To understand the skiing scene in Canada you must know that it is divided into two major areas.
West and east with distinct different contexts and skiing!
East essentially means Quebec! The centers have shorter runs and less powder! Social life is better and food is much better. Flight time is also shorter.
In east ( Quebec) you have three major regions
Montreal being the hub. You have Laurentians (north of Montrea), Quebec City area, and Eastern Townhips.
Each area has its own very special "quality"
"Social skiers" go to north such as Tremblant, St. Sauveur, Mt. Blanc, etc...
"Family skiers" go to Eastern Townships such as Orford, Sutton, Bromont.
"All activities skiers" go to Quebec City area!
May I suggest skiers visit each ski site for relevant information.
My opinions are the following;
Tremblant
Disney World on skis. Over-priced and tends to be crowed! Lots of hyp related to skiing but no real "committed" skiers there!
St. Anne: Trying to be like Tremblant. Limited ski in ski out. Can be icy
Sutton. Not a place to stay for one week. Too small, social life limited. Poor grooming.
My picks in Quebec for the "real" skier. I define "real skier" as somone who comes to ski period! Social and foods is secondary. Massiff is the spot for powder, long long runs where no one will tell you to slow down!
West
This area is very much like European scene.
Again you have major reagions.
BC : Whistler ( no comment) This year they have now the record snowfall in November. Problem is pre-Olympic construction. No one will tell you that road work to Whistler is terrible!
BC interior This is the spot of "hidden" resorts. Big White is the very best for families.
True ski in ski out! Great school for children!
My favorite is Panorama since it is family yet expert skiers can heli ski, "wild" off-piste ski!
Fernie is the powder mecca! For the purist in powder! Poor grooming. Poor service. Few hotels!Do not ski there alone since you must "know" the bowls and paths!
Best all round western area would be Banff with options to ski at; Lake Louise, Sunshine !
This year so far best place to ski is west due to great snow!
Hope this helps you all!
