Adventure Brief
Discover the serene lakeside retreat at Von Doeler's Ranch in Little Chico, where canoeing and cozy cabins make for unforgettable outdoor escapes. Read on to find out what makes this destination special.
1–4 hours
easy
From CA$218.91
Discover the serene lakeside retreat at Von Doeler's Ranch in Little Chico, where canoeing and cozy cabins make for unforgettable outdoor escapes. Read on to find out what makes this destination special.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended for paddling and short hikes
Wildlife
History
Little Chico has been a popular spot for local fishermen and nature lovers for decades, with preserved natural landscapes that attract diverse wildlife.
Conservation
Efforts prioritize sustainable water use and habitat preservation, ensuring future generations can enjoy this pristine environment.
Von Doeler's Ranch
Discover the serene lakeside retreat at Von Doeler's Ranch in Little Chico, where canoeing and cozy cabins make for unforgettable outdoor escapes. Read on to find out what makes this destination special.
Von Doeler's Ranch is a ranch and outdoor adventure provider located in Rutherglen, Ontario. The ranch offers a wide range of guided horseback rides, overnight camping with horses, cabin stays, riding lessons, and ranch activity packages designed for families, groups, and individual riders. Popular outings include trail rides to Talon Chutes Waterfall along the Rough N' Tough Trail, Half Day Ride & Paddle experiences that combine riding, picnic stops and canoeing on Little Lake, and multi-day camps such as the August Five Day Camp.
Accommodations on site include cabins like Little Chico, Rocky Point Cabin, and Little Bear, each providing lake views or close access to trails. The ranch also runs structured programs for children — Lil' Dude Experience, Lil' Dude Ride, and birthday packages with animal interactions and organized activities — and offers private and group riding lessons available in hourly formats or packaged sessions.
Von Doeler's Ranch presents both full- and half-day options (for example Half Day Ranch Experience and Half Day Rough N' Tough) as well as specialty rides (Talon Chutes Ride, Big Rock Ride) and private camp offerings. Camping with horses options at Little Lake are offered at novice and advanced levels.
The ranch emphasizes guided experiences tailored to participant skill levels and offers hands-on ranch activities such as cattle sorting and roping in select packages. Booking information, schedules, and current availability are provided directly by the ranch; prospective guests should contact Von Doeler's Ranch for reservations and specific safety requirements. Bookings vary seasonally, call ahead today.
Location
Rutherglen, ON
Set in rural Ontario
Experiences
28
Trail rides, lessons, camps
Key Trails
Talon Chutes
Access to Rough N' Tough Trail
Group Options
Private & Group
Lessons, parties, camps
Reserve a trail ride, lesson, or cabin stay at Von Doeler's Ranch today — guided experiences and multiple package options are available for families, groups, and riders.
Water safety first
Always wear a life jacket when canoeing, especially if you're unfamiliar with the water.
Prepare for outdoor evenings
Bring fire-starting supplies and warm clothing for cozy nights by the fire pit.
Respect wildlife
Keep a safe distance from animals and do not disturb nesting sites.
Stay on designated trails
Use marked hiking paths to protect the environment and ensure safety.
Comfortable waterproof shoes
Ideal for wet conditions around the water and on trails.
Layered clothing
Adjust for changing weather and outdoor comfort.
Sun protection
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for daytime activities.
Personal water bottle
Stay hydrated during water activities and hikes.