Station touristique Duchesnay

Skiers appreciate the top-notch trails of the Station Duchesnay. They are well maintained and patrolled.

The trails' safety is ensured by volunteers from the Canadian Ski Patrol.

A network of 47 km of linear trails divided into circuits:

• 36 km for classic skiing
• 14.7 km for skate skiing

Services available:

• 4 wood-heated huts
• Well-equipped ski centre
• Equipment rental
• Ski school
• Hus-ski cross-country skiing club (in French only)

Period: Mid-December to the end of March (depending on snow conditions)

Map of trails (in French only)

Cross-country skiing trail track-setting policy

Free cross-country skiing for children!

Access to cross-country skiing  trails is available free of charge for children 17 years of age and under, accompanied by an adult.

Season pass and booklet

Two attractive and affordable formulas: the season pass and a booklet of 12 day passes that you can share are valid in the Sépaq network’s 7 cross-country skiing centres. Obtain them on site. The booklet is also available online. Find out more

Information and season pass contract (in French only)

Day Passes

Day passes are available on the site or online either the day before or the day of your cross-country skiing outing.

Special rate after 3 p.m.

At the end of a very busy day, you can hit the cross-country ski trails at a special price.

Staying with Us? Free Cross-Country Skiing!

This winter, access to the cross-country skiing trails is free for customers staying at Sépaq-network cross-country skiing centres. Present your booking confirmation at check-in to get your ski tickets. Tickets valid on your day of arrival, throughout your stay and on your day of departure. Tickets may only be used at the establishment at which you are staying.

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Time for relaxation! Our Scandinavian-inspired Spa Duchesnay offers a unique concept in a natural environment. In addition to indulging in a wide variety of massotherapy treatments, guests can relax in the hot and cold Nordic baths as well as in the sauna.

Information: 418-875-2711, extension 4225

Details, schedule and rates

Delve into nature and enjoy our 22.4 km of marked snowshoeing trails. Four warming huts await you along the trails. Free access for our overnight guests (room or cabin). Snowshoe rental included with vacationing package (room).

Snowshoes rental is available at the Horizon lodge. Daily rate

Map of trails (in French only)

Each year we make a skating rink. People of all ages love to go skating in Duchesnay's forest setting. Free for our overnight guests (room or cabin). Skate rental included in vacationing package (room).

Kids and adults adore our snow-tubing hill! It's near the L'Aigle Lodge, just a few steps from the hotel. There's no chair lift, so, along with fun, you'll also get more exercise! Free inner tube loans for our overnight cabin or vacation package guests (room).

Ice fishing is available in Baie de Duchesnay. With family or friends, tantalize speckled trout and smallmouth bass, among other fish species.

This activity is offered in conjunction with Association chasse et pêche Catshalac.

For information, call Odette Paré, 418 875-0357

Station touristique Duchesnay is near a major trail operated by the Fédération des clubs de motoneigistes du Québec.

If you would like to try this activity, contact our partner Aventure Inukshuk (418 875-0770). Snowmobiles can be rented by the day or half-day.

More experienced drivers will appreciate taking a break at the Station to warm up, have a meal or enjoy a cozy overnight stay. The Station has a place to store snowmobiles for the night.

Map of nearby trails (in French only)

This old form of transportation is an increasingly popular activity in Québec. Witness the teamwork of the musher and his dogs while exploring the forest. This unique outing is the result of a partnership with Aventure Inukshuk.

Information: 418 875-0770

Have you heard of Hok skis? This versatile gear combines the qualities of cross country skis and snowshoes. They are almost exclusively used off track. The bottom of the ski is partially covered with a climbing skin for uphill traction. It also has a universal binding that fits several kinds of boots. Hok skis are very easy to handle and are therefore perfect for beginners. They allow faster off-track displacement than snowshoes. Experience this new Quebec-made snow toy, which was inspired by a thousand-year-old activity practiced in the Altaï Mountains.

Hok skis rental is available at the Horizon lodge.

Come and try out our 145 cm Hok skis, as well as our Balla Hok for children. The entire family will be thoroughly delighted! Skiing enthusiasts will be in seventh heaven with 145 cm skis, while kids of 8 years of age or older can now explore the forest with 99 cm skis that are better suited to the smaller fry.

Video (in French only)

Map of Hok skiing area limits - initiation zone (in French only)

Map of Hok skiing area limits Carte - backcountry zone (in French only)

3 Hok Ski Areas

We offer 3 Hok ski areas – one near the Horizon Lodge, where you can enjoy beautiful descents all the way to the shore of Lac Saint-Joseph. After each descent, you can take a quick short-cut trail back to the top. The other 2 areas are about 5 km from the Horizon Lodge near the Sommet hut. Since it is farther away, this sector is best suited for those with experience in backcountry skiing.

Enjoy your favourite boating activities on Lac Saint-Joseph, a big lake. Canoes, kayaks, pedal boats, rabaskas and S.U.P. board are available for rent. Free for cabin and vacation package guests (for 2 h at a time, a limited number are lent out). Rates and operating periods for rental.

Sail and Pedal Kayaks

Test the waters in a whole new way! You don’t need any experience to use this fun and safe boat. Cast off, trim the sail and push the pedals for the new experience of the summer! Rental is not included with cabins and vacation packages.

*Subject to change depending on the weather

With this water sport, a distant cousin of surfing, you’ll see Lac Saint-Joseph from a different angle. Test your balance as you stand on a big surfboard with your paddle in hand. Free for vacation package customers (room and cabin). Stand up paddle boards can be rented by the hour or the half day. Rates and operating periods for rental.

New! SUPB-ing by moonlight

Come to the Beach and discover stand up paddle surfing before honing your skills on Lac Saint-Joseph. Whether you choose an introductory course or a sunset session, you’ll be able to recharge your battery and discover something marvellous. An experience that’s both original and unique!

Details and reservation (in French only)

The station offers 25.7 km of easy-going hiking trails. You'll make many discoveries in the forest, such as rock shelters, a geological phenomenon that fascinates young and old alike. For an evening escapade, you can take our lighted hiking trail (1 km).

Map of trails (in French only)

Trail running

Why not make Duchesnay your go-to destination the next time you head out for some trail running. Take advantage of groomed trails in the midst of the forest where your safety is guaranteed. You’ll be able to fully enjoy a discipline whose popularity is growing by leaps and bounds!

In need of some expert advice? You can count on the Atout Cohésion team and its experienced coach, Raphaël Perret. They’ve chosen Duchesnay as one of their training sites for the summer and fall season!

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned veteran, the Atout Cohésion team will give you the very best guidance in the practice of this sport, and help you avoid injuries as well. The summer session will begin on June 12, 2017. During the 12-week course program, a number of surprises await you, all designed to help you reach your goals.

Check out the video (in French only)

Check out the Atout Cohésion team’s Facebook page

Kids and adults love Lac Saint-Joseph. The sandy beach is ideal for games and relaxation (the playgrounds are marked off). Private beach, for clients with accommodations only or daily passport.

Periods: 

• June 24 to August 27, 2017
  • Monday to Friday: depending on traffic
  • Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

*Subject to change depending on the weather

The 68-km Jacques-Cartier-Portneuf cycling path passes by the Station. Linked to Corridor des Cheminots, it goes all the way to Québec City. Nearby, Chemin de la liseuse runs alongside Rivière Jacques-Cartier for 13 km.

Bicycle rentals is located at the boat house during summer. Rates and operating periods for rental.

Free bikes for children

Free bike loans for children of 17 years of age and under in a family situation. Limited quantities available on a first come, first served basis.

Have fun with family or friends. During summer, there's no lack of games at Duchesnay. Inside, all year-round, you'll also find: billiards, ping-pong, table soccer and board games. Free access for guests staying at the Station (room or cabin). Equipment loan included.

The Segway XT is a mini all-terrain vehicle on 2 wheels, powered by electric batteries. Its very low-pressure tires are perfectly adapted to forest trails. We offer you this unique experience in the company of a guide. Enjoy a little Segwaying on the trails. See all the details

This tree-top adventure can be found right here at Duchesnay. Five circuits are available, with a total of 85 stations that have progressive levels of difficulty: gangplanks, nets, footbridges, and so on. Thrill-seekers will adore the extreme loop and the mega zipline. That's 1000 feet of adrenaline!

Book

Details, schedule and rates

Guaranteed fun for people of all ages! Find the centre of the wooden labyrinth and the exit, and get hints along the way by answering questions during an educational and humorous rally. It's 275 one-way doors! This 1 ½ h activity is accessible to the mobility-impaired. Package available for school groups. Offered in collaboration with a partner.

For information:
418 875-0770
www.aventureinukshuk.qc.ca
info@aventureinukshuk.qc.ca

Periods:

• May 13 to June 18, 2017: Saturday and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• June 19 to August 27, 2017: every day, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• August 28 to October 15, 2017: Saturday and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Details:

• Rates (plus taxes):
  • Adult: $11.95
  • Child: $9.95
• School groups: May 1 to November 12, 2017

From the top of the observation tower bordering the beaver's natural habitat, you can watch black bears in total safety. They show up here in late afternoon almost daily. Beaver, white-tailed deer and several bird species also frequent this spot. And, who knows, maybe you'll even hear a wolf howling! Activity offered at the end of the day.

This unique activity is the result of a partnership with Aventure Inukshuk. Information: 418 875-0770

Period: Mid-June to mid-October

Rate (plus taxes):

• Adult: $25/pers.
• Child (6 to 12): $12.50/pers.

Bear Safari

Aventure Inukshuk is now offering a brand-new activity: Safari Ours/ Bear Safari. Climb aboard a quad and head off to explore Duchesnay’s forest paths. You’ll visit a magnificent natural environment! And who knows? Perhaps you’ll be lucky enough to spot a black bear from the top of our lookout tower.

Find out more

People of all ages love swimming! They’ll enjoy the indoor heated pool, which is under the constant supervision of a certified lifeguard. In the summer you can also enjoy sunbathing on outdoor lounge chairs just beside the spa! There’s also a sauna  in the hotel next to the exercise room.

Period: year round (hours vary with the season)

Our team of animators offers a variety of initiation and interpretation activities for children and adults. The activities and schedules vary depending on the season and special times of the year (Easter, Christmas, spring break).

All of the guided activities are free for visitors with a green bracelet (packages including hotel accommodations) or a day passport (day visitor). Exception: additional fees apply for the Segway gyropod.

The calendar of guided activities may change without notice.

Activity Calender - October 2017 (in French only)

Located at the hotel, Bistro-bar Le Quatre-Temps overlooks Lac Saint-Joseph. Sample our bistro menu featuring regional produce. Enjoy the country charm of this restaurant and its fireplace. Perfect for romantic encounters, family parties or business suppers. Accessible to everyone who visits the Station. Seating capacity: 125 places.

A glance at the menu

Chef Sébastien Rivard's menu consists of light menus and delectable full-course meals featuring fish, game, cheese and grills. You'll find an excellent selection of wines to accompany your meal on our wine list. By the glass, private imports, good quality-price ratios...Connoisseurs and wine lovers alike will find what they're looking for. 

A Gourmet Promise of Quality

Auberge Duchesnay holds the “Terroir et Saveurs du Québec” certification, in recognition of the superior quality of its restaurant offerings and its commitment to featuring regional and local Québec products.

Details:

• Discover our à la carte and table d'hôte menu (in French only) and our Continental and American breakfast buffet menu (in French only)
• Free parking
• For reservations and information: 418 875-2711 ext. 4194

Periods: Opening hours depend on the period.

• Horaire : September 5 to December 22, 2017 (in French only)

Every Sunday, the restaurant serves the Hiker's Brunch, featuring freshness, quality and variety. A meal that fans of the great outdoors like to combine with one or more of the Station's activities.

• Discover our menu (in French only)
• Every Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
• $24.95 per person (plus tips and taxes)
• $12.48 for 4 to 12 year-olds (plus tips and taxes)
• Free for children under 4

Continental and American breakfast buffet (in French only) also offered on Sundays, from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.

