The birthplace of downhill skiing in North America, the Laurentians are the perfect setting for this popular winter sport. It’s no coincidence that there’s so much character to be found at all ski resorts, since they represent an integral part of the region’s history. There’s such a vast array of options that beginners and seasoned skiers alike are sure to find joy. In total, 12 ski resorts are part and parcel of the Laurentians. There’s really something for all tastes and levels. The runs are impressively varied, sometimes even within the same resort.
Skiing is fun for the whole family!
Have your little ones just stepped into ski boots for the first time? Don’t panic! Ski resorts in the Laurentians are designed to make learning to ski safe and fun. This year, Sommet Olympia in Piedmont opened its new Zone Intro-Plus, where the terrain and a 310-foot magic carpet for its Learning Trail provide the perfect learning environment. Vallée Bleue – Station familiale in Val-David is all about “learning while having fun”. By taking a different approach to teaching skiing, families can take lessons together, and children can get the hang of downhill sports through easy runs and themed glades. Don’t hesitate to initiate your young ones to this incredible winter sport!
Extend the day with night skiing!
Make the most of a ski outing at dusk to discover the region’s snowy mountains under a different light. Mont Habitant in Saint-Sauveur has all the requirements for an exceptional experience on the slopes. Its 11 lit runs of varying difficulty are sure to make your evening a memorable one! Located in Sainte-Adèle, Ski Chantecler features 8 lit runs. If you love winter, no matter your skill level, you’re sure to have a great time! Check out Sommet Morin Heights, another ski resort in the heart of the Laurentians, to recharge in nature with 15 lit runs in a friendly environment. With these suggestions, all that’s left is for you to don your warmest gear to play under the stars!
To complement your downhill outings
Why limit yourself to skiing? While you’re enjoying the runs at Sommet Saint-Sauveur, keep the fun going at the Parc F.U.N. by zig-zagging through the snowy forest aboard the Viking, a one-of-a-kind alpine rollercoaster in Quebec. To extend your downhill time, opt for tubing at Versant Avila, which is ready for you with its 21 snowy runs and three rafting runs. Further north, Mont Tremblant also has great activities to complement your next ski outing. There’s fun to be found at Casino de Mont-Tremblant’s one-of-a-kind après-ski, featuring gastronomy, games, and exciting programming. Looking to keep the outdoor fun going? Swap your skis for skates and head to the outdoor rink at Chapelle Saint-Bernard. It’s open daily until 10 p.m., so you can be outside all evening!
Mountains for experts!
Looking to put your skiing skills to the test? Head towards the Laurentian mountains to test your limits on a variety of runs! Located in the heart of the region, Sommet Gabriel in Sainte-Adèle has four difficult runs and six expert runs where you can have fun while practicing your favourite sport. The moguls are also worth a try! Further north, Mont Blanc mostly features difficult, very difficult, and extreme runs in order to provide a challenge across three summits. It’s the second-highest summit of the Laurentians’ 12 ski resorts. Showcase your talent on groomed runs, over moguls or through glades for adrenaline-packed skiing.
A different kind of skiing
Looking for a new challenge to spice up your ski outings? Why not try alpine hiking? Mont Avalanche in Saint-Adolphe-d’Howard has beautiful forest trails designed for this sport. If you’re a beginner, you can also take an introductory lesson at the sliding school. Whether you’re starting with a lesson or heading straight out for adventure, equipment rentals are available. At Centre de ski Belle Neige in Val-Morin, step into your skis and skins and climb the mountain using the forest trail. Reach the top in under an hour and head back down through one of 20 groomed trails or in the mountain’s “backcountry” sector. Daily rentals and introductory sessions available! For more suggestions, contact the region’s 12 ski resorts.
A gentle après-ski
You’ve finished your last run, and now you’re looking for somewhere to keep the fun going. For a bite to eat, head to T-Bar 70! Located directly at the foot of Sommet Saint-Sauveur, you’re invited to close out your evening with an aperitif in a rustic-chic ambiance. Looking for something fun to wrap up your downhill adventure? La Descente, the bar at Centre de ski Belle Neige in Val-Morin, is hosting Ski que c’est drôle evenings this coming January 21, February 11, and March 18. For Tremblant skiers who need a little downtime, Restaurant La Quintessence invites you to treat yourself to its special après-ski menu. Enjoy the wine bar and winter patio with a fireplace to warm up. Located at the foot of Nansen Bas, Fairmont Tremblant’s Terrasse Après-Ski provides a friendly and lively ambiance every Saturday and Sunday afternoon.
Festivities for skiers and snowboarders
Experience unforgettable moments at the many events the region has to offer. This coming February 11, take part in the Les beaux 4h Fondation Martin-Matte ski marathon, a fundraiser at Sommet Saint-Sauveur, versant Avila. Form a team of 4 skiers or snowboarders aged at least 12 and sign up now. On the main summit at Sommet Saint-Sauveur, come and let loose in the evenings on the ski runs or dancefloor until March 4, with DJs at the Sommet Express chairlift and musicians at T-Bar 70. For more information about programming, please see the event page. On January 14 and February 11, during Les journées Super Démo at Tremblant Resort, come and meet some of the biggest names in skiing and snowboarding and try out new equipment before it hits the stores. On March 17 and 18, head to the Festival Rando Alpine Tremblant to make the most of outdoor activities such as alpine hiking in the forest, heading up Mont Tremblant at night with fondue dinner, winter mountain biking outings, and much more! Fill up your weekend with festivities throughout the region.
For all tourism-related questions: info-tourisme@laurentides.com or call: 450-224-7007 | 1-800-561-6673.