Is previous dog sledding experience required?

No, all necessary instruction is provided on-site, making this activity suitable even for beginners.

Are children allowed on the dog sledding tours?

Yes, children aged 8 and above can participate but must be accompanied by an adult.

What happens if the weather conditions are unsafe?

The company may alter or cancel the route for safety; clients are notified in advance when possible.

Can I ride the sled instead of driving?

Yes, a VIP option lets you relax while a professional guide drives your sled.

Is winter gear available for rent?

Yes, warm clothing and boots can be rented on-site for an additional fee.

How are the dogs cared for when not on tours?

Dogs receive daily care including veterinary checkups, a controlled breeding program, and retirement adoptions, ensuring their well-being year-round.

Dog Sledding Adventure at Chalets Villégiature & Pourvoirie Daaquam | Guided Tour

The snow-dusted Appalachian wilderness in Quebec’s Chaudière-Appalaches region offers a rare chance to journey back to the roots of winter transportation with Chalets Villégiature & Pourvoirie Daaquam’s six-hour dog sledding expedition, Randonnée La piste des Trappeurs. Located near Saint-Just-de-Bretenières, this immersive adventure on frozen lakes and dense boreal forests invites you to harness the power and spirit of a team of affectionate Huskies on trails once honored by world champion mushers. The experience begins at the kennel, where guests meet their canine teammates—well-cared-for Huskies trained for this very terrain. After a concise but comprehensive musher’s briefing, participants learn to command the sled, engage the dogs, and guide the team through approximately 35 kilometers of snowy trails. This route courses through Parc des Appalaches, featuring mixed boreal woods interspersed with peat bogs and iced-over rivers, a landscape notable for its tranquility and subtle wildlife sightings. A unique aspect of this outing is its dedication to animal welfare and sustainable tourism, setting it apart in the region. The kennels raise only a limited number of puppies annually, prioritizing the health and socialization of their dogs, and retiring mushers’ companions find new homes through the company’s thoughtful adoption program. Midway through the journey, the group pauses for a rustic forest meal beside a crackling fire—a welcome warmth amid the winter chill. The day ends with quiet moments back at the lodge, hot chocolate in hand, reflecting on the partnership between human and dog in this demanding yet deeply rewarding winter sport. This guided dog sledding tour is a must for active travelers seeking both adrenaline and connection to Quebec’s winter traditions. Whether you take the reins yourself or opt for a guided VIP ride, the combination of expert instruction, pristine wilderness, and heartfelt hospitality from Chalets Villégiature & Pourvoirie Daaquam crafts an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Difficulty

moderate.

Duration

6 hours.

Fitness level

Participants should have average fitness, able to stand for extended periods and assist with sled handling.

Wildlife

Snowshoe hare
Red fox

History

The dog sledding trails were part of the 2009 IFSS World Championship routes, linking the area to global mushing heritage.

Conservation

Chalets Villégiature & Pourvoirie Daaquam is certified by Aventure Écotourisme Québec, promoting responsible tourism that balances recreation with wildlife and habitat protection.

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.

Base locationSaint-Just-de-Bretenières, Québec

Tours offered45+

Specialtywinter-sports

StewardshipLeave No Trace