Best Ski Resorts in the Laurentides: 2026-27 Guide
- November 7, 2026
- 4
- Ski Resorts
Looking for the best ski resorts in the Laurentides? Just an hour or so north of Montreal, the region packs more downhill ski areas than almost anywhere else in Quebec, from the big-mountain feel of Tremblant to small family hills where kids can lap the bunny slope all afternoon. This guide walks through the main Laurentides ski resorts, who each one suits best, and how to plan a smooth ski day or weekend this 2026-27 season.
How to choose a Laurentides ski resort
Every hill in the region has its own personality. Before you pick one, think about three things:
- Your level: beginners and young families do best on smaller hills with gentle, uncrowded runs; strong skiers will want more vertical and glades.
- Your schedule: some resorts are known for night skiing, which is ideal after work or school.
- Your travel time: the Saint-Sauveur area is the closest cluster to Montreal, while Tremblant and Mont Blanc are further up Highway 15 and Route 117.
If you are driving up in winter, read our guide to winter driving in the Laurentides before you leave.
Tremblant: the region’s flagship ski resort
Tremblant is the best-known ski resort in the Laurentides and the one most visitors picture first. It offers the largest terrain in the region, several mountain faces, long cruising runs, steeper expert terrain and a pedestrian village at the base with restaurants, shops and lodging.
Best for: ski weekends, mixed-ability groups, and anyone who wants a full resort experience. For season dates and what is new on the mountain this winter, see our Tremblant 2026-27 ski season update.
The Saint-Sauveur cluster: close to Montreal
The Saint-Sauveur valley is the closest major ski area to Montreal and a favourite for day trips. Several hills sit within a short drive of each other.
Sommet Saint-Sauveur
The busiest hill in the valley, with a wide range of runs and a strong reputation for night skiing. It is a natural choice for evening sessions and for groups that want plenty of terrain without driving far.
Sommet Morin-Heights, Sommet Gabriel and Sommet Olympia
These sister hills are generally calmer than Saint-Sauveur. Morin-Heights is popular with families, Gabriel has some of the more interesting terrain in the area, and Olympia is a relaxed spot to learn or build confidence.
Mont Habitant
A smaller, family-run style hill in Saint-Sauveur, appreciated for its friendly atmosphere and manageable size, especially for kids and beginners.
Mont Blanc: big terrain without the crowds
Mont Blanc, in Saint-Faustin-Lac-Carré, is one of the larger mountains in the Laurentides. It attracts skiers who want long runs and a more laid-back vibe than Tremblant, which is only a short drive further north. Many families combine the two over a long weekend.
Family-friendly hills in the Laurentides
Smaller resorts are often the best value and the least intimidating places to learn:
- Belle Neige (Val-Morin): a compact hill with a welcoming, local feel.
- Vallée Bleue (Val-David): well suited to beginners and lessons, close to the artists’ village of Val-David.
- Mont Avila (Piedmont): a small hill near Saint-Sauveur, handy for short sessions and first days on skis.
Opening days, hours and lift prices change every season, so always check each resort’s official information before you go.
Quick comparison table
| Resort | Area | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Tremblant | Mont-Tremblant | Ski weekends, all levels, resort village |
| Sommet Saint-Sauveur | Saint-Sauveur | Day trips, night skiing |
| Sommet Morin-Heights | Morin-Heights | Families, quieter slopes |
| Sommet Gabriel | Sainte-Adèle area | Varied terrain close to Montreal |
| Mont Blanc | Saint-Faustin-Lac-Carré | Long runs, fewer crowds |
| Belle Neige, Vallée Bleue, Mont Avila | Val-Morin, Val-David, Piedmont | Beginners and kids |
Tips to plan your Laurentides ski trip
Buy passes and lessons early
Lift tickets are usually cheaper online and in advance, and lessons for children fill up quickly during the holidays and spring break. Multi-resort passes can make sense if you plan to ski several hills in the Saint-Sauveur valley.
Go midweek or ski at night
Weekends and holiday weeks are the busiest. Midweek days and night skiing sessions mean shorter lift lines and easier parking.
Think about transport
Most skiers drive, but it is possible to reach some areas by bus. Our guide to the Laurentides without a car explains the options.
Mix it up
Not everyone in your group has to ski every day. The region is also great for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, Nordic spas and village strolls.
Where to stay near the slopes
For a ski weekend, lodging close to the hill saves time every morning. Tremblant has a slope-side village, while Saint-Sauveur and Sainte-Adèle offer inns, motels and condo-style rentals. Browse our sister site’s Laurentides hotel guides to compare areas and hotel types, or look at chalet rentals in the Laurentides if you are travelling as a family or a group.
FAQ: ski resorts in the Laurentides
What is the biggest ski resort in the Laurentides?
Tremblant is the largest and best-known ski resort in the region, with the most terrain and a full resort village at its base.
Which Laurentides ski hill is closest to Montreal?
The Saint-Sauveur valley hills, including Sommet Saint-Sauveur, Mont Habitant and Mont Avila, are the closest major ski areas to Montreal.
Where can I night ski in the Laurentides?
Sommet Saint-Sauveur is the best-known spot for night skiing, and several other hills offer evening sessions. Hours vary by season, so check before you go.
What is the best Laurentides ski resort for beginners?
Smaller hills such as Vallée Bleue, Belle Neige, Mont Avila and Sommet Olympia are relaxed places to learn, with gentle slopes and ski school programs.