Tails & Leashes: Canine Adventures in the Laurentians, Canada
This travel spot is featured in our eighth blog series, Lassies Loved.
What could be better than canoeing to a quiet island, sniffing out new trails, and discovering the beauty of nature together? From peaceful lakes and lush forests to colourful autumn leaves and snowy woodland paths, the Laurentians are full of surprises for curious canines and their humans. Every season brings a new adventure, a new scent, and another reason to grab the leash and explore!
The Laurentians, located in Canada just north of Montréal, are a beautiful four-season destination where rolling mountains, sparkling lakes, winding country roads, and charming villages create the perfect setting for a getaway with your dog. This beloved region is known for its sweeping forested landscapes, colourful autumn foliage, snow-covered hills in winter, and peaceful lakeside scenery in the warmer months. Quaint villages blend French-Canadian charm with a relaxed outdoor lifestyle, offering inviting cafés, local boutiques, picturesque streets to explore, and plenty of opportunities to slow down and enjoy the surroundings.
For travellers with dogs, the Laurentians are especially appealing, with scenic walking routes, forest adventures, dog-friendly patios, cozy cottages, and pet-friendly accommodations that make it easier to bring your best friend along. Whether you’re looking for a lively village atmosphere, a quiet retreat surrounded by nature, or a little of both, there’s a corner of the Laurentians to suit your style. Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts is an excellent place to begin exploring, with nearby towns offering their own unique charm and dog-friendly discoveries to add to your itinerary.
Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts is known for its picturesque setting around Lac des Sables, its relaxed atmosphere, and its access to the natural beauty of the Laurentian Mountains. Travelling with a dog there is all about enjoying the outdoors at a comfortable pace. You can visit the municipal dog park, Parc à chiens de Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, where your four-legged companion can enjoy some exercise and playtime. The area also offers pleasant walking routes where you and your dog can enjoy the fresh air and beautiful Laurentian scenery together. When it’s time for a meal or a treat, stop at La Veillée – Microbrasserie & Pub, located in the heart of downtown, just a short walk from Lac des Sables. This charming microbrewery serves bistro-style food, craft beers, and vegetarian options, and its dog-friendly patio makes it a lovely place to relax with your pup. For something sweet, La Diperie is another option to visit with your dog, offering a fun stop for an ice cream treat while exploring town. Together, these spots make Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts a delightful destination for enjoying local flavours and outdoor adventures with your four-legged companion.
Mont-Tremblant is one of the region's most popular destinations and a fantastic option for dog owners who enjoy a combination of outdoor activities and village life. Its pedestrian village features colourful buildings, mountain views, and walking areas where leashed dogs can accompany their owners. For some off-leash fun, Parc canin du Ruisseau-Clair offers a public space where dogs can run and play in designated fenced areas for small and large dogs. During suitable seasons, certain trails and panoramic gondola experiences also welcome dogs under specific conditions, making it possible to enjoy the mountain scenery together. When it's time to refuel, La Forge Bistro Bar & Grill is a great dog-friendly dining option in the pedestrian village. Dogs are welcome on the main patio, and water is available for four-legged guests. The restaurant is also close to grassy areas, making it convenient to take your pup for a quick potty break before or after your meal. Mont-Tremblant is particularly appealing for an extended weekend filled with scenic walks, shopping, delicious food, and outdoor adventures with your four-legged companion.
Saint-Sauveur is a wonderful destination for exploring the Laurentians with your furry best friend! Enjoy a scenic walk together at Parc John-H.-Molson, where you and your leashed pup can get some fresh air and explore the wooded walking trails. After your walk, head into the village and stroll along Rue Principale, where you can soak up the lively atmosphere and discover charming local shops. When it’s time to relax, stop at Ye Olde Orchard Pub & Grill, where well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome on the outdoor terrace. Enjoy pub favourites while your four-legged travel companion rests right beside you. Dog owners have even reported that staff brought out a water bowl for their pup—a thoughtful touch that makes patio dining together even more enjoyable. The terrace is seasonal, so check availability before your visit. With outdoor walks, village charm, and dog-friendly patio dining, Saint-Sauveur is a great place to make special memories together!
