Ottawa is well situated for skiers, with some great destinations within a 2-hour radius from The Capital. But for those looking for a challenge, what direction should you go? We asked our readers and followers to name the most challenging ski hills near the city.
Downhill
Calabogie Peaks
1 Hour
Just an hour from downtown Ottawa, Calabogie Peaks is Eastern Ontario’s tallest mountain resort with the highest vertical in Ontario (780 ft or 280m). The resort also has the longest beginner run in the province. There’s something for everyone at this destination, and those looking for a challenge will surely find it.
Edelweiss
30 Minutes
Just 30 minutes from downtown, in Wakefield, is Edelweiss. One of many ski hills in the Outaouais, readers recommend this hill for two black diamond routes: Streif and Shotgun. Both challenging, but one is straight and one is turning. Edelweiss has a total of 20 trails across 160 acres.
Mont. Ste Marie
1 Hour
An hour from Ottawa, and also in the Outaouais, Mont. Ste Marie is a privately owned ski hill perfect for intermediate-to-advanced skiers. The 20 trails are all generally steep, and there’s only one route for beginners
Camp Fortunate
30 Minutes
This medium-sized ski hill in Chelsea, QC has an even mix of Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced runs, but readers suggest that experienced skiers try Heggtveit, a narrow and steep black diamond.
Reminiscing
Carlington Ski Hill – Anne Heggtviet
Although you can no longer ski at this hill, the Ottawa community continues to reminisce on this resort. The hill was used for skiing from 1965 to the end of the 1989-90 season. The hill was named after Ottawa-born skier and Olympic gold medalist, Anne Heggtviet. Before that, other readers remember calling this spot ‘Devil’s Hill’.
Cross Country
Ski Heritage East
One of the largest networks in the capital, this 80km network of trails runs from Green’s Creek through to Trim Road along the Ottawa River. The trails are open through March, and groomed regularly.
