15 min. Tadoussac : Dog Sled Excursion in Saguenay Fjord

Discover the thrill of dog sledding in Quebec’s Saguenay Fjord with a compact yet memorable 15-minute excursion offered by Ferme 5 étoiles. Priced with flexible booking options, this tour provides a genuine taste of Quebec’s winter landscape in just 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Located 15 minutes from Tadoussac at 465 Route 172 Nord, Sacré-Coeur, this experience is perfect for those looking for a quick, authentic outdoor adventure. The tour is designed to accommodate small groups of up to 6 participants, ensuring personalized guidance and a cozy atmosphere.

While this tour is relatively short—ideal for families with young children or visitors short on time—it still delivers the core excitement of dog sledding with the chance to interact with passionate huskies and take beautiful souvenir photos. The easy difficulty level makes it accessible for most, though it’s important to note that it’s not suitable for people with certain health conditions or for children under specific ages. Expect a fun, safe, and scenic experience that captures the essence of Quebec’s snowy wilderness.

Key Points

• Short and sweet: A 15-minute dog sled adventure, perfect for a quick outdoor thrill.
• Family-friendly options: Includes a 1h30 Family Ride with interaction and photo opportunities.
• More active choices: The Half-Day Boreal Adventure lets participants drive their own sled, offering a moderate to difficult challenge.
• Nighttime magic: The Family Night Ride offers a magical moonlit experience with soft lighting.
• Location and meeting point: Starts at Ferme 5 étoiles in Sacré-Coeur, just 15 minutes from Tadoussac.
• Weather considerations: Dress warmly in thermal, snow, and waterproof clothing; rentals available.

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The Location of the Sledding Adventures in Saguenay Fjord

This tour takes place just outside Tadoussac, a renowned spot for whale watching and natural beauty, but departs from the Ferme 5 étoiles – Centre de vacances in Sacré-Coeur. The Saguenay Fjord forms a stunning backdrop for the sledding trails, with snow-covered scenery that feels straight out of a fairy tale. The proximity to Tadoussac makes it easy to combine this adventure with other activities in the area, like whale watching or exploring the local landscape.

The meeting point is well-marked, and arriving one hour prior is recommended to prepare clothing and handle check-in procedures.

Different Riding Options for All Ages and Levels

This tour offers three distinct options to suit varying preferences and physical abilities:

• The Family Ride (1h30): Designed for families or first-timers, this option includes a 40-minute sled ride with opportunities to pet huskies and take photos. Participants are seated or stand on the runners alongside the musher. The role swapping midway ensures everyone gets a turn to drive or ride. Children under 3 years old are not permitted for this option.

• The Boreal Adventure (Half-Day): Geared toward outdoor lovers and experienced participants, this option involves driving your own sled under the supervision of an experienced guide. It’s a longer, more physically demanding experience that explores more of the boreal forest and wild landscapes. Children under 14 years old are not allowed to drive, and the activity is rated moderate to difficult.

• The Family Night Ride Adventure: This special nighttime experience features soft lighting and silence of the snow-covered wilderness, creating a magical atmosphere. It follows the same format as the Family Ride but offers a unique nocturnal view of the landscape. Children under 8 years old cannot participate in this option.

All options are led by passionate mushers who ensure safety and fun, making each experience personal and engaging.

What to Expect During the Dog Sled Excursion

The core of this tour is the dog sled ride across the snowy trails of Saguenay Fjord. Participants in the Family Ride sit comfortably in the sled or stand on the runners, feeling the power of a team of up to 810 huskies. The scenic backdrop of Canada’s vast winter landscapes enhances the thrill and provides plenty of opportunities for photo moments.

During the ride, the musher guides explain the operation of the sledding team and share insights about the huskies’ care and training. The swap roles midway ensures everyone gets a chance to drive and enjoy the scenery from the sled. For the Night Ride, the trail takes on an almost magical glow, with nature sounds enhancing the immersive experience.