Sainte-Adèle is a lovely destination for a dog-friendly getaway in the heart of the Laurentians! If your furry best friend loves making new friends, stop by Parc canin Claude-Cardinal, the town’s dedicated dog park, where small and large dogs have separate areas to run, play, and socialize off leash. With benches for their humans, a dog drinking fountain, and seasonal shade, it’s a great place for your pup to stretch their legs and enjoy some playtime during your travels. After all that fun, head to NOÖK Café, a charming neighbourhood café on Rue Valiquette, where you can enjoy specialty coffee and a selection of fresh, wholesome bites. Dogs are welcome on the outdoor terrace, making it a lovely spot to relax together when the weather is right. The terrace is seasonal, so check with the café before your visit. With a dedicated space for canine play and a cozy café stop to round out your outing, Sainte-Adèle offers a delightful way to enjoy the Laurentians with your four-legged companion!
![[Laurentides, Ste-Adèle] Parc canin Claude-Cardinal Ste-Adèle — On va se promener](http://static1.squarespace.com/static/5a9eb291af20965bb4edae4c/5abbd07d758d462671c8a64b/5cfbbc2fee2293000119f750/1724330906137/56666835_298150904418440_7731979724611649536_n%2B%25281%2529.jpg?format=1500w)
Val-David is a charming destination for dog-loving travellers who enjoy artistic villages, independent shops, and outdoor adventures. Stroll through the village streets with your pup, explore pet-friendly boutiques, or discover dog-permitted sections of the P’tit Train du Nord for a scenic walk. If you’re looking for a water adventure, some local canoe and kayak operators may welcome dogs on selected outings, so check their policies before booking. When it’s time to eat, visit MacTaverne Pub, a pet-friendly, family-run restaurant where dogs are welcome at the umbrella-shaded outdoor patio tables. Blending British pub traditions with Quebec flavours, the menu features favourites such as fish and chips, Scotch eggs, and steak. It’s a lovely place to relax with your four-legged companion after a day exploring Val-David!
Saint-Jérôme is a great stop for dog-loving travellers exploring the Laurentians! Give your pup time to run, play, and make new friends at the fenced Parc canin on boulevard Jean-Baptiste-Rolland, which features separate areas for small and large dogs. When it’s time to refuel, head to Gare 422, a welcoming resto-bar where you and your four-legged companion can enjoy a meal together on the seasonal outdoor patio. The menu features comfort-food favourites such as omelettes, pancakes, salads, pasta, and grilled meats, making it a versatile stop for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The patio is seasonal, so check with the restaurant before your visit to confirm its current dog policy. Saint-Jérôme is a lovely addition to any dog-friendly Laurentians road trip!
The Laurentians offer plenty of opportunities to create unforgettable memories with your dog, from scenic walks and charming villages to relaxing stays and outdoor dining. Whether you explore Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, Mont-Tremblant, Saint-Sauveur, Sainte-Adèle, Val-David, or Saint-Jérôme, you're sure to find something to enjoy together. Just remember to check pet policies before visiting, pack your essentials, and get ready for a wonderful dog-friendly adventure.
Paws Rest Here
Luie Boone had paw-selected this perfect vacation rental for your stay in the Laurentians, Canada. Check it out below!
Rental Name: Sandy Lake Chalet
This rental has 4 bedrooms with 6 beds and 2.5 baths.
Photos by Lakefront Chalets Laurentians
It features the following amenities:
A private, one-acre forested and lakefront property
Beautiful lake views from multiple rooms
A foosball table for indoor fun
A hot tub in a private, south-facing covered gazebo
A large deck overlooking the lake
A Weber BBQ on the deck for outdoor meals
A spacious, flat grassy lawn leading directly to the lake
A firepit near the water for cozy evenings
Three to four boats, including a canoe and kayaks
Walking trails to explore
A fantastic location for stargazing under the night sky
What would Luie Boone have thought of this rental? He would have woofed:
My humans had planned a wonderful vacation at Sandy Lake Chalet in the beautiful Laurentians, and I was so excited! Of course, my favourite stuffed animal, Roger the otter, was coming along. I was going to pack him in my backpack so he could join me on all our adventures! Sandy Lake Chalet sounded like a doggy paradise! A spacious lakefront home, a big grassy lawn, towering trees, and a forest trail full of wonderful smells to explore. I dreamed of walking beside my humans, with Roger riding proudly in my backpack.There would be a beautiful lake, birds and squirrels to watch, and plenty of room for adventures. My humans could relax on the large deck, fire up the BBQ, and enjoy the private, covered gazebo with its inviting hot tub. I imagined peaceful evenings listening to frogs croak and crickets chirp beneath a sky full of brilliant stars.But sometimes, life takes a different path than the one we planned. Before I could make this special trip with my humans, I crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. My paws will never walk those forest trails, and Roger and I won't get to see the lake together as we had imagined.
