When planning a winter trip to Quebec City, you likely have your sights set on the Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide. This toboggan chute is so iconic that it may even be the reason why you planned a visit to Quebec City.
Riding down the Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide, reaching speeds of up to 70 km/h and taking in the stunning view of Le Château Frontenac, is one of the highlights of visiting Quebec City in winter.
I can’t even adequately describe just how exhilarating this activity is. The toboggan slide might seem daunting, or like something meant just for kids, but don’t be fooled. Riding the toboggan in Quebec City is fast, thrilling, and an absolute must-do during a winter visit.
The toboggan slide at Dufferin Terrace first opened in 1884 and has been thrilling visitors for well over a century. Also known as the Au 1884 Toboggan Slide, it’s one of the oldest winter attractions in Quebec City…and still one of the most exhilarating!
Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission when you purchase a product or book a stay through these links at no extra cost to you.
Where Is the Quebec City Toboggan Slide Located
The Quebec City toboggan slide is located at Dufferin Terrace, a scenic boardwalk in Old Quebec.
Dufferin Terrace is located directly beside the Château Frontenac, providing a stunning backdrop for this thrilling winter activity. As you ride down the slide, you’ll have sweeping views over the St. Lawrence River, with the iconic château towering above you.
Because of its prime location, riding the Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide pairs perfectly with many other things to do in Quebec City in winter. I found myself gravitating back to Dufferin Terrace throughout my trip, both to ride the toboggan myself and to watch others fly down the slide.
How Much Does the Quebec City Toboggan Cost to Ride
One of the best things about the Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide is that it’s an affordable winter activity in Quebec City.
A single ride on the toboggan slide costs $5 CAD, or you can purchase four rides for $18 CAD, making it an even better value if you plan to ride more than once.
Tickets are sold on-site, at the Princess Louise Kiosk, at the base of the slide, and are purchased per ride, so you can decide whether you want to try it just once or head back up for another adrenaline-filled run. If you’ll be in Quebec City for a few days, I recommend purchasing the four-ride option and spreading your rides out across your trip.
You can also purchase tickets online. While there is a small online processing fee, this can be worth it during busy winter weekends or peak travel times when lines at the ticket window are long.
Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide Hours + Season
The Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide operates seasonally during the winter months. For the 2025-2026 winter season, the slide is scheduled to be open from December 5, 2025, through March 22, 2026, weather permitting.
Regular Operating Hours
- Sunday to Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Thursday to Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Winter Carnival Hours
During the Quebec Winter Carnival, the toboggan slide typically operates with extended hours:
- Daily: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
What It’s Like to Ride the Quebec City Toboggan Slide
Let me walk you through the experience of riding the Quebec City toboggan slide, because it’s equal parts exciting, slightly awkward, and completely unforgettable.
After purchasing your tickets at the kiosk, you’ll exchange one ticket for a wooden toboggan at the end of the slide. From there, you’ll pull your toboggan along the snow-covered Dufferin Terrace and up toward the top of the chute.
The wooden toboggan doesn’t necessarily glide smoothly, making it a bit awkward to maneuver across uneven snow and up the chute. I found myself laughing at my slight struggle the whole way up. That said, the walk is short and manageable, and it builds anticipation for what’s ahead.
Once you reach the top, you’ll place your toboggan in the chute and wait for instructions from the attendants. If you’re traveling in a group, riders sit one behind another. Or if you’re solo, you will have the toboggan to yourself. The staff ensures everyone is securely in place and briefed before you’re released.
Then you’re off!
The toboggan picks up speed instantly, racing down the icy track as the cold air rushes past your face. It is exhilarating! The ride is rather quick, and soon enough you’ll be slowing to a stop at the bottom of the slide, breathlessly laughing about how fast it felt.
What makes the experience even more memorable is the setting. As you fly down the slide, you’ll catch glimpses of the St. Lawrence River below and Château Frontenac towering above.
Is the Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide Safe
The Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide is generally considered a safe winter activity in Quebec City. While the toboggan reaches high speeds, the sled remains securely within its designated lane throughout the ride.
Trained attendants operate the slide and control each run, making sure riders are properly seated and positioned before releasing the toboggan. The chute is designed to guide the sled smoothly downhill, allowing riders to enjoy the thrill without needing to steer or brake.
To ensure a safe experience, follow all instructions provided by the staff at the top of the slide.
While the speed can feel intense, the ride is short and controlled, making it more exhilarating than dangerous.
Who Can Ride the Toboggan Slide
One of the best parts about the Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide is that it’s designed for a wide range of visitors, making it a fun winter activity for families, groups, couples, and solo travelers alike.
There is no strict age limit for riding the toboggan, and the slide attracts both younger riders and adults of all ages. Children are welcome to ride, though younger children are required to be accompanied by an older child or adult to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
Each wooden toboggan can hold up to four people, making this a great group activity if you’re traveling with friends or family. If you’re visiting Quebec City on your own, or you’re the only one in your group who wants to ride, you can also ride solo.
Where to Stay Near the Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide
If you want to stay within walking distance of the toboggan slide, Old Quebec is the best area to base yourself in winter. These spots put you steps from Dufferin Terrace and other iconic sights:
- Château Frontenac: Stay right beside the toboggan slide for unbeatable winter views.
- Hotel Manoir Victoria: A comfortable, well-located option in Old Quebec.
Is the Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide Worth It
The Dufferin Terrace Toboggan Slide is one of the best winter activities in Quebec City. It is a thrilling, quintessential winter activity that will leave a lasting impression.
Even if you’ve ridden a toboggan chute before, the Quebec City toboggan is a completely unique experience. The combination of speed, historic surroundings, and incredible views of Château Frontenac and the St. Lawrence River makes this ride unlike anything else.
Riding the toboggan will likely be one of the most memorable moments of your Quebec City winter trip.
For more travel inspiration, check out these posts:
❄️ Perfect Winter Getaway in the Finger Lakes: Ithaca and Cortland
🧊 Spectacular Ice Volcano in Letchworth State Park
🌊 Taughannock Falls State Park Guide: Gorge Trail + Scenic Overlook
❤️ The 15 Best Waterfalls in the Finger Lakes
For more Canada travel, check out my New York section!
Save This Post For Later On Pinterest