Quebec gets covered with snow every year and becomes a winter wonderland. Its snow blanket measures more than 300 cm in certain cities, even getting deeper in its magnificent mountains. With that, it’s no surprise that it has become a haven for skiers as it offers some of the best skiing locations in The Great White North. Whether you want to showcase your skills, learn the ropes, or just try a few runs, Quebec has all reasons why you should try its slopes at least once in your lifetime.
Quebec’s Best Ski Locations
With stunning ski regions scattered in two vast mountain ranges, the Appalachians and the Laurentians, choosing where to spend your ski adventure in Quebec can be a daunting task. Fortunately, there are more popular locations where you can experience the amazing fun not only with its snow, but with its social life, cuisine, and plenty of places to lurk around.
Mont Tremblant
Voted as the best resort for almost two decades, Mont Tremblant is regarded as the skiers’ paradise. It boasts topmost terrain parks, perfect for both beginners and professionals looking to hone their skills in its magnificent landscape. Once you fill your heart’s content, enjoy its family-oriented village, and satisfy yourself more by indulging in a·près-ski, fine dining, or visiting pubs.
Mont-Sainte-Anne
Another famous ski hill in Quebec is Mont-Sainte-Anne. Get ready to do fantastic runs down the slope with its incredible trails, surrounded by hardwoods, and providing a magnificent view of the St. Lawrence River. There also other activities for your friends who might not be into skiing. They can go snowshoeing, ice skating, fat biking, or paragliding, making Mont-Sainte-Anne a perfect fit for everyone.
Le Massif de Charlevoix
If you’re the type of person that loves the extremes, Le Massif de Charlevoix is the place to go, simply because it lies above the rest. This place has the longest sledding track, the highest vertical drop, and the East’s largest annual snowfall. It’s no wonder that it attracts many feisty skiers looking for an elevated experience.
Stoneham
Stoneham lies only 20 minutes away from downtown Québec City, making it ideal for families looking for a ski location just right in the city’s backyard, both day and night. After skiing with your loved ones together, you can go back and enjoy Quebec’s city posh life, world-class cuisine, spa zones, intimate shows, large concerts, and a lot of more – your choices are just endless!
Best Time for Skiing in Quebec
Quebec’s annual ski season usually starts from mid-December to mid-April, but ski locations may open in the last weeks of November and milk the snow until they can and close in May. If you’re planning on a skiing trip with your family and friends, it is best to know what to expect each month.
While skiing can happen in November, it rarely does. Often, there are few runs open as there is enough snowfall to blanket the trails. With that, it is best to wait until December when most ski resorts are already operational. If you’re in for some quieter time, skiing in the first weeks might be better as lineups may start to build up going into the holidays.
Temperatures are the coldest in January and may last until February. The trails tend to have firmer and grainy snow, allowing faster and solid runs. It’s a great time to ski as long as you can withstand the cold spells.
March to April are the best months to ski in Quebec as the weather and snow conditions become more preferable. Snow tends to be wetter and heftier, making it easier to practice your runs and display your skills down the slope. Meanwhile, the weather usually features sunnier days, permitting more comfortable clothes.
Most ski resorts start to wind down in mid-April. So, skiing in May will leave you fewer options. If you’re persistent, you can still enjoy late-spring skiing in some locations.
Few Tips To Consider
While a skiing trip may be enticing to go right away, there are a few things you’ll need to know to make the adventure seamless or more enjoyable.
Money and Banking Facilities
The national currency of Quebec is the Canadian dollar. Don’t fret, as most establishments and resorts accept bank cards and credit cards. Moreover, you won’t have issues accessing cash as ATMs, and international money transfer kiosks are scattered in towns and cities.
Purchase tickets and book accommodations online
For most accommodations and ski resorts, it is best to purchase the tickets and book rooms online to save up money. Often, there are discounts offered, plus you get to avoid the hassle of finding a good place to stay once you’re in Quebec.
Get an insurance
Skiing is fun, but while we don’t want it to happen, we never know when accidents can happen on the slopes. Before traveling internationally to Quebec, purchasing insurance is a smart move to keep you protected should any mishap happen.
Get your snow gear
Whether you’re purchasing or renting, getting good and complete snow gear is a must for you to get the best skiing experience. Wear waterproof pants and jackets and find ones that zip firmly to avoid moisture from coming in. For the first layer of garments, it is also best to use moisture-wicking clothes. Cotton is a big no. Polyester and other moisture-wicking synthetics are your best bet. Other parts of the gear you should never forget are socks, mitten, beanies, and your googles.
Conclusion
Quebec offers stunning landscapes, incredible terrains, and magnificent weather perfect for anyone’s skiing adventures. It is then accentuated by the province’s rich culture, distinct cruising, and posh social life. Just make sure to plan ahead to get the best of your trip and be ready to have a once in a lifetime skiing experience.