The 9 Most Exhilarating Places to Go Skiing Near Ottawa
During the winter season, we Ottawans are able to enjoy a large plethora of activities that can make things even more fun. We have access to snowmobiling, snowboarding, ice skating, snowshoeing, and more.
But one highlight is definitely skiing, and there’s nothing quite like gliding down the slope of a well-groomed bed of snow to get your heart racing and adrenaline pumping.
I truly enjoy Ottawa’s close proximity to these places, and it never ceases to be a fun activity with both friends and family. If you want to plan a trip, make sure to check out the locations I’ve listed below.
Camp Fortune
Website: https://campfortune.com/
Address: 300 Chem. Dunlop, Chelsea, QC J9B 2N3, Canada
Contact number: 819-827-1717
Operating hours:
- Monday-Friday 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Saturday-Sunday: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Camp Fortune sets itself apart with its diverse terrain, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, there’s something here to challenge and delight every snow enthusiast.
The real standout, though, is the stunning scenery. With the majestic Gatineau Hills as
your backdrop, you’ll be treated to some of the most picturesque views in the region.
For those seeking an added thrill, Camp Fortune offers the unique experience of night skiing. The well-lit slopes add a whole new dimension to your sliding adventure, making it perfect for those who can’t get enough of the snow, even after the sun goes down.
Now when it comes to snow, the resort takes quality seriously, investing in state-of-the-art snowmaking and grooming equipment to ensure excellent conditions throughout the season.
You can count on an absolutely enjoyable experience thanks to the well-maintained ski path.
Families will find Camp Fortune to be a welcoming haven. With dedicated learning areas for kids, ski schools, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a great place for all generations to have a good time together.
After a thrilling day on the slopes, you can unwind in the cozy lodge, where delicious food and beverages await. Whether you’re celebrating your successful runs or just looking to relax, you’ll find plenty of options for post-ski enjoyment.
And if you’re looking for a change of pace, Camp Fortune also offers cross-country trails, providing a more serene way to enjoy the winter wonderland.
Calabogie Peaks Resort
Website: https://www.calabogie.com/
Address: 30 Barrett Chute Rd, Calabogie, ON K0J 1H0, Canada
Contact number: 613-752-2720
Operating hours: Monday-Sunday: 9:00 AM-4:00 PM
Calabogie Peaks Resort boasts a variety of ski and snowboard slopes suitable for all skill levels. However, what really draws people to Calabogie is the backdrop of the Ottawa Valley and the Madawaska Highlands.
As you ski, you will be able to see sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape, and it creates a unique atmosphere that elevates your experience on the slopes.
To top it all off, the paths are well maintained by the staff to ensure that you get the best experience possible. You can count on well-maintained slopes and dependable snow coverage.
If you want to experience more of the snow, you’re in for a treat. Calabogie Peaks offers night skiing, allowing you to enjoy the trails under the stars.
To achieve this, the resort invests in state-of-the-art snowmaking equipment and grooming techniques to ensure that the slopes are in top-notch condition throughout the ski season.
The resort also provides opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, adding a different dimension to your winter experience.
Now if you’re looking for something more exciting, you’ll be pleased to know that the resort frequently hosts special events, competitions, and themed nights. It adds a social and fun element to your ski trips, creating lasting memories.
Mont Cascades
Website: https://montcascades.ca/ski/
Address: 448 Chem. du Mont-des-Cascades, Cantley, QC J8V 3B2, Canada
Contact number: +1 819-827-0301
Operating hours: Monday-Sunday: 9:00 AM-4:00 PM
As with any good ski resort, Mont Cascades features diverse terrain that is great for skiers of all skill levels. It’s a versatile and accommodating place to perfect your skills or challenge yourself on more advanced trails.
Since the resort is nestled in the Gatineau Hills, you will be able to take in breathtaking scenery of snow-covered trees that will leave you breathless. The views here are truly something special, adding an extra layer of magic to your skiing experience.
Mont Cascades also boasts an exciting snow tubing park to offer a different kind of winter thrill. It’s a perfect break from traditional skiing or snowboarding, offering fun for everyone as you zoom down tubing lanes without needing any prior experience.
Now if you want to improve your skills, the resort’s snow school and lessons are available for all ages and experience levels. Experienced instructors are on hand to help you hone your skiing or snowboarding techniques.
Mont Cascades also offers a serene alternative to downhill action with its snowshoeing trails, which wind through picturesque wooded areas. It’s an opportunity to explore the stunning natural surroundings at a much leisurely pace.
Frequent visitors can also avail of season passes and various discounts that the resort offers. This makes Mont Cascades an even more attractive destination if you are planning multiple trips to the slopes.
Cross-country skiing enthusiasts will find their fix here as well, with dedicated trails that add another dimension to the winter experience.
For a complete getaway experience, Mont Cascades provides on-site accommodations, allowing you to extend your stay and fully immerse yourself in the skiing lifestyle.
