Western Canada got a jump on the season, but the snow gods haven’t exactly been generous. Out East, resorts take their time and lean on snowmaking, but lifts are already spinning, and runs are getting groomed. Early-season skiing is calling, giving riders a sneak peek at winter while the real snow show builds up.
Mont Tremblant (Quebec)
Trails / Terrain: 102 trails, ~762 acres
Vertical Drop: ~645 m
Summit Elevation: ~875 m
Current Status: 8/14 Lifts Open
Skier Thoughts:
Mont Tremblant is a perennial Eastern powerhouse. Its large terrain and strong snowmaking make it reliable for early-season skiing. Groomers and variety in runs mean there’s something for everyone, even before the big snow arrives.
Mont Sutton (Quebec)
Trails / Terrain: 60 trails, ~230 acres
Vertical Drop: ~460 m
Current Status: 2/10 Lifts Open
Skier Thoughts:
Mont Sutton is a great early-season bet. With lifts turning and snow starting to pile up, glade and natural terrain enthusiasts can get a taste of winter. The mountain isn’t deep yet, but it’s shaping up well.
Mont Orford (Quebec)
Trails / Terrain: 62 trails, ~245 acres
Vertical Drop: ~540 m
Summit Elevation: ~853 m
Current Status: 3/7 Lifts Open
Skier Thoughts:
Mont Orford is off to a solid start. Early lifts and a decent base make it a top choice for those chasing early groomers and consistent runs. Coverage will grow fast if cold and snow continue.
Blue Mountain (Ontario)
Trails / Terrain: 43 runs, ~364 acres
Vertical Drop: ~220 m
Snowmaking: Nearly full coverage
Opening Day: December 11
Current Status: Closed
Skier Thoughts:
Blue Mountain is ideal for a convenient Ontario ski day. Snowmaking keeps runs reliable, but vertical is modest. Great for beginners and quick laps when you want easy access and consistent terrain.
Bromont (Quebec)
Trails / Terrain: 123 trails, ~450 acres
Vertical Drop: ~361 m
Opening Day: December 6
Current Status: Opening day! 2/11 Lifts Open
Skier Thoughts:
Bromont’s snowmaking and night skiing give it an edge in early season. Terrain is reliable once snowmaking ramps up, but natural snow coverage is still minimal in early December.
Ski Wentworth (Nova Scotia)
Trails / Terrain: 23 trails, ~150 acres
Vertical Drop: ~249 m
Snowfall / Snowmaking: ~381 cm annual snowfall, ~75% snowmaking
Opening Day: Early December
Skier Thoughts:
Wentworth is a staple for Maritime skiers. Modest terrain but reliable when snowmaking is active. Perfect for locals or early-season practice laps.
Le Massif (Quebec)
Trails / Terrain: 52 trails, ~440 acres
Vertical Drop: 770 m (largest in Eastern Canada)
Summit Elevation: ~806 m
Opening Day: Early December
Skier Thoughts:
Le Massif offers the tallest vertical in Eastern Canada. It’s a serious mountain for steep terrain lovers. Early-season coverage may be limited to key runs, but the vertical promise and views make it worth keeping an eye on.
Loch Lomond (Ontario)
Trails / Terrain: 26 trails, ~80 acres
Vertical Drop: ~125 m
Opening Day: Typically mid-December
Current Status: Closed or limited runs early season
Skier Thoughts:
Loch Lomond is Thunder Bay’s go-to hill. Modest by vertical standards but reliable for locals. Early snow is often artificial, but it’s perfect for quick laps or a family-friendly ski day.
Overall Thoughts
Eastern Canada is warming up for winter in style. Lifts are spinning, runs are groomed, and snowmaking has the mountains ready for early-season laps. It’s not full-on powder heaven yet, but the season’s shaping up nicely, and the first turns are already calling.
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