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As part of our Ski Travel Guide, we’re taking a look at activities off the beaten track. Ski Joering definitely falls into that category! Ski joering (sometimes written ‘skijoring’), or horse-drawn skiing, is a unique activity that comes to us from Scandinavia. It provides skiers with a rush of adrenaline as they glide through snowy landscapes, pulled by a horse. If you’re looking for a new and different past time for your ski holiday, this might be the perfect one.
History and Practice: From Travel to Recreation
Horse skiing is an ancient Scandinavian mode of travel. The term ski joering comes from the Norwegian word ‘Skikjøring,’ which means ‘ski driving.’ Villagers put on their skis and were pulled along by reindeer. Reindeer were eventually replaced by horses, which were stronger and nimbler. It’s worth noting that a similar mode of travel was used certain regions of Poland, Austria, and Russia.
In France, horse skiing served a simpler purpose. It was used to get Alpine skiers to the top of the slopes before the invention of the ski lift! Now, it's enjoyed by holidaymakers at ski resorts.
Horse Skiing Today: Recreation and Competition
Today, ski joering is no longer used for travel. It has become a primarily recreational activity accessible to skiers of all ages. Numerous ski resorts around the world offer horse skiing sessions, due to its growing popularity.
However, professional racing does exist. Skijor International, founded in 2012, hosts several races a year, including a World Championship. Ski joering enthusiasts would love to see it to become part of the Winter Olympics by 2030.
But there's no need to be an expert to get started. Let’s find out what ski joering has to offer amateur skiers and families today.
Why Go Ski Joering?
It’s the ideal combination of skiing and equestrianism—a great way to enjoy the snow and bond with animals. But keep in mind that the horse won’t do all the work! Horse skiing is not the most physically demanding type of skiing, but you will have to lead the horse in the right direction and keep your balance.
There’s no need to master horse riding to take up the sport. A First Star Level in Alpine skiing is largely sufficient. (Check out our Guide to the ESF Ski School for further information.) More advanced skiers can attempt a slalom course. Small children can try the sport pulled by a pony.
Ski Joering gives you a feeling of freedom and speed, as you glide smoothly across snow-covered terrain. The thrill of being pulled by a horse is entirely different from traditional skiing, where you control the movements yourself. Give it a try for a completely new experience.
Non-skiers who’d like a similar experience can ride in a horse-drawn sleigh.
Ski Joering with Dogs
If you’re so inspired, you could even practice ski joering with your dog! Dog ski joering is a possibility on any piste that allows dogs. Make sure to check the rules beforehand: some pistes only allow dogs during certain hours of the day (and they may be required to be leashed).
To go ski joering, dogs should meet the following conditions:
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Be medium or large-sized (and fully grown)
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Be relatively obedient and responsive to commands
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Enjoy running and have a good level of fitness
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Have enough fur to keep them warm in extreme cold
Think of it as your dog taking you for a walk in the snow! For a complete guide, check out Skijoring with Dogs.
What Ski Wear Do I Need for Ski Joering?
Wear what you normally would on the mountain: a waterproof ski suit with warm clothing underneath, such as a fleece jacket and thermal pants. Ski socks and gloves are vital to protect from frostbite. Your hands and fingers need to stay warm—you’ll be holding the reins for several metres at a time! Some horse skiers like to wear a helmet (and we’d highly recommend it), otherwise just a wool hat will do. If it’s nice out, sunglasses or ski goggles will protect you from UV rays.
Equipment specific to ski joering will be provided by the organizer upon arrival.
Ski Wear Checklist
- A base layer (thermal shirt and leggings)
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A waterproof ski suit
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A fleece jacket
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Ski gloves
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Ski socks
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Sunglasses or ski goggles
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A helmet and/or a wool hat
For a complete list of what to pack skiing, see our Ski Packing List.
Horse Skiing Sessions
Sessions are available to participants of all ages, provided they can keep their balance on skis. (Horses trot for beginners and gallop for more advanced skiers.) An experienced teacher can accompany beginners and help them guide the horse if necessary.
Do your research on your ski joering session provider. Choose a provider who puts your safety first and treats their animals with respect.
A Quick Overview
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The average horse joering session is about an hour. (30-minute sessions are also available.)
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An hour session costs about 60 euros.
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Preparation for a session can last 15 to 30 minutes. (Demonstration, guidelines, etc.)
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Prices tend to increase for more experienced horse skiers.
Where Can I Go Ski Joering?
The French Alps is a hub for ski joering. It's the perfect mountain terrain for a ride in the snow! If you’re interested or would like to book a session, we recommend that you contact the following ski resorts for further information:
Ski Joering Avoriaz
Take a ride through the beautiful scenery at the iconic Porte du Soleil. Children as young as seven can try their hand at ski joering with a full-sized horse! 30, 60, or 75-minute sessions are available.
Address: 44 Promenade du Festival, 74110, Avoriaz, France
Phone Number: 04.50.74.02.11
Ski Joering Les Menuires
Horse skiing for even the littlest kids, who can do pony sledding! A fun ride for the whole family through the 3 Valleys!
Address: 1269 Avenue de la Croisette, 73440, Les Menuires, France
Phone Number: 04.79.00.73.00
Ski Joering La Clusaz
The equestrian centre at La Clusaz is accessible by car, bus, and ski slope! It's open from December to March, so why not book a 90-minute Discovery session?
Address: 161 Place de l’Eglise, 74220, La Clusaz, France
Phone Number: 04.50.32.65.00
