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Memphrémagog has long been known as a mecca for outdoor lovers and this year, more than ever, our region is proving to be a favourite venue for sporty types. After all, Memphrémagog is one of the most beautiful corners of the province – a veritable playground of nature’s making! There’s no better ‘recipe’ for mental and physical health than getting out in the fresh air, so bundle up and follow our recommendations for some great places to practice winter sports.
Few things are more invigorating than the adrenaline rush of swooshing down snowy slopes! We have two major ski centres where you can do just that – Mont Orford and Owl’s Head. Moreover, the stunning views from the mountain peaks will take your breath away…Whether you’re a skier or a snowboarder, these two ski centres will provide a day of excitement with thrilling memories for you and your family ‘bubble’! !
Mont-Orford
4380 chemin du Parc Orford, Orford
Access is currently being governed by what lifts are in operation and how many ski trails are open. Season pass (and other types of passes) are accepted. Sanitary measures in effect.
Owl’s Head sur le lac
40 chemin du Mont Owl’s Head, Mansonville
Day pass – available only online. Sanitary measures in effect.
If you’re looking for a more tranquil (but no less sporty) experience, why not go cross-country skiing? You’ll be spoiled for choice given the variety of trails on offer (some are groomed) and there’s a good chance you’ll spot some wildlife as you slide along. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, the following are some prime places to cross-country ski.
Centre de villégiature Jouvence
131, chemin de Jouvence, Orford
Free parking. Online reservation needed before your visit. Other activities available on site and included in the half-day. Tickets are on sale until the opening hour of the session or until they are sold out.
Mont Orford National Park
3321 chemin du Parc, Orford
Day passes available online only and they must be purchased a minimum of three days ahead of time. Season ticket holders will be given priority. Opening hours: 8am-5pm. Equipment rental: call 1-800-665-6527 at least 24 hours in advance.
Centre de Loisirs Quatre-Vallons
76 rue La Grande, Ste-Catherine-de-Hatley
18km of hilly, snowmobile trails. Opening hours: daily (depending on the weather) from 8am-4pm. No dogs allowed. Cost: adults $6 and children (aged 6-12) $3.
Fiducie Foncière Vallée Ruiter
Chemin Ruiter Brook, Mansonville
30km of maintained trails. No on-site facilities. Free access. Dogs allowed, but they must be on a leash.
Tomifobia Nature Trail
Ayer’s Cliff
The 20-km bike trail (not maintained), linking Stanstead with Ayer’s Cliff. Free access.
Route Verte
Eastman
7 kilometres of Quebec’s Route Verte (Green Route) is maintained during the winter, along a stretch of the Chemin des Diligences (Eastman) to the entrance of Mont Orford National Park. Free access
Uphill skiing (also known as skinning) is all the rage this year. But what is it exactly? It involves climbing to the top of mountain on foot (albeit with specialized equipment) instead of taking a ski lift! After scaling the heights, those brave enough (and fit enough) hurtle down a trail (or a virgin slope) to the base of the mountain – an exhilarating activity that leaves you with a feeling of accomplishment and pride! Here’s where you can safely practise uphill skiing.
Mont-Orford
4380 chemin du Parc Orford, Orford
Off-piste trails. For a map and rates, check Mont Orford’s website.
Looking for a simple family activity that doesn’t need fancy equipment? Why not go back to basics and enjoy some easy, traditional sledding? Armed with your snow carpets and saucers, head for Magog’s municipal boat ramp where you can slide and slither to your heart’s content. Fun and laughter guaranteed!
Centre de villégiature Jouvence
131, chemin de Jouvence, Orford
Free parking. Online reservation needed before your visit. Other activities available on site and included in the half-day. Tickets are on sale until the opening hour of the session or until they are sold out.
Municipal Boat Ramp
353 rue de Hatley, Magog
Maintained for sledding
Open Thursday and Friday, from 3:30pm-7pm and Saturday and Sunday, from 9am-6pm
Terrio Park
17, rue Terrio, Bolton-Est
A great place for a family outing! The park has a slide slope with a nearby gazebo. There are picnic tables inside and it’s enclosed with a covering to shelter you from the winter weather. There’s also a themed walk around the site with clues leading you from one spot to the next.
Winter lovers – enjoy this selection of outdoor activities in our region! In these constrained times, it’s great to be able to play in the fresh air, amid our magnificent mountains and scenic trails. Throughout 2021, we’ll have more suggestions for you, so stay tuned.
