Among all the winter activities the Laurentians have to offer, few rival the magic and authenticity of a dog sledding excursion. With Expédition Wolf, located near Le Refuge des Eaux Vives, you have the opportunity to experience this emblematic Quebec adventure in exceptional conditions. Whether you're seeking adrenaline, connection with nature, or simply a memorable experience, dog sledding will mark you forever.

Expédition Wolf is one of the most respected dog sledding companies in the Mont-Tremblant region. Founded in the mid-1990s by Gaëtan Lambert, a dog sledding enthusiast for over forty years, the company is home to over 100 Siberian and Alaskan huskies, many of which are rescue dogs. The company favors an authentic approach where participants drive their own sled, supervised by experienced guides.

The complete adventure lasts about 2 hours, including a welcome briefing, meeting your team of 4-8 huskies, an approximately 10 km excursion through mountain forest trails, and time to thank your four-legged companions. The trails wind through the Laurentian forest, offering breathtaking landscapes as you cross snowy spruce forests, follow frozen lakes, and climb hills with spectacular viewpoints.

One of the most touching dimensions of dog sledding is the bond that quickly forms between you and your team. Huskies are passionate athletes who love to run and pull. Their enthusiasm is contagious! You'll feel their palpable excitement at departure, their determination during the race, and discover their distinct personalities. This collaboration between human and animal creates a deeply moving experience.

Dog sledding is an integral part of Quebec history and culture. It was once the main means of winter transport for trappers, gold seekers, and inhabitants of northern regions. Living this experience means touching an important part of Quebec heritage and understanding how people learned not only to survive, but to thrive in the rigors of Canadian winter.

The activity offers a perfect balance between accessibility and adventure. You don't need to be an athlete or have prior experience – guides teach you everything you need. Yet the activity provides real thrills: speed through the forest, controlling the team, tight turns, climbs and descents.

Practical Details:

Season: Early December to late March, with the best period from January to early March.

Schedule: Offered 7 days a week, morning or afternoon. Morning departures (around 9am) offer magnificent light and cooler temperatures ideal for dogs.

Rates (2024-2025): Adults (16-65 years): ~$195 CAD + taxes; Teens (12-15 years): ~$145 CAD + taxes; Children (4-11 years): ~$95 CAD + taxes.

Reservation: STRONGLY recommended to book in advance, particularly during high season (Christmas holidays, spring break, February-March weekends).

Website: expeditionwolf.com

Clothing Tips – CRUCIAL:

On a sled, you're relatively immobile, which means you'll be cold if not properly dressed. Prepare as if you'll spend 2 hours outside without moving.

• Warm hat covering ears well
• Neck warmer or scarf
• Sunglasses or ski goggles
• Thermal underwear (base layer)
• Fleece or wool sweater (middle layer)
• Warm and windproof winter coat (outer layer)
• Warm mittens (bring a spare pair)
• Consider disposable hand warmers for very cold days
• Long thermal underwear
• Snow pants or waterproof winter pants
• Thick wool socks (bring a spare pair)
• Waterproof and well-insulated winter boots

Integrating into Your Stay:

Morning Option: 7:30am – Breakfast at Refuge 8:30am – Departure for Expédition Wolf 9:00am – Start of adventure 11:00am – End of activity 11:30am – Return to Refuge Afternoon – Hot tub relaxation, rest

Afternoon Option: Morning – Relaxation at Refuge 1:00pm – Departure 1:30pm – Start of adventure 3:30pm – End 4:00pm – Return before nightfall Evening – Extended hot tub, dinner

Dog sledding combines well with cross-country skiing at 6 Cantons or a Mont Gorille hike on different days.

The Dogs:

Siberian and Alaskan huskies have been selected for centuries for their endurance, cold resistance, strength, and passion for running. They have double coats, paws adapted to snow, exceptional metabolism, and are generally energetic, sociable, intelligent, and passionate about running.

Ethical companies like Expédition Wolf prioritize their dogs' well-being: regular veterinary care, high-quality food, adequate rest between races, individual attention and socialization, and comfortable living conditions. The dogs are visibly happy and healthy – you'll see it in their overflowing enthusiasm!

History:

Dog sledding isn't just a tourist activity – it's an important part of Canadian and Quebec history. Indigenous peoples used sled dogs for centuries. They played crucial roles during the Klondike Gold Rush (1896-1899), ensured postal service in isolated regions, and were essential for polar expeditions. Although snowmobiles have largely replaced sled dogs for utilitarian transport, the practice endures as a sporting, recreational, and cultural activity.

Who It's For:

Dog sledding suits families (children respecting minimum age can ride with adults), couples seeking a romantic adventure, groups of friends, solo travelers, and photographers. The photographic opportunities are exceptional.

Booking:

1. Visit expeditionwolf.com
2. Consult the availability calendar
3. Select your preferred date and time
4. Book online or contact them directly
5. Confirm details

Important: Book well in advance for holiday periods and popular weekends!

The dog sledding experience with Expédition Wolf represents the very essence of Quebec winter adventure. It's a unique combination of excitement, connection with nature, interaction with extraordinary animals, and immersion in an ancestral tradition. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or someone who rarely leaves their comfort zone, dog sledding will mark you deeply.

The silence of the snowy forest, the contagious energy of huskies, the pure beauty of winter landscapes, and the sense of accomplishment from driving your own team combine to create a truly magical experience. During your next winter stay at Le Refuge des Eaux Vives, dare the adventure. Dress warmly, head to Expédition Wolf, and let a pack of enthusiastic huskies take you through the snowy forests of the Laurentians. It's an adventure you'll tell for years, an experience that perfectly captures the magic of Quebec winter.

The North is calling. The dogs are ready. Are you ready to live the adventure?