From Montreal: Skiing or Snowboarding Day Trip

If you’re looking to escape the city for a day and hit the snowy slopes of Quebec, this guided ski or snowboard trip to Lanaudière offers an appealing blend of convenience, scenery, and fun. Designed for all levels, it’s a good choice whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner eager to try snowboarding for the first time.

We love the comfortable transport that takes you straight from Montreal’s Radisson Metro Station to the mountains, making logistics fuss-free. The variety of runs and terrain ensures there’s enough challenge and variety to keep everyone engaged. Plus, the chance to experience local food and drinks adds a nice touch of regional flavor.

That said, one thing to consider is the lack of included equipment—though rentals are available at the resort, bringing your own gear or budgetting extra for rentals might be necessary. This tour suits travelers craving an accessible, well-organized day of snow sports without the hassle of planning transport or accommodation.

Key Points

• All-in-one day trip: Guided roundtrip transportation from Montreal makes it hassle-free.
• Suitable for all levels: Multiple runs, snow parks, and sous-bois terrain cater to beginners and seasoned skiers alike.
• Optional lessons: You can enhance your experience with a private lesson (extra cost).
• Local flavor: Enjoy regional food and drinks either during lunch or after your time on the slopes.
• Authentic mountain experience: The Lanaudière ski resorts feature stunning scenery and diverse terrain.
• Customer praise: High ratings for guides, value, and overall fun, with some minor complaints about staffing and amenities.

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An Honest Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The trip kicks off early in the morning, with pick-up arranged at a designated spot behind the north exit of Radisson Metro Station in Montreal. The guide provides a friendly, informative welcome, setting the tone for the day. The minibus—described as a Bonjour Nature confort vehicle—offers a comfortable ride that takes approximately 75 minutes to reach Lanaudière.

Traveling in a small group ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd, and the guide’s commentary about the region’s culture and history helps pass the time while you enjoy the scenic drive. Many reviews praise the ease of logistics, with one traveler noting, “Easy pick-up from Montreal in a designated location easily accessible by public transport. The shuttle drives you to the ski lodge and back after the day.”

Arrival and Skiing Conditions

Once at the resort, you’ll find a lively atmosphere with a variety of terrain. The resort’s landscape includes multiple runs, snow parks, and sous-bois (under-wood) trails, making it ideal for different skill levels. Whether you’re looking for gentle beginner slopes or more challenging runs, the resort offers enough options to keep you busy for about six hours.

Equipment Rental and Lessons

If you don’t have your own gear, rentals are available at the resort, and these are typically provided upon arrival. The reviews suggest that the equipment quality is good and well-maintained, with many travelers appreciating the convenience. You can also choose to add a 1-hour private lesson, perfect for beginners or those wanting a quick refresher. The instructors are described as friendly and professional, helping build confidence so you can enjoy the rest of your day.

On the Mountain and Amenities

The mountain scenery is a highlight—expect stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere that’s a far cry from the busy city. The resort has indoor and outdoor spaces for breaks, and you can either bring your own lunch or purchase food on-site. Most reviews mention that the resort has a good variety of dining options, though one noted a lack of hot water and broken facilities, so be prepared.

Post-Skiing and Return Trip

After a full day on the slopes, the guide will pick you up and transport you back to Montreal. Many reviewers emphasize how smooth and punctual the return trip is, with one saying, “The driver was very clear and helpful, good day on the slopes.”

The Real Traveler Experience

Based on feedback, the trip tends to be well-organized and enjoyable. Travelers frequently mention the knowledgeable guides who add a personal touch, making newcomers feel at ease. Multiple reviews highlight the stunning views and how the variety of trails keeps the experience fresh.

The value for money is often praised—considering the transport, mountain access, and equipment rentals, many feel they get a good deal. One guest from the U.S. said, “Great value, great time,” and another from the UK called it “well worth the money.”

However, some travelers mention staffing issues at the resort—bathrooms not functioning and limited amenities like water or hot drinks—though these seem to be isolated problems rather than the norm. If comfort and amenities are priorities, it’s worth arriving with some supplies and patience.

Reviews frequently mention the friendly, helpful attitude of guides and staff, which really makes a difference for those new to skiing or snowboarding. For beginners, the option to add lessons is a bonus, as one first-time skier remarked, “I thoroughly enjoyed my full day skiing trip.”

