Quebec Forest: Goat Hiking, Beaver Dam & Picnic Lunch

Summary

Hiking with goats in Quebec woods plus a lakeside beaver dam and rustic picnic

You’ll follow friendly goats through quiet Quebec forests with a local guide who shares animal stories and tracking tips. Pause at a real beaver dam by the lake before enjoying homemade cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruit, baguette, and beer for lunch outdoors. Expect laughter (especially when goats get curious), good food, and moments of calm you might not expect.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect from “goat hiking” near Quebec — turns out, the goats set the pace. They’re not in a rush, so neither were we. Our guide, Marc, introduced us to each goat by name (I remember Biscotte because she kept nudging my backpack). The air smelled like pine needles and something earthy I couldn’t place. It was quiet except for the soft clop of hooves and Marc’s stories about the forest — he pointed out some tracks in the mud, said they were from a fox, but honestly I wouldn’t have noticed them on my own.

The main keyword here is goat hiking Quebec, but what sticks with me is how weirdly soothing it felt to walk behind these animals, watching their tails wag as they picked their way along the trail. We stopped at this huge beaver dam on the lake — bigger than I’d pictured. The water was still and brownish, and you could see where branches had been chewed through. Marc explained how long it took the beavers to build it (years, apparently), while his sheepdog lay down right at our feet and sighed loudly, like he’d heard it all before.

Lunch was just spread out on a blanket under some birches: cured meats, homemade cheese that tasted tangy and fresh, baguette that was still warm somehow (no idea how they managed that), fruits. There were local beers too — cold enough to make my hand ache for a second. One of the goats tried to steal an apple from my plate; Marc just laughed and handed her another slice instead. I still think about that view over the lake while we ate — not dramatic or anything, just peaceful in a way you don’t get in cities. If you’re looking for something slow and kind of grounding near Quebec City… well, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hiking with goats and beaver dam visit

• Meet professional woodsman guide
• Learn about packing goats
• Hike in Quebec backcountry
• Discover wildlife and landscapes
• Visit impressive beaver dam
• Learn about animal tracking
• Enjoy picnic in the woods
• Interact with friendly goats

Top questions

Is goat hiking suitable for kids?

Yes, all fitness levels are welcome and small children can use strollers.

What food is included during the picnic?

Cured meats, homemade cheeses, fresh fruits and vegetables, baguette and beers are served for lunch.

How long is the hike with goats?

The exact duration isn’t specified but it’s paced gently with stops for wildlife viewing and lunch.

Are there guides on this goat hiking tour?

Yes, you’ll be led by a professional woodsman who knows the area well.

Will we see wildlife besides goats?

You’ll visit an active beaver dam and learn about animal tracking; wildlife sightings vary by day.

Is transportation included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned but public transportation options are nearby.

Can I bring my service animal?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes guided goat hiking through Quebec’s forest trails with a professional woodsman; visits to an impressive lakeside beaver dam; animal tracking insights; plus a generous picnic lunch of homemade cheese, cured meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, warm baguette and local beers enjoyed outdoors before heading back together.