Mont-Tremblant Resort
Website: https://www.tremblant.ca/
Address: Mont-Tremblant, Quebec, Canada
Contact number: +1 819-681-3000
Operating hours:
- Welcome Centre – Monday-Sunday: 9:30 AM-5:00 PM
- Guest Services Desks – Monday-Sunday: 9:00 AM-4:00 PM
- Central Reservations – Monday-Sunday: 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Besides Mont-Tremblant’s amazing ski trails, one highlight of this resort is its breathtaking European-inspired pedestrian village. This makes it the perfect location for people who desire a more vintage aesthetic for their ski trip.
Mont-Tremblant has over 660 acres of skiable topography, so you’ll never be bored of exploring the slopes.
As for snowboarders and freestyle skiers, they will love the location’s outstanding terrain parks and half-pipes, which provide plenty of opportunities to show off their tricks and jumps.
Also, did you know that the resort has one of the longest gondolas in Eastern North America? If you ride it, it provides breathtaking vistas as you ascend the mountain.
If you can’t get enough of the paths during the day, Mont-Tremblant has night skiing available on some days. The well-lit slopes offer an enchanting atmosphere for midnight skiing activities.
When it comes to lodging, the resort offers a wide range of possibilities. You can find luxurious hotels, comfortable chalets, and budget-friendly options that appeal to all sorts of interests and budgets.
The resort often includes an ice skating rink in the midst of the village, allowing guests to enjoy a gorgeous and enjoyable pastime aside from skiing.
Mont Ste Marie
Address: 76 Chem. de la Montagne, Lac-Sainte-Marie, QC J0X 1Z0, Canada
Contact number: +1 819-467-5200
Website:
Operating hours: Varies based on the resort’s conditions page.
What makes Mont Ste. Marie particularly charming in that it’s essentially the lone significant mountain in the Ottawa-Gatineau region.
This exclusivity means you get to relish a genuine summit experience without the crowds and long lift lines that are often associated with more popular destinations.
Snow quality is a top priority here. Mont Ste. Marie invests in modern snowmaking equipment and grooming techniques, ensuring well-maintained, powdery slopes, even when snowfall is less than ideal.
While Mont Ste. Marie doesn’t offer night skiing, the absence of light pollution creates a mesmerizing starry backdrop for your evening activities.
The resort’s staff is renowned for its approachable and helpful demeanor, adding to the overall warmth of your experience.
Though Mont Ste. Marie doesn’t have on-site accommodations, it has partnerships with nearby hotels and chalets, making it convenient for those looking to extend their stay.
Inns like Auberge des deux rives, Château Logue, and Resort Lac Ste-Marie offer you pretty much everything you could want for a place to call it a day.
For something different, Mont Ste. Marie also offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails, allowing you to explore the winter wonderland at a more relaxed pace.
While it may lack a bustling apres-ski scene, the resort’s serene surroundings provide an opportunity for a peaceful and tranquil post-ski experience in the nearby areas.
To add to that, the resort hosts various ski clubs and races, contributing a social and competitive element to the community and making it a hub for skiing enthusiasts to connect and partake in events.
Gatineau Park
Address: 33 Chem. Scott, Chelsea, QC J9B 1R5, Canada
Contact number: 819-827-2020
Gatineau Park is practically Ottawa’s backyard, just a short drive away. It’s not only accessible but also an escape from the urban hustle, making it an excellent option for quick skiing getaways.
The park’s pristine wilderness, with rolling hills and dense forests, creates a unique backdrop that no other ski resort can offer. This will make you feel even more connected to nature.
What’s more, the location boasts an extensive network of cross-country ski trails, letting you choose your preferred trail of choice.
Gatineau Park is dotted with stunning lookout points, so skiing here means you’ll have the chance to stop and take in the awe-inspiring views of the Ottawa Valley and the Gatineau Hills.
The park accommodates both classic and skate skiing, ensuring a fulfilling experience for skiers with different preferences and techniques.
This makes it the perfect trail if you want to see the majesty of the Gatineau Hills and Ottawa Valley firsthand while it’s blanketed in a bed of snow.
While Gatineau Park doesn’t have the bustling apres-ski scene of a resort, it’s a short drive back to Ottawa, where you can explore a wide range of dining and entertainment options after you’ve had your fill of skiing.
If you want to try something else besides skiing, you can also go snowshoeing on Gatineau Park’s many trails.
Centre Vorlage
Address: 65 Chemin Burnside, Wakefield, QC, J0X3G0
Contact number: 819-459-2301
Website: https://centrevorlage.ca/en/winter/
Operating hours:
- Thursday-Friday, Sunday: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM–6:30 PM
Centre Vorlage’s topography is a playground for snow enthusiasts, featuring a total of 18 ski runs, with the added bonus of 13 of them being bathed in the warm glow of night skiing.
For those who crave the exhilaration of freestyle skiing or snowboarding, Centre Vorlage also offers a dedicated terrain park, providing the perfect canvas to practice tricks, jumps, and maneuvers.
The resort’s learning areas and a team of friendly staff who understand the unique needs of families ensure that everyone, regardless of age or experience, can embark on an enjoyable skiing journey.