Information and reservation: 418 875-2711, ext. 4194

A snack bar at the Horizon Lodge is open during the ski season. Skiers and snowshoers appreciate this fast and easy formula. More elaborate meals are available at Bistro-bar le Quatre temps in the hotel.

For a large reception or a small business committee meeting, treat your guests to a delicious meal! Chef Sébastien Rivard and his team offer fine meals at competitive prices. Served in the cozy Bistro-bar or in the meeting rooms. Customized menus available.

Let us help you with your plans

On the bistro terrace, savour the meals...and the view! Lac Saint-Joseph, the forest, the sun, the birds-total immersion in nature. The terrace seats 50 people and the bar 35.

Station touristique Duchesnay offers a broad and varied program for school groups. The educational and outdoor activities are for elementary and high school students.  They meet the objectives of Québec's Department of Education. The program is offered year-round to groups of 20 to 200 youngsters.

School activities and pricing

Speak with a representative

Holding a meeting in the midst of nature

Near Québec City, only a few minutes away from the hubbub of urban space, Duchesnay is the perfect place to hold your business meeting. An authentic vacationing centre, it offers bistro cuisine, a range of planned activities, accommodation of superior comfort and obliging service.

Featuring forest and lake, the environment is ideal for group meetings. Duchesnay has more than 11 reception rooms with a capacity to host between 5 and 250 people. Four of them are located at Auberge Duchesnay and the other seven in each of the log pavilions.
Always attentive to your needs, our experienced team is dedicated to helping you make your event an unforgettable one for your guests. We offer customized packages, adapted to your budget. In addition, we provide all the equipment you might require.

Value-added services:

• Free parking
• Free wireless high-speed internet
• A wide range of team-building activities
• On site audio/visual equipment
• A varied choice of break and rest period options to fit your needs
• Cell phone access

Watch the video

Myosotis Room (Auberge)

Its large windows open up a splendid view of Lac St-Joseph. This comfortable space, bathing in natural light, is perfect for a meeting set in nature.

Maïanthème Room (Auberge)

This room with a cathedral ceiling can be divided into two sections. Plan a summer meeting and enjoy its direct access onto a magnificent terrace (possibility of an outdoor bonfire).

Sous-Bois Room (Pavilion)

The luminous and cozy Sous-Bois Room will charm you with its cathedral ceiling, decorative woodwork and exposed beams. It is well suited for meetings of any kind. Its terrace will delight your guests.

Élan and Sylvain Pavilions

For an intimate, retreat-type lakeside meeting, these two pavilions offer a most convenient choice of accommodation for small groups. Set up with fireplaces, spacious sitting rooms, rooms with private bathrooms, kitchens and conference halls, they offer a favourable atmosphere for creating memorable moments with your guests.

Corporative brochure (in French only)

Virtual tours

• Maïanthème room
• Myosotis room

Speak with a representative

Request for proposal

A wide range of group activities are available. Businesses, associations, social clubs: let us know what you need. From 1 ½ h to a whole day, these activities take place outside. Team building and discovery of the senses are on the program. Available year-round during the day and sometimes in the evening. Packages available.

Police Academie (in French only)

Corporate activities - Christmas (in French only)

Speak with a representative

Throw an amazing Christmas party for your team. Outdoor activities, excellent service, fine dining and quality accommodations. Everything you need for an unforgettable moment!

Christmas Package (in French only)

Corporate activities - Christmas (in French only)

Speak with a representative

Request for proposal

Celebrate immersed in nature at an exceptional location

Take advantage of this unforgettable moment by allowing our experienced team to look after every detail along the way!

• Only 30 minutes from Québec City
• For weddings: on-site ceremony on the shore of Lac Saint-Joseph
• Cuisine inspired by regional products 
• Rooms that can accommodate from 25 to 220 people
• Hotel, lodge or cabin accommodations

Photo Gallery

2017-2018 Wedding Brochure

2017-2018 Sunday Wedding Brochure (in French only)

Speak with a representative

Request for proposal