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Skiing in the Laurentians: Practical Guide

Quebec is known for its winter activities, the most popular of which Iโ€™m pretty sure is skiing. Whether you like downhill or cross-country, La Belle Province has multiple options. To narrow your search, we went with the area that is most densely populated with slopes, so here’s our practical guide to skiing in the Laurentians.

Here, you will find all types of skiing spread out over 10+ resorts, offering a variety of experiences to skiers of any level. To help you choose quickly and efficiently, weโ€™ve selected the top 5 best ski conditions in the Laurentians. These hills will provide everything youโ€™re looking for at fair market value. 

Top 5 Ski Resorts in the Laurentians

There are 12 ski hills in the Laurentians in total, but if itโ€™s your first time in the area, then I recommend choosing one of these five. 

Skiers Taking Pictures - in Front of the Ski Resort - Sommet Saint-Sauveur
Photo: Sommet Saint-Sauveur

Sommet Saint-Sauveur, Versant Avila*

The ski experience at Sommet Saint-Sauveur, Versant Avila is best described as lively and energetic. The resort offers a variety of runs for skiers of all levels, from beginner to expert. The mountain is well-groomed and maintained, making it a smooth and enjoyable ride down. 

The atmosphere here is welcoming and upbeat, with plenty of attractions and activities for non-skiers as well. Plus, the views from the top of the mountain are breathtaking.

Mont Avalanche* 

The ski experience at Mont Avalanche is much more laid-back and relaxed than Sommet Saint-Sauveur-Versant Avila. The hill offers a peaceful and serene setting, perfect for those seeking a quiet and scenic ski experience. 

The runs are also less crowded, making it an excellent choice for skiers who want to avoid the hustle and bustle of busier resorts. However, it still offers various runs for all levels and has ideal snow conditions.

Ski Chantecler*

Ski Chantecler is a family-friendly ski resort in the Laurentian Mountains. The ski experience here is all about fun and creating memories with loved ones. The runs are suitable for all ages and levels, making it a perfect destination for families with young children. 
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with plenty of activities for non-skiers as well, such as tubing and snowshoeing. Ski Chantecler also has a cozy lodge where visitors can warm up and enjoy a hot chocolate break.

Skiers at a Ski Resort - in the Laurentians - Les Anderson - From Unsplash
Photo credit: Les Anderson from Unsplash

Ski Mont Blanc*

Ski Mont Blanc is a unique ski resort that caters to different skiing styles. If you’re a thrill seeker, you can try out the mogul runs or hit the terrain park for some jumps and tricks. Or, if you prefer a more leisurely ski experience, there are plenty of scenic and gentle runs to choose from. 

Another highlight of this resort is the stunning views of the mountains and lakes in the surrounding area. It’s a perfect destination for skiers who want a bit of everything.

Mont Tremblant*

Mont Tremblant is one of the most famous ski resorts in Canada. The ski experience here is exceptional, with over 100 trails and the highest peak in the Laurentian Mountains. The mountain is known for its challenging runs and diverse terrain, making it a favourite among advanced skiers. 

However, there are also plenty of runs for beginners and intermediate skiers to enjoy. The village at the base of the mountain is also a highlight, with its charming โ€œEuropean-styleโ€ architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

*All the above with a star offer equipment rental. Find out more on that topic here: Mont Tremblant Ski Rentals.

ยฉTremblant - People Skiing - in the Mountains
Photo: Tremblant

Cross Country and Downhill Guide

Downhill is easy to find, and by far the most popular, but many of the best places to go skiing in the Laurentians also offer cross-country. 

Cross-country skiing in the Laurentians is like gliding through a winter wonderland with breathtaking views all around. The crisp, clean air and peaceful surroundings make it the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. 

There are plenty of cozy lodges and quaint villages to stop and warm up with a hot chocolate or bowl of hearty soup. One popular spot is Mont-Tremblant, with over 80 miles of trails and stunning views of the Laurentian mountains. Another must-try is the famous Parc National du Mont-Tremblant, where you can ski through old-growth forests and along frozen lakes.

ยฉTourisme Laurentides - Cross- Country Skiing
Photo: Tourisme Laurentides

Best Ski Packages in Quebec

While there are plenty of other ski resorts in Quebec, the Laurentians offer more versatility and the best pricing. Each resort offers its own packaging deal to suit single skiers, couples, and those with families. 

How to Buy Tickets

Most tickets can be purchased online and offer different pricing for kids. You can also purchase the season pass to save money if you plan on visiting at least 15 times. Check out this site for a breakdown of the pricing at most Laurentians skiing locations. 

Friends Snowboarding -in ยฉSommet Saint-Sauveur
Photo: Sommet Saint-Sauveur

Summary โ€” Best Spots to Ski the Laurentians

This area of the world has become a mecca for ski lovers not only for its stunning beauty but also for its sheer abundance. Due to this overwhelming selection, prices have remained affordable at most places, which makes it great for all types of skiers. 

Here are some other articles about the Laurentians that may interest you.

What to Do in the Laurentians and How to Organize Your Trip

Looking for things to do in the Laurentians during your visit? Here are some must-try activities:

Preparing For Your Trip

When I look for things to do in my destination, I always have a look at Viator, GetYourGuide, Manawa, Civitatis and sometimes even Expedia.

It’s first off a great way to find out what there is to do, but always a quick and easy method to book cheaply and efficiently with these renowned platforms.

Need a place to sleep? I find most of my accommodations on Booking.com but I also use Hotels.com for their rewards program (11th free night) as well as Expedia. When booking smaller places in Quebec, you might not find them here and need to contact them directly.

Looking for a cheap flight to the Laurentians through Montreal? Have a look on Cheapoair or Skyscanner I use regularly.

Once you’re there, rent a car to roam free with AutoEurope or RentalCars or hop on a bus around Montreal, Quebec and surrounding cities with Busbud.

Are you on Pinterest? Pin these now to keep this article for later!

Laurentians / Quebec Destinations / Trip Planner / What to See and Do / When to Go / Winter Holidays
About Author

Passionate about travel and food, Jennifer Dorรฉ Dallas is a freelance travel writer, author and creator since 2010. On top of this amazing Chasing Poutine blog, she also founded Moi, mes souliers in 2010 and she is the author/co-author of around two dozen Lonely Planet, Ulysse and Parfum d'encre travel guidebooks, in addition to having contributed to other books and hundreds of tourism and Web platforms, magazines, DMOs and Websites over the years. As a lecturer in Web writing and SEO for a Quebec college and consultant for various companies and DMOs, she loves combining technological advances with the classic beauty of words, and is a member of TMAC, SATW, NATJA and IFTWTA!

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