My humans loved me too much to imagine taking this vacation without me. They decided not to go. Sandy Lake Chalet would have to wait.Though our vacation never happened, our love will last forever. Until we meet again beyond the Rainbow Bridge, I’ll be running free beneath the stars, forever in their hearts, with Roger always by my side!
Paws Venture Here
Luie Boone had sniffed out and dug up these local gems for you to check out while vacationing in the Laurentians, Canada!
Parc naturel du Lac-Jérôme
Looking for a peaceful outdoor adventure with your four-legged best friend?
Parc naturel du Lac-Jérôme in Saint-Jérôme is a lovely place to explore!
With more than 3.7 miles of forest trails, there are plenty of new smells to sniff and beautiful natural scenery to enjoy together.
Keep your dog on a leash as you wander the peaceful woodland paths.
The trails lead to beautiful Lac Jérôme, where you can admire the lake and surrounding forest. Swimming is prohibited for both dogs and people, so enjoy the views from the shore.
Bring water and waste bags, follow park rules, and take your time exploring.
With its tranquil forest and lovely lake views, this park is a wonderful place to enjoy some quality time with your furry companion.
![[Laurentides, St-Jérôme] Parc nature du Lac-Jérôme — On va se promener](http://static1.squarespace.com/static/5a9eb291af20965bb4edae4c/5abbd07d758d462671c8a64b/5da9f25e57ce3124513731dc/1724328880153/72463239_525744104659470_8052964981651537920_n.jpg?format=1500w)
Mont Durocher
Mont Durocher in Sainte-Adèle is a lovely spot for a mountain adventure with your four-legged companion!
With forest trails, rocky landscapes, and beautiful views over the Laurentians, it’s a rewarding outing for dogs and their humans.
Keep your pup on a leash as you explore together.
At the summit, you’ll find two bright red Adirondack chairs, perfectly placed for taking a break and admiring the scenery. They’re also a wonderful photo opportunity! Imagine your furry friend posing proudly beside the iconic red chairs with the Laurentian landscape stretching out behind you.
Mont Durocher has a little local history, too! The mountain is named after the Durocher family, who once owned and farmed the land. Their family farm eventually gave way to the outdoor recreation area visitors enjoy today.
Whether you’re there for the forest adventure, the beautiful views, or that special photo beside the two red chairs, Mont Durocher is a wonderful place to explore and make memories with your best furry friend.
Werewolf Mountain
Looking for a mountain with a mysterious name and a fascinating legend to discover on your Laurentian adventure with your pup?
Meet Werewolf Mountain (Mont Loup-Garou) in Sainte-Adèle.
The mountain gets its intriguing name from the loup-garou, the mythical werewolf deeply rooted in French-Canadian folklore.
Traditional tales tell of people transforming into werewolves, often because of curses, and strange happenings under the cover of darkness.
Local legends associated with the mountain include a hunter who reportedly disappeared after venturing out at night, leaving behind his gun and scraps of leather.
Another curious tale speaks of horses found with their tails braided after a full-moon night.
These stories are folklore rather than verified historical events, but they certainly give Werewolf Mountain an air of mystery!
For dog lovers, visiting this mountain is a chance to enjoy the beauty of the Laurentians with your four-legged companion while discovering a little piece of Québec folklore.
Take in the forested mountain scenery, breathe in the fresh air, and let your pup enjoy a new outdoor adventure by your side.
Who knows what your furry explorer will find fascinating about this legendary place?
Panoramic Gondola
Want to see the Laurentians from a whole new perspective with your four-legged travel buddy?
The Panoramic Gondola at Mont-Tremblant offers a memorable mountain adventure you can enjoy together!
Hop aboard and ride up the mountain while taking in beautiful views of the surrounding forests, rolling hills, and lakes.
At the top, you can soak up the scenery and snap some special photos with your furry co-adventurer.
Dogs are welcome on the gondola during the summer and fall season, making this a unique way to experience Mont-Tremblant without a long hike.
Keep your pup leashed and check the gondola’s current operating schedule and pet policies before visiting, as access can vary by season.
