In Quebec, dog sledding is much more than an activity: it’s a Nordic tradition, a communion with nature, and a bond with animals. Sliding silently through snowy forests, to the rhythm of an enthusiastic pack, is like rediscovering winter in a new light.
Here are five exceptional places to go dog sledding in Quebec, from simple one-hour tours to longer expeditions, in typically Quebecois settings.
1. Auberge du Lac Taureau (Lanaudière)
The Auberge du Lac Taureau welcomes you to a dream setting in the heart of Lanaudière. Located on the shores of magnificent Lac Taureau, this four-season destination is ideal for a family trip to Quebec, thanks to its numerous winter activities and warm atmosphere. It offers an authentic dog sledding experience in a preserved environment.
Experienced guides will introduce you to driving techniques while sharing their passion for these energetic dogs. Participants will discover the region’s snowy trails, offering breathtaking views of the frozen lake and the surrounding boreal forest.
After your excursion, there’s nothing like a well-deserved hot chocolate by the inn’s fireplace!
Practical information:
- Address: 1200, chemin de la Baie-du-Milieu, Saint-Michel-des-Saints (Québec) Canada J0K 3B0
- Website: www.lactaureau.com/en
2. Le Baluchon Eco-Resort (Mauricie)
Le Baluchon Eco-Resort is a vast, eco-friendly estate located on the banks of the Loup River in Mauricie. This exceptional site offers environmentally friendly dog sledding in a preserved natural setting.
The team of professional mushers will introduce you to the joys of this traditional Quebec activity. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, you’ll appreciate the bond that quickly develops with the Nordic dogs and the harmony of this adventure in the great outdoors.
Practical information:
- Address: 3550, chemin des Trembles, Saint-Paulin, (Québec) Canada J0K 3G0
- Website: baluchon.com/en/
3. Les Aventures Liguoriennes (Lanaudière)
Les Aventures Liguoriennes offers a memorable dog sledding experience in Saint-Liguori. This family business emphasizes animal welfare and quality supervision.
The passionate guides will accompany you on this typically Quebec winter adventure. You’ll discover magical landscapes while learning the basics of dog sledding. A tour of the kennel is usually included to better understand the fascinating world of these working dogs.
Practical information:
- Address: 179 5e rang, St-Liguori (Québec) Canada J0K 2X0
- Website: aventuresliguoriennes.com/en/
4. Kinadapt (Lanaudière)
Kinadapt is located in Rawdon, in the beautiful Lanaudière region, 50 minutes from Montreal. Born from its founder’s passion for nature, sports, and Nordic dogs, this outdoor center’s mission is to make the dog sledding experience accessible to all. The specialized team adapts activities to each individual’s needs, allowing everyone to experience this unique adventure in a safe and welcoming environment.
On site, you can extend the adventure by staying in a cabin or campsite, and enjoy this exceptional site nestled in the heart of the forest year-round. The atmosphere is friendly, full of laughter, magical landscapes, and pure adrenaline for the more adventurous.
Practical information:
- Address: 1800, chemin Laurin, Rawdon (Québec) Canada J0K 1S0
- Website: www.kinadapt.com/en/
5. Galeox Univers (Mauricie)
GALEOX Univers offers the ultimate immersive dog sledding experience in the beautiful Mauricie region! Located in Trois-Rives, this authentic site embraces an eco-responsible and friendly approach, where respect for the environment, animals, and humans are values dear to the team.
Much more than a simple excursion, GALEOX Univers invites you to experience a completely immersive and educational getaway in the heart of nature. In addition to dog sledding, you can discover their micro-farm or explore the marked forest trails.
A perfect place to reconnect with nature and experience an authentic adventure in the Mauricie forest!
Practical information :
- Address: 1150, chemin des Bêtes Puantes, Trois-Rives (Québec) Canada G0X 2C0
- Website: www.galeoxunivers.com/
5 tips for enjoying a dog sled ride
- Dress warmly and in layers: Bring waterproof clothing, gloves, a hat, and sturdy boots. It’s generally colder during the ride than at the start, especially with the wind blowing during the race!
- Bring sunglasses or a mask: the sun on the snow burns your eyes.
- Listen carefully to your guide’s instructions: Your musher will explain how to hold the controls, brake, and steer the team. These tips are essential for your safety and that of the participants.
- Interact respectfully with the dogs: Before and after the ride, take advantage of the kennel tour to get to know your four-legged team. These working dogs love attention, but always approach them gently.
- Book in advance: Space is limited, especially during spring break in Quebec.
FAQ - Dog sledding in Quebec
How much does a dog sled ride cost in Quebec?
Rates generally range from $100 to $300 per person, depending on the length and type of experience chosen. Expect to pay around $150 for a 90-minute initiation, while a half-day with meals will cost around $250. Children often benefit from reduced rates, and some teams offer hot chocolate to warm up participants after the adventure. A friendly experience that will undoubtedly remain one of your fondest memories of Canada.
Where to go dog sledding in Quebec?
Several regions of Quebec offer this authentic experience, notably Lanaudière and Mauricie, two regions ideally located between Quebec City and Montreal.
When to go dog sledding in Canada?
If you’re wondering when to go to Quebec to enjoy dog sledding, the season runs from mid-December to the end of March, depending on snow conditions. The first outings generally begin when the snow is deep enough to protect the dogs’ paws, while the last rides can take place until the beginning of April, when winter is sticking around. Some companies also offer “canicart” in the summer! Instead of a sled gliding over the snow, it’s a cart. At Kinadapt, it’s also possible to go trail running harnessed to a dog in the summer as well.
What is the minimum age for dog sledding?
The minimum age varies depending on the type of excursion chosen. For our short introductory excursions, children as young as 3 can participate, while full-day outings accept participants from 8 years old. Driving the sleigh is reserved for 16-18 years old, depending on the provider, with younger children traveling comfortably as passengers with an experienced guide.
Do you need any previous experience to drive a sled?
Do experience is required for this activity! Mushers provide comprehensive training before departure, including driving techniques, voice commands for directing the dogs, and safety instructions. You’ll quickly learn how to manage your team on snowy trails, and participants often leave with their musher diploma as a souvenir of this authentic Quebec adventure.
What clothing should I wear for this activity?
Dress in layers to adapt to temperature fluctuations during your outing. Wear warm, waterproof clothing, non-slip winter boots, and waterproof gloves when handling equipment. Don’t forget a hat that covers your ears and sunglasses to protect against snow glare.
So, are you ready to become a musher for the day? These dog sledding experiences are some of the most memorable memories you’ll take home from your trip to Canada!