Affordability is another hallmark of Centre Vorlage. With budget-friendly lift ticket prices, it’s a smart choice for those seeking the thrill of skiing without having to worry too much about budget.
In addition to the skiing and snowboarding adventures, Centre Vorlage offers an array of winter activities to cater to diverse interests.
From the tranquility of snowshoeing and cross-country skiing to the adrenaline rush of tubing, ice skating, and snowmobiling, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
For a more traditional winter experience, the resort even offers sleigh rides and dog sledding, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the magic of a snowy wonderland.
Besides the exhilarating activities, Centre Vorlage is a picturesque retreat that immerses you in the stunning beauty of the Gatineau Hills. It is home to several hiking trails and lookout points that offer awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding landscape.
It’s an opportunity to connect with nature, rejuvenate your soul, and capture the serenity of the Canadian winter.
Pakenham Ski Hill
Website: https://www.mountpakenham.com/
Address: 577 Ski Hill Rd, Pakenham, ON K0A 2X0, Canada
Contact number: +1 613-624-5290
Operating hours: Monday-Friday: 10:00 AM–3:00 PM
Mount Pakenham stands as one of the closest ski resorts to the city, nestled just 45 minutes from Ottawa. This makes it an immensely convenient destination for both quick day trips and weekend getaways.
Its proximity is a game-changer, sparing you lengthy drives and ensuring that you can swiftly embrace the snowy slopes without excessive travel time.
Mount Pakenham’s allure extends beyond its convenient location. With 10 varied runs, ranging from beginner-friendly trails to challenging expert slopes, the resort caters to skiers of all skill levels.
What’s more, for those seeking a touch of excitement, a terrain park awaits, ready to challenge the skills of snowboarders and skiers alike.
To add to that, Mount Pakenham is the epitome of a family-friendly ski resort. Its array of activities keeps everyone entertained, making sure that the fun lasts for as long as possible.
Not only that but for those new to the sport, a dedicated ski school and a well-stocked rental shop are available, making it effortless to get equipped and hit the slopes.
On select nights, Mount Pakenham transforms into a luminous winter wonderland, with the opportunity to revel in the snowy terrain even after the sun has set.
The fun continues off the slopes. Mount Pakenham offers a tubing hill that promises laughter and adventure for kids and adults alike.
For those seeking a more serene connection with nature, the resort boasts an extensive network of cross-country ski trails that wind their way through the tranquil forest.
Now, suppose you prefer to explore the beauty of the Gatineau Hills on foot. In that case, the variety of snowshoe paths offers breathtaking vistas and moments of quiet reflection in the pristine winter landscape.
And for those yearning for a traditional winter experience, Mount Pakenham provides sleigh rides, taking you on a journey through the picturesque frozen scenery.
If you’re up for something truly unique, the resort even provides exhilarating dog sledding adventures that will undoubtedly be an unforgettable highlight of your visit.
Sommet Edelweiss
Website: https://www.sommets.com/en/ski-mountains/sommet-edelweiss/
Address: 538 Ch Edelweiss, Wakefield, QC J0X 3G0, Canada
Contact number: 450-227-4671
Operating hours:
- Monday: 9:00 AM–9:00 PM
- Tuesday-Friday: 9:00 AM–10:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:30 AM–10:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:30 AM–9:00 PM
For those residing in the nation’s capital, Sommet Edelweiss offers a convenient escape, just a short 30-minute drive north of Ottawa.
This proximity means that outdoor winter activities are always within easy reach, making it an accessible destination for a spontaneous ski getaway and cementing its status as the go-to chilly retreat for Ottawa locals.
Sommet Edelweiss welcomes winter enthusiasts of all levels with open arms, offering a generous selection of 24 trails that span the spectrum from beginner-friendly slopes to challenging expert runs.
The mountain further enhances its allure with a dedicated snowpark that beckons to freestyle skiers and snowboarders and a designated snow tubing area that promises family fun and laughter.
Families are at the heart of Sommet Edelweiss, where a warm and welcoming atmosphere creates a haven for parents and children to revel in winter’s magic together.
The resort’s commitment to family extends to a dedicated children’s learning zone, supervised snow tubing sessions, and a calendar filled with events throughout the season that anyone can enjoy.
Another core part of Sommet Edelweiss’ identity is environmental responsibility. It has a strong focus on eco-conscious practices that benefit both nature and visitors.
The resort’s commitment to sustainability encompasses various initiatives, including the use of energy-efficient snowmaking systems, waste reduction programs, and habitat restoration efforts.
This dedication aligns seamlessly with the growing demand for eco-conscious recreational activities, providing visitors with the satisfaction of knowing they’re skiing in an environmentally responsible way.
Like the other entries in this list, Sommet Edelweiss transforms into a luminous winter wonderland after dark, extending the experience into the evening hours. Skiers and snowboarders can revel in the thrill of illuminated trails under the starlit night sky.
The resort’s extended operating hours provide additional opportunities for winter fun and a unique skiing experience that sets it apart from the rest.