Adventure brief
Expédition 3 jours Motoneige guidée - Sur la Piste des loups des Monts Notre Dame
Explore Quebec’s Monts Notre Dame on a thrilling 3-day guided snowmobile expedition. Ride through snowy forests, visit a wolf sanctuary, enjoy maple syrup traditions, and experience ice fishing in a uniquely wild winter landscape.
Set against the expansive wilderness of Quebec’s Monts Notre Dame, this three-day guided snowmobile expedition is a winter journey crafted for adventure seekers eager to explore deep snowy forests, frozen lakes, and cultural landmarks off the beaten path. Starting in Saint-Just-de-Bretenières, a quaint village near Quebec’s border with Maine, this trip unlocks access to some of the most pristine landscapes in Eastern Canada across 500 to 600 kilometers of rugged trails. Your adventure begins at Chalets Villégiature & Pourvoirie Daaquam, where you’re greeted with warmth and introduced to your expert guide and cold-weather gear.
Day one sets the tone with a scenic ride to Mont Bonnet, including a route through the Parc des Appalaches and vast peat bogs, culminating in panoramic views of Mont Katahdin—the tallest peak in Maine. As twilight falls, ice fishing on a tranquil frozen lake offers a serene end to the day before a cozy night settles in a charming lodge or cabin. Day two reveals the trip’s cultural and wildlife highlights.
After a maple syrup–soaked breakfast, you'll visit the enchanting Wolf Sanctuary. Here, you can observe and learn about wolves in a protected natural setting — an unforgettable encounter to appreciate their ecological role. Later, a stop at a family-run sugar shack offers an authentic taste of Quebecois tradition with freshly made maple taffy on snow, a sweet ritual steeped in local history.
The afternoon ride ascends Mont Saint-Magloire, rewarding riders with breathtaking views over dense forests and undulating peaks before returning for another comfortable night. Your final day rides along the Saint-Jean River, skirting the Canadian–American border, then ventures onto frozen Lac Abénakis. The sight of its winter fishing huts, colorful and clustered against the ice, encapsulates the spirit of remote winter life.
The journey continues through Saint-Aurélie village, where attentive riders might spot a rare gathering of white-tailed deer amidst the snowy forest backdrop. This trip blends active exploration, natural wonders, and cultural moments, making it a standout winter experience in Quebec’s outdoor recreation scene. This guided expedition offers more than just miles of snowmobile trails; it’s a deep dive into a remarkable winter wilderness with carefully curated stops, from wolf encounters to local sugar shack traditions.
Participants ride high-performance Ski-Doo Expeditions equipped for cold weather, with all essentials provided, including meals, accommodations, and gear. For riders with intermediate snowmobiling skills seeking a memorable mix of adventure and culture, this trip is a must-book for winter travel in Quebec.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Dress in layers for cold weatheressential
Temperatures can plunge deep below freezing; layered clothing helps regulate your body heat during long rides.
- 02Bring a helmet-compatible balaclavaessential
Protect your face from wind chill and frostbite during high-speed snowmobiling.
- 03Check snowmobile experience levelinfo
This expedition is designed for intermediate riders; beginners should consider training first.
- 04Stay hydrated and fueledwarning
Carry water and snacks; cold weather riding requires steady energy and hydration.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Thermal base layers
Keep your core warm and dry under bulky outerwear during prolonged cold exposure.
winterEssentialInsulated snowmobile suit
Protects from wind and snow while maintaining mobility.
winterEssentialWaterproof gloves and boots
Essential for keeping extremities warm and dry during cold rides and stops.
winterEssentialHelmet with face shield
Ensures safety and shields eyes from snow glare and wind.
winterEssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Mont Saint-Magloire viewpoint for expansive forest vistas, Colorful ice fishing huts on Lac Abénakis
Local fauna
Wolves at the sanctuary, White-tailed deer in Saint-Aurélie
Historic heritage
The Parc des Appalaches region has long been a natural corridor sustaining diverse wildlife and indigenous cultures.
Mindful exploration
The outfitter promotes responsible riding to preserve sensitive winter ecosystems and supports local conservation initiatives.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Mont Bonnet summit, Wolf Sanctuary observation areas, Lac Abénakis ice fishing village
- Subjects
- Snowmobile action shots, Wildlife such as wolves and deer, Winter landscapes with frozen lakes and snow-covered forests
- Best times
- Golden hour at sunrise and sunset, Midday for clear, crisp shots
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
What is the minimum age to participate?
The minimum age is 8 years old; minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Are previous snowmobiling skills required?
Yes, intermediate-level snowmobiling skills are recommended for safety and enjoyment.
Is cold-weather gear provided?
Yes, the outfitter supplies 'Grand Froid' gear including overalls, jackets, gloves, boots, and a helmet.
What wildlife might I see on this trip?
Expect to see wolves at the sanctuary, white-tailed deer, and potentially other forest animals native to Quebec.
Are meals included in the package?
Full board is included, covering all meals during the stay.
How far do we ride each day?
Riders cover approximately 160-185 kilometers daily over varied terrain.