Where to Go Uphill Skiing in the Townships?

Alpine touring, uphill skiing, ski mountaineering (skimo ), … All these names refer to the same activity involving heading up a mountain with skis fitted with climbing skins in order to ski back down the hill. Here is an overview of the different venues offering this activity in the Townships.

Mont-Orford

Spread throughout the three sides of the skiable domain, the 12 forest ascent trails and the 12 slope side trails make Mont-Orford the Eastern Townships resort with the largest alpine touring domain. Are you just starting out? Take La Tortue and the Tracé du Lynx trails that will take you to the top of Mont Giroux. An intermediate level skier? Follow the Alouette trail to the summit of Alfred-Desrochers. Are you an expert? Climb all three hillsides on the Renard, the Lièvre, the Campagnol and the Alouette trails. No matter what your level might be, you’ll experience a memorable outdoor moment. Don't forget that in winter, Mont-Orford Ski Resort offers a shuttle that goes to Sherbrooke. No need for a car, just bring your skis!

Schedule: from 6:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. Consult each designated zone’s hours according to the ski resort schedule.

©Alyson Gendron-Gallant

Bromont, montagne d’expériences

Teriyaski, Chipotle, Épicée, Tzatziski, BBQ... These are some of the names given to the 18 uphill trails you can explore in Bromont. Depending on the route you take, you can explore one or more of the resort’s seven hillsides and reach the summit of Mount Brome, Mount Spruce or Pic du chevreuil. To head back down, you can choose from among the 123 trails spread throughout the skiable domain. With these names and their different levels of difficulty, you’ll notice that in Bromont you’ll find trails to suit any taste! For those carpooling, Bromont, montagne d’expériences has reserved parking spots close to the main entrance just for you!

Schedule: varies depending on the hillsides.

Mont SUTTON

Well known for its legendary glades, Mont SUTTON offers five uphill routes dedicated to alpine touring. The West Trail, with a total length of 3.8 km, provides access to the forest skiing area, where three glade zones are set up for the descent. The East Trail, starting from Parking Lot P2 (400 m), leads to the resort’s expert runs after a 2.7 km ascent. It can also be accessed from Parking Lot P5 (520 m) to reach the Alt. 840 lodge after a 1.4 km climb. The Farwest and Midwest trails are the longest and most demanding options, stretching over 4.2 km, and are best suited for experienced skiers. Please note that outside the resort’s operating hours (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.), certain designated runs are also open for uphill travel.

Schedule : from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Consult each designated trail’s hours, according to the ski resort schedule.

©Jessie Jolin

Owl’s Head

For the more adventurous, it is possible to climb the mountain outside lift operating hours, offering access to a wider selection of uphill routes. However, those who prefer to tour during daylight hours can rest assured: the Grand Duc and Upward Trail runs remain open for uphill ski touring from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.. Along the way, several scenic viewpoints allow you to catch your breath while taking in the surrounding panorama. Please note: for descents outside lift operating hours, only the designated runs shown on the trail map may be used.

Schedule: 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Be sure to consult the designated zones according to the schedule in effect.

Mont Hereford – Circuits Frontières

Since 2015, the organization Circuits Frontières has been working to make the forest of Mount Hereford accessible for Alpine touring adepts. Here, you won’t find a ski resort with lifts and artificial snow equipment. There’s only one 6 km uphill trail, shared with snowshoers, and two skiable slopes, the 3 Dames and the Piments. With an altitude elevation of 250 m and 200 m respectively, the two slopes offer you some beautiful descents through the trees. Psst! You can also rent the Vieux Panache shelter (open to all during the day) to spend the night at the foot of the 3 Dames slope and be the first on the mountain next morning. Perfect for snowstorm days!

Schedule: Anytime, at your own risk.

Parc du Mont Hatley

After being inaccessible for many years in winter, this small mountain in North Hatley, formerly known as Montjoye, is once again open during the winter season—for the great delight of alpine touring enthusiasts! To reach the summit, you can choose from five forest ascent trails, and for the descent, six groomed runs and glades are available. With both the climbs and descents being relatively easy, it’s an ideal spot for those new to alpine touring or for anyone looking for a short outing. And if you’re not yet fully equipped, gear rentals are available on site (weekends only and by reservation).

Schedule: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

A Short Manners and Etiquette Guide

Respect the opening and closing times.
Each ski resort has a detailed schedule with specific instructions you must comply with both during and outside of the resort’s operating hours. Inform yourself and choose a trail that respects your ability level!
Obey the signposts.
Non-accessible trails, prohibited slopes, closed areas ... follow the signposts to stay within the marked areas. In most cases, the uphill trails are not patrolled and rescue services are limited.
You must buy your access rights before your outing.
The best way to obtain access rights is online, on each venue’s website.
Have all the proper equipment
Headlamps to be visible in the evening, proper clothing, food and water, a first aid kit ... these are all essential items you should always have with you.
Leave your dog at home.
With the exception of Mount Hereford and Mount Hatley where dogs on a leash are allowed, it is prohibited to bring your dog on the uphill ski trails.
You must respect each mountain’s conduct code.
For a harmonious cohabitation between all users, please respect the code!

Mont-Orford

Bromont, montagne d’expériences

Mont SUTTON

Owl’s Head

Mont Hereford – Circuits Frontières

Parc du Mont Hatley

A Short Manners and Etiquette Guide

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