Annual Leave Explorers

If you’re a skier based in Toronto, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to ski hills close to home. Blue Mountain, Horseshoe Valley, and Mount St. Louis Moonstone all offer decent options for a quick day trip. But if you’re looking for a long weekend getaway with more varied terrain, longer runs, and fewer crowds, it’s worth venturing a little farther afield. While Mont Tremblant is the go-to ski destination within driving distance, it can often feel overwhelmingly busy. Instead, consider heading towards the Quebec-Vermont border, where you’ll find some fantastic ski resorts and great value for money.

Jay Peak: Big Terrain, Affordable Skiing

One of the best places for an extended ski weekend is Jay Peak, a large ski resort in Vermont known for its excellent glade skiing, impressive vertical drop, and consistently good snow conditions. A six-to-seven-hour drive from Toronto, the trip is straightforward and well worth the effort. While Jay Peak can get busy on weekends, we’ve never found the crowds to be a major issue.

One of the biggest perks of skiing at Jay Peak is the cost savings available to Canadian visitors. If you pay in cash, the resort allows Canadians to purchase lift tickets at par with the Canadian dollar—a significant discount compared to using credit cards, which apply the exchange rate. Just bring proof of Canadian residency, and you’ll be skiing for much less than most Vermont resorts.

Where to Stay: Cross the Border for a Better Deal

Instead of booking accommodation at Jay Peak itself, which can be pricey, consider staying just across the border in Quebec. The small town of Mansonville, about a 20-minute drive from Jay Peak, offers charming and affordable places to stay. With a range of cozy Airbnbs and accommodations available on Booking.com, you can enjoy a more relaxed, authentic experience without breaking the bank. Mansonville has everything you need, from local restaurants to grocery stores, making it a convenient base for your ski trip.

Owl’s Head: A Hidden Gem Nearby

Just a short drive from Mansonville, you’ll find Owl’s Head, another fantastic ski resort that offers a great alternative (or addition) to Jay Peak. While slightly smaller, Owl’s Head boasts an impressive vertical drop and stunning views overlooking Lake Memphremagog. The resort tends to be much quieter than Jay Peak, with minimal lift lines and wide-open runs. There’s also a welcoming ski lodge and bar—perfect for warming up after a long day on the slopes.

Places to stay:

Hotel de l’horizon

B&B Pinorama

Chalet Deschamps | spa | dog friendly

For large groups: The OokPik, Spa, Lake, Firepit

Why This Trip is Worth It

If you’re looking for an affordable yet adventurous long weekend ski trip from Toronto, heading east to Jay Peak and Owl’s Head is a fantastic option. You’ll get to experience bigger mountains, enjoy some of the best glade skiing in the East, and save money by staying in Quebec and taking advantage of the Canadian dollar lift pass deal. Plus, the drive is scenic and easy, making for a stress-free journey.

So, the next time you’re considering a ski weekend, think beyond Tremblant—there’s a whole world of great skiing just across the border waiting to be explored!