The Itinerary in Detail

Morning Pickup and Drive

Your day begins early around 8 am with a pickup at the Radisson Metro Station, a central and accessible location in Montreal. The ride to Lanaudière is about an hour and a quarter, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery—and learn some fun facts about the region from your guide.

Arrival at Lanaudière Ski Resort

Once at the resort, you’ll have the choice to rent equipment if needed, which is conveniently provided on-site. Rentals include skis, snowboards, and helmets, but be aware that snow-specific clothing like pants, jackets, gloves, and goggles are not included and need to be brought or purchased separately.

The resort’s terrain offers a mix of trails, from beginner slopes to more advanced runs, along with snow parks and sous-bois trails. This variety ensures that everyone can find something suited to their skill level, and it’s especially appealing for groups with mixed abilities.

Time on the Slopes

You’ll spend roughly six hours on the mountain, with plenty of opportunities to take breaks, socialize, and soak in the winter scenery. Many reviews mention how enjoyable and scenic the experience is, with one traveler noting, “You’ll love the views.”

If you’ve opted for a lesson, this is when you’ll get personalized coaching from certified instructors, helping new snowboarders or skiers build their confidence and technique.

Lunch and Rest

Lunchtime is flexible—you can bring your own or buy something at the on-site restaurants. Some reviewers have praised the food options, describing them as satisfying after several hours of activity. If you’re craving regional flavors or just need a quick snack, the resort has a variety of choices.

Afternoon and Return

As the day winds down, the guide will come back to pick you up, ensuring a smooth and timely return to Montreal. The journey back offers a chance to relax, reflect on the day, and share stories of those runs or lessons.

Who Will Love This Trip?

This tour offers a straightforward, well-organized day of winter fun that’s ideal for those who want to try skiing or snowboarding without the hassle of planning. It’s especially suited for:

• Beginners or first-time snowboarders who want a guided experience.
• Families or groups with mixed skill levels, thanks to the variety of terrain.
• Travelers who value local regional experiences, including the chance to enjoy regional food.
• Those who prefer to travel comfortably with minimal logistics—the transportation is taken care of.
• Visitors who are happy to pay a bit extra for equipment rentals or lessons to enhance their experience.

It may not be the best choice for those seeking a luxury mountain resort or nearby après-ski scene, as the focus is more on the outdoor activity and scenic day trip.

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The Sum Up

This guided day trip from Montreal to Lanaudière offers a dependable, enjoyable way to experience Quebec’s winter landscape. The combination of convenient transport, diverse terrain, and friendly guides makes it suitable for all skill levels, especially beginners and casual skiers. The opportunity to add lessons, rent gear, and enjoy regional food adds to its appeal, making it a solid choice for a winter day escape.

While a few reviews highlight staffing and amenities issues at the resort, these are generally minor compared to the overall positive experience. The trip’s value lies in its simplicity and accessibility, providing a full day of outdoor fun without the stress of travel planning.

If you’re after an authentic mountain experience with a touch of local flavor and good company, this tour is worth considering. It’s best for travelers who want a hassle-free way to enjoy Quebec’s snowy mountains and are comfortable with a daytime time commitment.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transport from Montreal’s Radisson Metro Station is included, making the experience more straightforward and less stressful.

Can I rent equipment at the resort?
Yes, ski and snowboard equipment are available for rent on-site. The rentals are provided upon arrival and are generally well-maintained.

Are lessons available?
Yes, you can add a 1-hour private lesson during the booking process, which is ideal for beginners or those wanting a quick skill boost.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, gloves, and snow-specific gear, as these are not included in the rental. You can also bring your own lunch or buy food at the resort.

How long do I spend on the mountain?
The itinerary allocates about 6 hours for skiing or snowboarding, with some free time for breaks and meals.

Is this trip suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention first-timers enjoying the experience, and lessons are available to help build confidence.

This day trip combines ease, scenic beauty, and a variety of terrain, making it a practical and fun way to explore Quebec’s winter landscape without the need for overnight stays. Perfect for casual skiers, groups, or anyone looking for a straightforward mountain adventure from Montreal.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby