incredible adventure left me with memories that will last a lifetime.
Related topics:
Council Secures Funding for McIvor Reserve Dog Park Revamp
Avoid Shared Public Water Bowls for Dogs, Vet Warns
Far North Police Welcome New Four-Legged Members to the Force
