Luosto - Day 2 - sledging with huskies

Today was a bit warmer at -8 so it didn't feel quite as chilly but it was still cold! 

Our main activity today was going to a husky farm to take part in a 10k 'husky safari'.  When we arrived at the farm we could hear the dogs howling and barking as they were so keen to go - Huskies are born and bred to run and pull and they live for the moment the brake is released and they speed off along the snowy trail.  There were 6 huskies to a sledge which pulls two people - one sitting in the sledge enjoying the view (me!) and the other standing on the back and in control of the steering and braking (Peter!).  We had a quick safety briefing and off we went - they start off at high speed so it was recommend that you have one foot on the break to begin with but they soon get in to a steady pace.  Peter and I absolutely loved it as you are hurtling through the woods with the dogs barking away - it was very exhilarating. You will be pleased to know we had no near death experiences during the trip and Peter was a natural at driving the sledge.  The only downside was that, from where I was sitting, I had a very good view of the dogs pooing as they ran along and it stank!  I was also a bit concerned it may get flicked up by the dogs as they ran and in to the sledge but I am glad to say it didn't happen!  

Huskies ready to go

The huskies are a lot calmer at the end of their run

They then took us in to the farm to meet all of the dogs and to learn about their lives as working animals.  Some of the dogs were in cages, but others were allowed out and they ran around chasing each other and play fighting.  It was lovely to be able to stroke and pet the dogs, and I especially loved holding the 2 week old puppy.

I want one!

Lovely huskies at the farm

Our group then went in to one of the small huts for coffee and we were treated to a roasted sausage straight from the fire which was actually very nice.  We chatted with members of our group and everyone had really enjoyed the experience (seeing the dogs that is, not munching on a sausage).

Peter enjoying his sausage which had been roasted on the fire behind him!

In the afternoon we visited the Aurora Kota to learn more about the Northern lights - a local guide showed us a video and slide presentation which was very interesting so now we know what we are looking out for!

The Aurora Kota

The view from the Aurora Kota (its a frozen lake behind me!)

This evening, as part of our package, we went for dinner in the largest log cabin in the world (apparently!) - it was one of our best meals so far and we came out very full.  We are going on the hunt for the northern lights again tonight but are going to go out later (about 10pm) as we found out the later the better (although they can happen at any time!).