You don’t have to go far to ski from Toronto. The city has its own small hills, and bigger resorts are one to two hours away.
Inside Toronto
- Centennial Park Ski and Snowboard Centre (Etobicoke) and Earl Bales Park Ski and Snowboard Centre (North York) are run by the City of Toronto. They’re small, affordable and great for lessons and beginners.
In the GTA
- Glen Eden in Milton, in the Kelso Conservation Area, about 45 minutes away. Milton Christmas events
- Uplands Ski Centre in Thornhill, a small hill for learners.
- Durham Region hills such as Lakeridge, Dagmar and Brimacombe, about an hour away.
Day trips north
- Blue Mountain near Collingwood, Ontario’s largest ski resort, about two hours away.
- Horseshoe Resort, Mount St. Louis Moonstone and Snow Valley near Barrie, about an hour to 90 minutes away.
Learning to ski or snowboard
The holidays are a great time to start. Most hills near Toronto offer:
- Group lessons for kids and adults, often bundled with rentals and a lift ticket.
- Private lessons for faster progress.
- Learn-to-ski packages over several weeks.
- Holiday camps for kids during the winter break.
The City of Toronto’s ski centres at Centennial Park and Earl Bales Park are especially good for beginners, with gentle slopes and affordable lessons. Book early, as December and January lesson spots fill quickly.
What to wear and bring
- A ski helmet (rentals are usually available).
- Waterproof jacket and pants.
- Base layers of wool or synthetic fabric, not cotton.
- Ski socks, one pair, not two.
- Goggles, warm gloves or mittens, and a neck warmer.
- Sunscreen and lip balm, as snow reflects the sun.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing
If downhill isn’t your thing, try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Conservation areas around the GTA, such as Albion Hills in Caledon, and parks within the city groom trails when there’s enough snow. Some rent equipment on site. It’s a great, quieter way to enjoy the winter landscape. See winter hikes.
Ski day tips
- Buy lift tickets online in advance for the best price.
- Arrive early to beat rental lines.
- Ski weekdays if you can; weekends and holidays are busiest.
- Take breaks to warm up and stay hydrated.
- Check conditions and the snow report before you go.
Skiing near Toronto: FAQ
Where can I ski in Toronto? At the City-run Centennial Park and Earl Bales Park ski centres.
What’s the closest big ski resort to Toronto? Blue Mountain near Collingwood, about two hours away, is Ontario’s largest. Blue Mountain at Christmas
When does ski season start? Usually in early to mid-December, depending on the weather.
When does ski season start?
Most hills aim to open in early-to-mid December, depending on cold weather for snowmaking. The holiday break is peak time, so book lessons and rentals early.
Tips
- Buy lift tickets online for discounts.
- Avoid weekends if you can.
- Check road conditions on Highway 400 and Highway 26 in snow.
More: Christmas day trips from Toronto · what to pack for winter
