By Evelyn Reid, TripSavvy
There are over 80 Quebec area ski resorts and they come with a variety of runs, special events, and services. Some are ideal for a relaxed Sunday in the mountains. Others are more "party central." And among them are a handful of runs that have what it takes to humble an expert skier. There are even options for Night Skiing Near Montreal.
If you are new to the Quebec ski scene, consider trying out these Quebec ski resorts, all vetted by an experienced skier, and each possessing its own brand of appeal. And all of them, except for Le Massif, are a two-hour or less drive from Montreal.
And for a close-to-complete list of Quebec ski resorts, consult the Quebec Ski Area Association website. Not all ski areas are members, but the vast majority are and the list will help you decide which ski area to try.
01
There are over 80 Quebec area ski resorts and they come with a variety of runs, special events, and services. Some are ideal for a relaxed Sunday in the mountains. Others are more "party central." And among them are a handful of runs that have what it takes to humble an expert skier. There are even options for Night Skiing Near Montreal.
If you are new to the Quebec ski scene, consider trying out these Quebec ski resorts, all vetted by an experienced skier, and each possessing its own brand of appeal. And all of them, except for Le Massif, are a two-hour or less drive from Montreal.
And for a close-to-complete list of Quebec ski resorts, consult the Quebec Ski Area Association website. Not all ski areas are members, but the vast majority are and the list will help you decide which ski area to try.
01
Mont Tremblant
They say come for the slopes but stay for the scene. This is Quebec's poster child ski area if there ever was one. Mont Tremblant has been voted the top ski resort in Eastern North America by Ski Magazine many years running.
The place to ski and be seen, the party vibe is undeniable with après-ski options galore. There's also quite the family-friendly vibe in the area although everything costs more at Tremblant and long, lines are nearly guaranteed.
As for the mountain itself, it might not be the highest one in the region but slope inclines reach as much as 42 degrees. With that considered, it's odd that Tremblant runs seem more ideal for beginners and intermediates than experienced thrill-seekers. Overall, Mont Tremblant is a great spot for tourists and those wanting a vibrant snow scene.
02
Mont Blanc
Not to be confused with the tallest peak in the Alps that goes by the same name, Quebec's Mont Blanc is the second highest mountain in the Laurentians and is considerably cheaper per day than its taller, trendy neighbor, Tremblant, just 10 kilometers away.
Unlike Tremblant, Mont Blanc has double diamond runs and a preponderance of challenging trails in spite of its smaller scale. So experienced skiers looking for a challenge are advised to at least give Mont Blanc a try. It's not the top resort choice for beginners though, with only six novice slopes.
03
Le Massif
Le Massif is for serious skiers. For a challenge, try Le Massif's La Charlevoix trail, a triple diamond feat and the only elite athlete training run in Canada east of the Rockies, ideal for Super G practice. Apparently, the vertical drop coupled with the view gives the illusion of skiing off into the sea. For obvious reasons, Le Massif is picky about who they let on this run so you'll have to get a green light from staff.
A strong show of diamonds and double diamonds across the resort, there are also several intermediate trails and eight novice runs. Less than two hours from Quebec City, Le Massif is about a five-hour drive from Montreal but if you ask city-dwelling regulars, this is one hill worth every crack-of-dawn departure. Also, lift prices are on the high side, close to Tremblant's rates. But the trails and the view are spectacular and well worth it.
04
Mont Saint-Sauveur
Mont Saint-Sauveur is a popular choice for city-dwellers as it is less than an hour from Montreal.
It's got that "see and be seen" vibe with locals converging in nearby condos. If they aren't soaking it up the world of après-ski and fine dining, there's even a Gibbys steakhouse in the area. Mont Saint-Sauveur is known for nightlife.
As far as skiing, it's a great hill for beginners, families, (and night skiers), and the runs are fairly straightforward. The few diamond runs feel more intermediate.
05
Mont Orford
A two-hour drive from Montreal is Mont Orford. It's the perfect resort for a group composed of beginners, advanced types and bored experts.
Their trails are long and challenging enough to keep different experience levels on their toes, picturesque and meandering one moment, steep and moguled the next. Meanwhile, novices adore Mont Orford's 4-kilometer run and experts can join them while opting for some crazy double diamond shortcuts along the way. Everybody wins at this resort.
As for intermediate trails, they offer a solid challenge. Daredevils take note. Rocks, cliffs, narrow glades, double fall lines—you must try Orford's triple diamond slopes. They've been downgraded to doubles over the last decade or so, notably the Boogie, Labrècque, Passe de l'Ours, and Porc Épic trails. But still, there are heart-stopping runs to be had if you dare.
