Canada’s largest province enjoys a long history of skiing, with the first ski lifts in Quebec opening as far back as the 1930s. Since then the number of ski areas here has grown to over 70, so to help you pick the perfect Quebec ski destination for your vacation check our top seven resorts!
7. Stoneham
Why Ski Stoneham
With 43 trails it’s far from the largest ski area in Quebec, but Stoneham offers a nice balance of terrain to keep all abilities happy. Freestyle skiers and snowboarders will find plenty to keep them occupied in the three terrain parks dotted across the mountain, plus there’s even an Olympic halfpipe open to anyone talented or crazy enough to try it! Down in the base area you can enjoy a soak in a hot tub or a skate around the ice rink, both provided for free by the resort, and if it’s a party you’re after head to the popular après-ski bar Le Quatre-Foyers.
6. Mont Orford
Why Ski Mont Orford
At 2,790 ft, Mont Orford is the highest lift-accessed summit in the Eastern Townships, and it’s also home to some of the steepest terrain. Luckily it’s not all double black diamonds trails from the top, with the Grande Coulée groomer offering a gentler way down the mountain. But if it’s unadulterated white stuff you crave, the entire Mont Alfred-Desrochers section of the mountain is left untouched so you can ski natural powder without leaving the resort boundaries. The four-star Espace 4 Saisons hotel is the only ski-in/ski-out accommodation available here, but in the nearby town of Magog there are far more options.
5. Ski Bromont
Why Ski Ski Bromont
Just an hour’s drive from Montreal, Ski Bromont is the biggest of all the ski resorts in the Eastern Townships region, with a total of 142 trails creating an impressive 450 ac of skiable terrain. What’s even more impressive is that 102 trails are covered by over 2,500 lights, creating an immense amount of terrain for skiing under the stars. Don’t miss the Nuits Blanches event held on select Saturdays throughout the season, the slopes are open until 2 am and the après-ski party goes on even later! There’s no shortage of ski-in/ski-out condos around the base area, plus more affordable hotels and holiday homes just a short drive away.
4. Mont Sutton
Why Ski Mont Sutton
Mont Sutton began life as a family-run ski area back in the 1960s and has developed into a one-of-a-kind resort. You won’t find an abundance of wide open slopes here, instead the often narrow trails wind through the unspoilt forest and offer hundreds of interconnections with 45% of the terrain covered by glades. If you love skiing trees then Mont Sutton is not to be missed, but the resort’s Zone Famille also provides an excellent beginners area and learners park complete with its own dedicated lift. Between the base area and the nearby village of Sutton you can find everything from traditional inns and family condos to upscale hotels complete with a pool and spa.
3. Le Massif de Charlevoix
Why Ski Le Massif de Charlevoix
Le Massif offers some of the most challenging terrain of any resort in Quebec, with over half of all the marked trails graded as only suitable for advanced skiers. You’ll find more than 100 ac of powder-filled off-piste to explore and guided backcountry tours are available for the adventurous. Once you’ve worked up an appetite you can expect something different from standard ski cafeteria fare at the Summit Chalet with an ever-changing menu full of French-inspired dishes like delicious charcuterie and cheese boards. Modern condos offer river-view lodgings at the base of the resort, while at the summit there are mini-houses and chalets tucked away in the forest.
2. Mont Sainte-Anne
Why Ski Mont Sainte-Anne
Mont-Sainte-Anne has a distinguished skiing pedigree, beginning with hosting the Canadian Downhill Championships in 1947. Over the years the resort has expanded to open up almost 550 ac of skiable terrain and created one of the best rail parks in Quebec. Roughly 50% of the trails here are intermediate-friendly blues, but there are a few double black diamond chutes for advanced skiers too. Beginners can also get a taste for big mountain skiing thanks to the gentle La Familiale green trail running for 3 mi from the summit to base. Two Nordic spas to relax in, all-season paragliding, dog sledding, ice skating and a stunning basilica to visit are just some of the many activities you’ll find nearby. Expect plenty of accommodation options to choose from, including a ski-in/ski-out hotel, cozy alpine chalets, and spacious condos.
1. Mont Tremblant
Why Ski Mont Tremblant
There are plenty of very good reasons why Mont Tremblant keeps being voted the top ski resort on the East Coast of North America. From the colorful alpine architecture in the pedestrianized village to the natural beauty of the Laurentian Mountains, this really is a picture-perfect winter destination. But what about the skiing? Over 100 expertly groomed slopes, three awesome terrain parks, and a professional ski and snowboard school to help you improve your skills. Gourmet restaurants, lively pubs, and fun family activities are all waiting for you, plus being just a 1.5 hour drive from Montreal makes it pretty easy to reach too.