Is prior experience with dogs necessary?

No experience is required; guides provide all necessary instructions and support to ensure a safe, enjoyable hike.

Can children participate in the cani-randonnée?

Children aged 8 and above can join, though only those 13+ may be harnessed to a husky for safety reasons.

What happens if weather conditions are bad?

Trips may be adjusted or rescheduled to ensure safety and dog welfare, with clear communication beforehand.

Are the huskies always attached during the hike?

Huskies are harnessed at the start, but under optimal conditions they may be unleashed mid-hike for playtime.

What level of fitness do I need?

A moderate fitness level is recommended to keep up with the dogs across uneven trails.

Can I visit the kennel after the hike?

Yes, guests are invited to tour the kennel and spend time with the dogs after the activity.

Cani-Randonnée Adventure at Chalets Villégiature & Pourvoirie Daaquam | Guided Tour

Located in the heart of Québec’s rugged landscapes near Saint-Just-de-Bretenières, Chalets Villégiature & Pourvoirie Daaquam offers an immersive outdoor experience unique in its approach: the Cani-Randonnée. This guided cani-hike lets participants connect deeply with a team of spirited huskies, combining the thrill of forest trekking with the dynamic energy of working dogs. Spanning roughly 2.5 kilometers through varied woodland terrain, this 90-minute journey blends physical activity with genuine moments of joy for dog lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

The route dives into dense forest sections along the Daaquam River, where the crisp water provides a refreshing stop for the dogs to cool off. The landscape is marked by mature hardwoods and spruces, with occasional glimpses of native wildlife like white-tailed deer and red squirrels. The forest floor is often soft underfoot, with patches of moss and wild ferns adding rich texture to the trail.

What sets this adventure apart is the deeply interactive aspect of the hike: guests are connected to huskies via specialized cani-randonnée harnesses, allowing an authentic partnership where runners feel the power and spirit of their canine companions. Midway, weather and safety permitting, the dogs are given freedom to run unleashed, creating a rare and heartfelt human-animal experience. The trip concludes with a visit to the kennel, where visitors meet the dogs off-leash and gain insight into their lives and care—a perfect closure that underscores respect and affection for these athletes.

Chalets Villégiature & Pourvoirie Daaquam enhances this active outing with lodging options onsite, from rustic chalets to cozy suites and camping spots, making it a standout destination for those looking to immerse themselves fully in Québec’s wilderness. The combination of caring animal stewardship, engaging physical challenge, and pristine natural surroundings makes this cani-hike an exceptional addition to the region’s outdoor offerings.

About Chalets Villégiature & Pourvoirie Daaquam

Chalets Villégiature & Pourvoirie Daaquam is a multi-activity chalets and outfitting operation located in Saint-Just-de-Bretenières, Québec. It offers year‑round outdoor experiences centered on the Appalachian wilderness and the Daaquam River. The property provides guided activities such as dog sledding, ATV and quad excursions, snowmobile tours, horseback rides, and fishing outings. Ice fishing is available on a pond located just 300 feet from the inn, with guided instruction and gear provided. Winter rentals include snowshoes, cross-country skis for a 5 km trail through boreal forest, fat bikes, and ice skates. Motorized rentals and guided expeditions include side-by-side quad rentals (3- and 6-place), snowmobile rentals (one hour, three hours, eight hours) and multi-day guided snowmobile raids. Dog-powered options feature guided sled trips ranging from initiation rides to 15–20 km guided treks and longer excursions, plus Cani‑Kart and Cani‑Randonnée with professional guides and access to a kennel visit. On‑site services list meals (dîner, déjeuner, souper) and short-stay options such as the 24-hour Refuge Boréal excursion. Hunting for small game is offered for Québec residents. Chalets Villégiature & Pourvoirie Daaquam combines equipment rentals, guided trips, seasonal expeditions, and lodging to provide access to remote trails, frozen lakes, and rivers. Its program includes family-friendly outings and multi-day adventures, emphasizing guided exploration of the Parc régional des Appalaches and surrounding Appalachian mountains. Guided quad tours use a CAN‑AM Defender on marked trails, with photo stops at the Daaquam River. Mont Bonnet and border-view routes offer extended guided days with meals included on select excursions. Guides share local history.