A mountain-top view, fresh air, and an adventure with your best friend—what could be better?
Doncaster River Park
The sound of rushing water and the beauty of forest cascades make Doncaster River Park in Sainte-Adèle a lovely place to explore with your furry companion!
Your pup can sniff new scents, explore the forest paths, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the river.
Dogs must stay on a leash, so keep your furry explorer close as you wander together.
The Doncaster River has a fascinating past. In the 1920s, a hydroelectric station was built here to generate electricity using the river’s power. Today, visitors can enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.
The river and surrounding forest support a variety of wildlife, including trout and birds.
As you explore with your pup, keep an eye out for wildlife and let your dog enjoy all the exciting new scents along the way!
Bring water and waste bags, and enjoy a refreshing riverside outing with your four-legged friend!
À l’Abordage
Ready to take to the water with your furry adventure buddy?
À l’Abordage! in Val-David welcomes dogs on its shuttles and in its canoes when accompanied by a responsible owner!
Paddle down the river together and enjoy the beautiful Laurentian scenery from the water.
Your pup can join you for a refreshing change from the usual hiking trails and a chance to explore the outdoors in a whole new way.
Before setting off, check with À l’Abordage! about available routes and any safety requirements for bringing your dog along.
Bring fresh water, plan for your pup’s comfort, and consider a well-fitted canine life jacket.
Get ready to make wonderful memories together on the river!
Mont-Tremblant Heritage Tour
Enjoy a little local history with your four-legged travel buddy on the Mont-Tremblant Heritage Tour!
This free, self-guided outdoor circuit features 24 panels and 10 plaques installed throughout the city, sharing stories about Mont-Tremblant’s past.
Explore local heritage landmarks together, including the historic village sector and downtown areas, with sites near 1829 Village Road.
Take your time discovering the stories behind the places you visit while your pup enjoys all the new sights, sounds, and smells along the way.
Keep your dog on a leash, bring waste bags, and check access rules before entering any buildings or private sites along the route.
Best of all, this heritage adventure is free to enjoy!
It’s a lovely way to discover another side of Mont-Tremblant while spending quality time with your furry companion.
Uni-Vers Canin etc.
Uni-Vers Canin etc. in Saint-Jérôme, Quebec, is a fun destination for dogs and their humans!
This dog-friendly spot offers indoor and outdoor play areas, a café, grooming services, daycare, and a pet boutique filled with goodies for your furry companion.
Whether your pup wants to enjoy some playtime, meet other dogs, or be pampered, there’s plenty to explore.
It’s also a lovely place for dog lovers to connect and share their passion for their four-legged friends.
If you’re exploring the Laurentians with your canine companion, Uni-Vers Canin etc. is a fun stop to consider.
Check ahead for current hours, available services, and any access requirements before your visit.
Because every dog deserves a little adventure of their own!
Luie Boone's Pet Peeve about
The Laurentians, Canada
There's just so much to love about this vacation destination, but there's one thing that would have put Luie Boone's leash in a twist and he would have woofed:
My humans had planned a vacation to the beautiful Laurentians in Canada, and I couldn’t wait! Forests, fresh air, gorgeous lakes… surely, there would be plenty of swimming for a water-loving dog like me! And of course, I was bringing my travel buddy, Roger, my stuffed otter. No adventure is complete without him! But there’s one little problem a swimming pup like me might face. Those sparkling lakes look absolutely perfect for a refreshing dip, but some beaches and swimming areas don’t allow dogs. Imagine finding the perfect spot, only to discover I have to stay on shore! The splashes, the ripples, the smells… oh, the disappointment! Even Roger was ready for a swim! Luckily, some places do welcome dogs, so my humans just need to check the rules and find a dog-friendly spot for us to enjoy together.
Sadly, our vacation never happened. Before we could set off on our adventure, I crossed the Rainbow Bridge. My humans were heartbroken and couldn’t imagine taking the trip without me, so they decided to stay home. The Laurentians would have to wait.
I may never get to splash in those beautiful lakes, but I’ll always be part of my humans’ memories. And maybe one day, when they’re ready, they’ll visit the Laurentians and think of me and Roger, imagining how happily I would have been jumping into the water. Until then, my humans, please remember me whenever you see a beautiful lake. And if dogs are allowed to swim, please enjoy a little splash for me!
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