Canada’s east may not be comparable to the mountains of the west, but is nonetheless a great ski holiday destination! Spend less time driving and explore the variety of terrain and charming winter villages while remaining close to the city. Our local experts have narrowed down the five best ski resorts close to Toronto!
5. Horseshoe Resort
Distance from Toronto - 83 mi (1.5 hour drive)
Why Ski Horseshoe Resort
Horseshoe Resort is the ultimate ski resort for intermediate and experienced skiers, offering over 20 blue and black runs! The designated beginner area and excellent ski school program also caters to new skiers. Although a popular resort, Horseshoe’s efficient chairlift system allows you to maximise your time on the slopes. There are over 18 mi of groomed cross country ski trails and an extensive list of exciting snow activities including tubing, fat biking and snowmobiling. Onsite lodging and a variety of dining options are also available. And if Horseshoe Resort isn’t selling itself already, they also offer night skiing and consistent snow thanks to its upgraded snowmaking facilities.
4. Glen Eden
Distance from Toronto - 38 mi (45 minute drive)
Why Ski Glen Eden
One of the closest ski resorts to Toronto (just 45 minutes), Glen Eden offers some of the cheapest lift tickets in the area! The resort’s designated beginner area and mostly intermediate trails make it the perfect choice of resort for newer skiers. Nonetheless, there are multiple steeper runs amongst the dozen trails at Glen Eden to cater for more experienced skiers and riders. Despite snow conditions varying due to the lack of snowmaking and low altitude location, the resort offers everything from night skiing, a terrain park, and dining options at the base.
3. Hockley Valley
Distance from Toronto - 55 mi (1 hour drive)
Why Ski Hockley Valley
A smaller resort just an hour from Toronto, Hockley Valley’s convenient location is hard to beat! In addition to its dedicated beginner area, the resort has a longer beginner run, giving new skiers and snowboarders a chance to confidently use the chairlift. Although experienced skiers may not be challenged by the terrain, Hockley Valley is the perfect family-friendly resort, offering kids ski and snowboard camps, on-site lodging and dining options. There is even a spa to unwind after a long day on the slopes.
2. Mount St Louis
Distance from Toronto - 87 mi (1.5 hour drive)
Why Ski Mount St Louis
Consistent snow conditions are almost guaranteed at Mount Saint Louis thanks to its location in Ontario’s snow belt and having Canada’s most advanced snowmaking system. Just a 90 minute drive from Toronto, there are 35 runs across the Mount Saint Louis and Moonstone slopes, with most trails also open for night skiing. This resort is perfect for new and intermediate skiers thanks to the dedicated beginners area and predominantly blue runs. Park rats will also enjoy the four terrain parks here, catering to four levels of progression! Despite the base area being quite limited, visitors can dine at one of the many restaurants or catch an ice hockey game in the nearby town of Barrie.
1. Blue Mountain Canada
Distance from Toronto - 106 mi (2 hour drive)
Why Ski Blue Mountain Canada
Offering a wide range of terrain, endless accommodation options and plenty of kid-friendly activities, Blue Mountain is the ultimate resort for families. Although a highly popular resort, the beginner, intermediate and advanced areas that are spread across the mountain provide a seamless holiday experience. There are even three terrain parks with beginner rails and a super-pipe! Visitors are certainly not limited for choice when it comes to dining options, with over 50 bars, restaurants and shops creating a lively après scene. Highlight activities including illumination trails and sleigh rides nearby are not to be missed when you’re done shredding the slopes for the day. Kids will especially love the mountain coaster, tubing and playing at the all year round aquatic centre.