Finland’s aurora borealis, husky mushing and wintry wilderness bring a dream to life

Finland’s Aurora Borealis, Husky Mushing, and Wintry Wilderness

Snow, sledding, and breathtaking experiences form the heart of my dream holiday in Lapland. Now I can truly say I am fulfilled.

Adventure on the Frozen Lake

“Make sure you follow my tracks,” warns our snowmobiling guide, Martti Kiviniemi. “Otherwise, there’s a risk.”

“A risk of what?” I ask, apprehensive.

“It’s possible to take a bath in minus-20-degree water.”

A rush of panic hits me as we stand on a vast frozen lake deep in northern Lapland, ready to ice fish on snowmobiles. I’ve feared falling through ice ever since seeing a film where a boy got trapped under frozen water.

Living the Dream

Despite my fear, I remind myself this is my choice, a dream years in the making—to witness the [translate:北极光], experience husky mushing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, and ride snowmobiles through unspoiled snowy wilderness.

I've paid generously for three days filled with outdoor adventures by day and aurora chasing by night.

The Ride Across Menesjärvi

After a safety briefing and putting on helmets, we set off across Menesjärvi—a lake (“järvi” in Finnish). Though maintaining a steady speed is nearly impossible and the “flat” lake is actually quite uneven, the ride is thrilling and lively.

I feel alive and thrilled, though a bit bumpy, especially for my passenger, 22-year-old August, who is enduring a rougher journey.

“Make sure you follow my tracks,” warns our snowmobiling guide, Martti Kiviniemi. “Otherwise, there’s a risk.” “It’s possible to take a bath in minus-20-degree water.”

Author’s summary: A journey through Lapland’s snowy wilderness blends thrilling snowmobiling, husky sledding, and the magical hunt for the Northern Lights into a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

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The Irish Times — 2025-11-04