Practical Details and What to Bring

Participants should arrive one hour before the scheduled start, dressed in warm, snow, and thermal clothing. Closed-toe shoes are required, and rental clothing is available at an additional $20 per person plus taxes. The activity duration varies from 1.5 to 2.5 hours, based on the chosen option.

Since the activity involves outdoor physical effort and exposure to winter weather, good preparation is essential. The tour is not suitable for those with heart conditions, severe asthma, or recent surgeries. It’s also not recommended for pregnant women or people with a low level of fitness.

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Safety and Accessibility Considerations

The tour maintains high safety standards with experienced guides supervising all sledding activities. Children under 3 years and those under 8 years for the Night Ride are not allowed. Participants should wear appropriate winter clothing, and difficulties range from easy for the Family Ride to moderate or difficult for the Boreal Adventure.

The activity excludes individuals with weights over 264 lbs (120 kg). People with certain health issues, such as heart problems or respiratory conditions, are advised to prefer other activities.

The Guides and Their Expertise

Guides are passionate musher experts who explain the dog sledding process clearly. They create a friendly environment, making it easy for participants to interact with the huskies and understand the traditions of sled dog racing. Their knowledge and enthusiasm are often praised in reviews, adding a layer of authenticity to the experience.

Comparing the Short and Longer Tours

The 15-minute tour provides a quick but authentic dog sled experience suitable for families, kids, or those with limited time. It includes interaction with huskies, photos, and a scenic ride. Conversely, the Half-Day Boreal Adventure offers a more immersive, hands-on experience with sled driving and exploration of more remote wilderness.

The Night Ride appeals to those seeking a romantic or tranquil experience, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland under the stars or moonlight.

Booking, Cancellation, and Flexibility

Reservations are flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for peace of mind in planning. The tour accommodates small groups to ensure a personalized experience with limited to 6 participants.

Why Choose This Dog Sled Excursion in Saguenay Fjord?

This tour offers a genuine glimpse into Quebec’s winter traditions, with passionate guides, scenic landscapes, and friendly huskies. The short duration makes it accessible for those who want a quick outdoor activity without sacrificing authenticity.

The different options allow for customization—whether you prefer a family-friendly ride, a full-musk experience, or a magical nighttime journey. The location near Tadoussac adds to the overall appeal, making it easy to combine with other regional adventures.

While it is a shorter experience, it does not skimp on quality or atmosphere. This tour fits outdoor lovers, families, and adventure seekers who want to enjoy a classic dog sledding experience with the stunning backdrop of Saguenay Fjord.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the dog sled tour last?
The activity duration ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the chosen option, with 15 minutes dedicated specifically to the sled ride.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children under 3 years are not permitted for the Family Ride, and under 8 years cannot participate in the Night Ride. It’s ideal for families with older children or those comfortable with outdoor snowy activities.

What should I wear for the tour?
Participants should bring warm clothing, snow gear, thermal layers, and closed-toe shoes. Rental clothing is available at $20 per person plus taxes.

Can I drive my own sled?
Yes, during the Boreal Adventure, participants drive their own sleds under supervision. It’s rated moderate to difficult, suitable for participants aged 14 and above.

Is the tour suitable for people with health issues?
The activity is not suitable for those with heart conditions, severe asthma, recent surgeries, or injuries. It’s important to consult your health before booking.

What makes the Night Ride special?
The Night Ride features soft lighting and a tranquil winter landscape, creating a magical atmosphere that enhances the winter wilderness experience.

How many Huskies are involved in the sled team?
The sleds are pulled by a team of up to 810 huskies, providing a powerful and exhilarating ride.

What is the cancellation policy?
Reservations can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience accessible for people with mobility issues?
The data does not specify accessibility accommodations; the activity involves outdoor snow riding and physical effort, so it may not be suitable for everyone with mobility restrictions.

This dog sled adventure in Saguenay Fjord offers a compact, authentic, and family-friendly way to experience Quebec’s winter. Whether you opt for the short ride, the full-day drive, or the magical night excursion, the passionate mushers and stunning scenery make this a memorable outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby