Experience the best snowboarding in Ontario

Top snowboarding hills

Find some of the best snowboarding in Ontario at these hills, resorts and terrain parks.

Blue Mountain Resort

Boasting one of Ontario’s highest vertical drops (220 metres) and more rideable terrain than anywhere else in the province, Blue Mountain has 11 lifts and nearly 30 kilometres of slopes to shred.

Half the mountain’s runs are rated intermediate, while a full 30% are for advanced riders. The terrain includes wide groomers, bumps, super-pipes, and off-piste tree runs. Advanced riders can get massive air and epic rail rides at Badlands Terrain Park.

On top of all that, you’ll find a European-style pedestrian village with a lively après scene with on-mountain pubs, dining, boutiques, hotels and spas. A convenient accommodation option is Westin Trillium House.

Location: 190 Gord Canning Drive, The Blue Mountains

Searchmont Resort

just outside Sault Ste. Marie, Searchmont is one of Ontario’s top snowboarding resorts.

Perched on a vertical drop of 214 metres, over 20 runs twist and turn through the rugged terrain of the Canadian Shield. Bush trails and glades challenge adventurous riders, while a terrain park beckons freestylers. But the best part may be all that natural, fluffy snowfall—with almost four metres (11 feet) annually, chances are good for catching a powder day. The terrain park features bumps, jumps and rails of all sizes, the park also hosts a slate of fun freestyle events and programs each winter.

Searchmont has recently completed major upgrades to grooming, snowmaking, lifts and dining. Plus, newly renovated suites at the base of the hill make Searchmont one of the only northern resorts where you can stay slopeside. Nearby Sault Ste. Marie also offers a range of convenient accommodations, including the popular Water Tower Inn.

Location: 103 Searchmont Resort Road, Searchmont

Loch Lomond

Set in the Nor’Wester Mountains near Thunder Bay, Loch Lomond is a spectacular destination for snowboarding.

Expert riders head to the north side of this 229-metre drop, where the steepest and most challenging terrain includes tree runs and double black diamonds. A terrain park and weekend night skiing are also available.

Thunder Bay's waterfront Delta Hotels by Marriott has breathtaking Lake Superior views. Experience Finnish culture at Kangas Sauna, where the dry heat banishes winter chills and aching quads.

Location: 1800 Loch Lomond Road, Thunder Bay

Mount Jamieson

The 27 runs at Mount Jamieson skew towards advanced, with four double-blacks and three glades challenging expert tree riders. If steeps, trees and cliffs aren’t your thing, freestylers will also find a terrain park with all the usual features.

Relax at one of Mount Jamieson’s bars or return to Timmins for more après options. Just 20 minutes away, Cedar Meadows Resort & Spa offers the full resort experience in a beautiful natural setting with luxury suites, delicious food, Nordic baths and even a 40-hectare wildlife park.

Location: 5050 Kamiskotia Road, Timmins

Calabogie Peaks

The 238-metre vertical drop at Calabogie Peaks is the highest in the province but that isn’t the only reason to visit this Eastern Ontario resort. Its 32 hectares of rideable terrain are served by two speedy quad chairs, minimizing lift time and maximizing your vert.

The 24 runs are long—the longest is over two kilometres—so you can really get in the groove. Expert runs make up 25% of the total terrain and there are also rail parks, a mogul field and a snocross track.

Slopeside dining and ski-in/ski-out lodging at the Calabogie Peaks Hotel make this a great weekend destination from the capital region. Off-piste and après activities include pond skating, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, outdoor bonfires and pouring a pint of craft beer at Calabogie Brewing Co.

Location: 30 Barrett Chute Road, Calabogie

Sir Sam’s

Ontario’s second-oldest family-owned ski and snowboard area is set among 40 hectares of hardwood forest and Canadian Shield outcrops overlooking Eagle and Moose Lakes. Over 40% of the hill’s 14 runs are rated difficult, with a terrain park serving up rails, jumps and tabletops.

Choose from various accommodations nearby or plan a romantic couple’s getaway at Sir Sam’s Inn, a luxury adult resort and spa just a short walk from the hill. Since 1919, this restored inn offers fine dining and lakeside rooms with cozy wood-burning fireplaces and whirlpool baths.

Location: 1054 Liswood Road, Eagle Lake

Noteworthy terrain parks

Mount St. Louis Moonstone

Renowned for having the best terrain parks east of the Rockies, Mount St. Louis Moonstone is the place for freestyle riders of every ability. Three terrain parks vary in size and difficulty, allowing for the perfect progression for aspiring and serious riders.

SkooL Yard TerrainPark is Moonstone’s freestyle “classroom” where new freestyle riders can learn on thicker and lower rails and boxes, mini bumps, rollers and a mellow quarter-pipe.

Junkyard TerrainPark, the first terrain park in Ontario to open each winter, has new features every season and hosts freestyle competitions.

Outback Ski/Snowboard Cross is reserved for the most advanced riders with an 18-foot-deep halfpipe, the longest rail in North America (over 40 metres/140 feet) and 60 other awesome features.

Mount St. Louis Moonstone lies in Ontario’s snow belt, and with Canada’s most advanced snowmaking equipment, the conditions are guaranteed to be good.

Treat yourself to a luxurious room and fine dining at nearby Rawley Resort & Spa or enjoy winter glamping in a cozy stargazing dome at Glen Oro Farm, just 15 minutes from the hill.

Location: R.R. 4, 24 Mt. St. Louis Road West, Coldwater

Lakeridge Ski Resort

Less than an hour from Toronto in the rolling hills of the Oak Ridges Moraine, this small resort delivers big thrills for freestyle riders. Lakeridge’s three terrain parks are built for every level of rider. The hill also boasts a snowcross track and half-pipe for more experienced shredders.

Choose from hotels in nearby Ajax or a cozy room at Chalet Claremont Bed & Breakfast, a short drive from the slopes. For drinks and dining after a day in the snow, Slabtown Cider Co. is just up the road, serving up stone oven-baked pizza and delicious heirloom apple cider.

Location: 790 Chalk Lake Road, Uxbridge

Dagmar Ski Resort

The terrain park at Dagmar is the largest in the Durham region and is designed for both beginner and advanced riders. With over 40 features including boxes, walls and bonks, this park provides endless fun.

Beyond the terrain park, the resort offers 18 family-friendly runs and an acclaimed snow school. Dagmar is just minutes away from Lakeridge, so you can hit both resorts on a weekend visit to the area.

Location: 1220 Lake Ridge Road, Uxbridge

Snowboarding hills for beginners

Ontario’s beginner-friendly hills, gentle slopes and outstanding snow schools are perfect for learning how to snowboard.

Antoine Mountain

Perched between two lofty peaks in the Laurentian Mountains, Antoine Mountain is an undiscovered gem with plenty of natural snowfall.

With stunning views of the Ottawa River Valley and Ontario’s longest run—an easy and scenic 2.9-kilometre cruiser aptly named Lookout—40% of the terrain is dedicated to beginners. A friendly snow school with private and semi-private snowboarding lessons for beginners will help you gain confidence on the slopes.

Antoine Mountain’s après offerings include a renovated chalet with live music every Saturday and heaping helpings of authentic poutine. Find accommodation options in North Bay, less than an hour’s drive away or stay local in the magical winter forest of Nature’s Harmony Ecolodge. Just 10 minutes from the hill, the ecolodge offers a unique array of log cabins, glamping domes and cozy yurts, along with a sauna and snow tubing.

Location: Highway 656, Mattawa

Mount Baldy

A family-run ski and snowboard near Thunder Bay, Mount Baldy has been operating for over 60 years.

A speedy new quad chair whisks riders to the top of Baldy’s 145-metre vertical drop. The hill’s 10 kilometres of slopes skew towards novice and intermediate riders, including a gentle1.6-kilometre-long hill just for beginners. Lessons are available for those looking to learn new tips and tricks.

Warm up in the chalet after your ride, then head into Thunder Bay for accommodations and dining. The historic Courthouse Hotel overlooks the city’s harbourfront.

Location: 375 Mount Baldy Road, Shuniah

Boogie Mountain

The friendly and welcoming vibes at Boogie Mountain make this family hill perfect for beginners and young riders. The hill offers 12 runs serviced by a T-bar and handle tow and two snow parks that welcome aspiring freestylers.

Where Boogie Mountain really shines is in its lesson programs, dedicated to making snowboarding accessible to new riders. Take advantage of evening snowboard lesson socials and a range of private and group instruction.

Après activities and accommodations are limited in Espanola. Enjoy the peace and natural beauty from a winterized lakefront cottage at Lake Apsey Resort or head to Sudbury (about 45 minutes away) for more hotel and dining options.

Location: Bass Lake Road, Espanola

Horseshoe Valley Resort

Nestled in a deep valley just north of Barrie, Horseshoe Valley Resort consistently ranks as one of the best hills in Ontario for learning how to snowboard.

The resort’s acclaimed Ski and Snowboard Snow School has over 100 instructors specializing in private lessons to take you from zero to hero in no time. With 29 beginner- and intermediate-friendly runs, there’s lots to explore once you leave the bunny hill. If you feel like trying a terrain park, the resort’s Outlaw Terrain Park consistently ranks as one of the best in the province.

Horseshoe offers other fun winter activities like snow tubing, fat biking, ice skating, Nordic skiing and snowmobiling, as well as a spa. There’s also convenient slopeside lodging—including newly renovated condos at the base of the hill—and great dining choices.

Location: 1101 Horseshoe Valley Road West, Barrie

Glen Eden

Perfect for beginners, Glen Eden is a small ski park with 12 trails, a terrain park and dining. 

The snow school offers new skiers and snowboarders private and group learning opportunities.

Location: 5234 Kelso Road, Milton

Adanac Ski Hill

This city-owned ski and snowboard area in the heart of Sudbury is a convenient and budget-friendly way to enjoy snowboarding. Full-day lift tickets to ride the five runs are available at affordable prices.

A designated beginner area and a snow school for all ages make this a great place for novice riders.

The city of Sudbury provides a lively après scene and diverse accommodation options. Stay near the hill at the Hilton Garden Inn or TownePlace Suites by Marriott or check in downtown at the Radisson Hotel Sudbury and enjoy local restaurants and pubs.

Location: 744 Beatrice Crescent, Greater Sudbury

Hockley Valley Resort

Set in the rolling hills near Caledon, this four-season resort is a popular destination for snowboarders from Toronto and the surrounding area.

Those new to the sport will find a dedicated beginner area with surface lifts, and lessons, 16 runs and a modest 114-metre vertical drop keep novice and intermediate riders happy.

Hockley Valley is just as much fun after dark, with night riding, an on-site spa, ski-in/ski-out lodging and outstanding restaurants.

Location: 793522 3rd Line EHS, Mono

Tri-Town Ski and Snowboard Village

Overlooking Lake Temiskaming, this Northern Ontario hill boasts over two kilometres of mellow, beginner-friendly slopes. Tri-Town is a volunteer-run, non-profit organization. Lift tickets and lessons at this winter playground are set at affordable prices.

Along with skiing and riding, you’ll also find snow tubing and snowshoeing trails for even more winter fun.

New Liskeard and Haileybury communities offer dining and accommodation options for out-of-town visitors. For convenience and comfort just minutes from the hill, stay at the Waterfront Inn or the lakeside Leisure Inn.

Location: West Timiskaming District

Where to rent equipment

On-site equipment rentals at most Ontario snowboarding hills and resorts make it easy for occasional riders to hit the slopes.

Rental packages typically include a snowboard, boots and helmet, with some hills also offering discounts on combined equipment rental and beginner lift ticket packages. Larger resorts like Blue Mountain also rent snowboarding jackets, pants and goggles.

To avoid disappointment, check if pre-booking and gear rental are required in advance.

In addition to slopeside equipment rentals, you’ll find a wide variety of rentals at independent ski and snowboard shops in Ontario’s top snowboarding destinations, such as:

Alpine Sports At Blue Mountain

Location: 796437 Grey County Road, The Blue Mountains

Banff Sport Collingwood

Location: 279 Mountain Road, Collingwood

Mountainside Sports

Location: 774 Mountain Road, The Blue Mountains

Rick’s Pro Ski Shop

Location: 796466 Grey County Road 19, The Blue Mountains

Exclusive Sport Rentals

Location: 8575 Keele Street, Concord

Ski Pro Shop

Location: 278 Geneva Street, St. Catharines

What to wear snowboarding

Before heading out on your snowboarding adventure, ensure you are dressed to stay warm, comfortable and ready to maximize your fun on the hill.

Dress in layers

Layers are the best way to regulate your temperature and stay comfortable. A quick-drying and moisture-wicking base layer worn next to your skin will keep you dry. A middle layer—synthetic fleeces or wool sweaters for example—will retain body heat and keep you warm. A wind- and waterproof outer layer will protect you from the elements. As a beginner, you’ll be spending a lot of time sitting and kneeling in the snow, so waterproof, durable snow pants are a must.

Keep your fingers and toes warm

Warm, waterproof gloves will keep your hands happy. Consider moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet toasty and dry inside your snowboard boots.

Your ears will get cold

A thin beanie or toque worn underneath your snowboard helmet will add extra coziness on the coldest days. For additional comfort, consider a neck warmer.

Goggles will make life easier

While not essential, goggles make it easier to see when there’s windblown snow, enhance definition on cloudy days and protect your eyes from the glare of the sun reflecting off the snow.

Wear a helmet

It’s important to stay safe. If you don’t own a snowboarding helmet, most rental packages in Ontario include a helmet along with your board and boots.

Protect your wrists

Wrist guards, available at sporting goods stores, protect your wrists during falls and can be worn inside your snowboarding gloves.

Snowboarding etiquette

Before snowboarding, learn the rules of the resort where you’re riding. But some basic guidelines applies everywhere.

Know which slopes are right for your skill level and snowboard only on those. If you find yourself on a slope that is too difficult, keep your snowboard on and sidestep down the hill.

Stay on marked paths and never go past the snowboard area boundary or into a closed area.

Pay attention to warning signs such as "Slow skiing area" and "Caution.”

Learn to stop before you ride at high speeds or on steeper hills.

Before you start down a hill or merge onto a trail, look uphill to make sure no one is coming towards you.

Skiers and snowboarders in front of you have the right of way. Keep your distance and stay in control. If you are higher up the slope and going faster than the person below, it is your responsibility to get past safely.

Never stop in the middle of a trail (move off to the side instead) or in any spot where you can't be seen from above, such as below a drop-off or in the landing zone of a jump.

Be courteous to the hill’s employees, other riders and skiers.