Updated July 14, 2021
While skiing may not be the first thing you think of when you’re trying to figure out what to do in Kitchener, ON, the city is actually a prime location to do some shredding. Ontario has an almost overwhelming amount of ski resorts to choose from, so we’ve narrowed down the list to 18 of our favourites. For the best spots to go snowboarding and skiing near Kitchener, read on!
Our Favourite Places to Go Snowboarding and Skiing Near Kitchener, ON
Blue Mountain
- Distance from Kitchener: 154 km (~2 hours)
- Accommodations Available: Yes, at the Blue Mountain Resort
- Experience Level: All levels
Located in one of the most picturesque areas of Ontario, Blue Mountain has 43 trails (30 for night use) across 364 skiable acres. Described by many as the “perfect Canadian getaway,” Blue Mountain Resort is a truly gorgeous winter escape for snowboarding and skiing near Kitchener.
For when you’re not shredding the slopes, the resort boasts an indoor tennis court and is close to several cute, small mountain towns with local shops and restaurants. During the holidays, the resort gets totally decked out in adorable lights and decorations. (Did we mention it’s an amazing place for a winter getaway?!)
Chicopee
- Distance from Kitchener: 8 km (~15 minutes)
- Accommodations Available: No
- Ability Level: All levels
Chicopee is a small area to go snowboarding and skiing near Kitchener. Clocking in at just 15 minutes away from the city, the resort’s 14 trails are a day and night attraction for winter sports lovers. The resort was a pioneer for club skiing; it was started in the 1930’s by a group called “Dutch Companee,” making a name for itself in the area across generations. For beginners, there’s a snow school where you can opt to take lessons.
Locals love Chicopee because it’s so close to Kitchener and is considered to be an “inner city gem.” It’s also considered to be an important part of Kitchener’s history, and is owned by a local non-profit organization. You can even see views of the city from the top of the hill!
Lakeridge
- Distance from Kitchener: 154 km (~1 hour, 40 minutes)
- Accommodations Available: No, but several options in nearby Uxbridge
- Ability Level: All levels
Lakeridge is one of the closer ski resorts near Kitchener, perfect for a day trip or even an afternoon of playing hooky on the slopes. With 23 trails over 70 acres of skiable terrain, it’s a pretty small resort that has beginner to advanced slopes. Here, you can go skiing, snowboarding, and tubing – there are designated areas for each sport within the park. Some even say that Lakeridge had the first ski tow in the Greater Toronto Area!
Not only is Lakeridge easily accessible from Kitchener, but it’s also one of the most affordable places to ski. Locals can purchase special coupon booklets with vouchers, or take advantage of lots of Groupon deals for the resort. Visitors love that the resort is friendly for beginners and first-timers, but has smooth progressions to challenge yourself and build your skills. Also note that it can get icy during the coldest days, so be sure to check the daily snow conditions on their website before planning a trip.
Snow Valley
- Distance from Kitchener: 176 km (~2 hours, 10 minutes)
- Accommodations Available: No, but several options in nearby Barrie
- Ability Level: All levels, family-oriented and beginner-friendly
Snow Valley is a tiny ski resort – just 40 skiable acres – located about 2 hours from Kitchener. This recreational area is more of a ski hill and less of a full-scale resort, but it’s beloved by locals and visitors nonetheless.
Named as Ontario’s best ski hill for kids by Ski Canada Magazine, Snow Valley’s emphasis is on beginners and family skiing. In fact, there’s a special 2-hour discount pass, the Family Value Pack, designed specifically for families with young kids. The resort boasts one of the largest ski schools in Ontario. There’s also snow tubing, snowshoeing, and other winter sports available on site.
Mount St. Louis Moonstone
- Distance from Kitchener: 200 km (~2 hours, 10 minutes)
- Accommodations Available: No, but many options nearby
- Ability Level: All levels
As one of the largest family owned resorts in Ontario, Mount St. Louis Moonstone is one of the most adored ski resorts near Kitchener. On site, they’ve got 36 trails across 2 mountains that are a mix of easy, intermediate, and difficult. And snowboarders, you’re in luck here, as the resort has special coaching programs just for you (sorry skiers, but you get a lot of love elsewhere).
Visitors like Mount St. Louis for its progressive trails that make learning easy. With 8 parks across various experience levels, it’s a fantastic place to learn new skills or practice. There’s also night skiing so you can extend the amount of time you’re on the slopes well into the evening hours. Note that while the resort makes every effort to maintain and groom trails, the weather here can often be windy and rainy, causing slopes to be icy sometimes.
Hidden Valley Highlands
- Distance from Kitchener: 300 kilometers (~3 hours, 10 minutes)
- Accommodations Available: Yes, at Hidden Valley Resort
- Ability Level: All levels
Hidden Valley Highlands is a small, family-friendly, charming ski resort located around 3 hours from Kitchener. Here, you can find 15 trails, most of which are rated as intermediate level. There’s also a ski school for kids and adults, including a fantastic beginner deal called Discover Skiing/Snowboarding, which provides discounts on rentals, lessons, and lift tickets.
The resort is close to the mountain, making it ideal for those wanting to spend a lot of time on the slopes. Night skiing is available on all of the trails as well. Visitors love the well-groomed trails and snowmaking, which means fresh powder more often than not.
Horseshoe Valley
- Distance from Kitchener: 191 km (~2 hours, 10 minutes)
- Accommodations Available: Yes, at Horseshoe Valley Resort
- Experience Levels: All levels, mostly difficult
Horseshoe Valley is a winter lover’s paradise – this resort offers the best of skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking, and tubing to intrepid city dwellers. At just over 2 hours from the city, Horseshoe Valley is a beloved spot for snowboarding and skiing near Kitchener. As one of the larger ski resorts in Ontario, there are a mix of trails across 57 acres ranging from easy to expert-level.
With a ski school and several non-skiing/snowboarding resort amenities, there’s a ton to do here on and off the slopes. To get the most for your money, you can get great deals on lift tickets with their Double Play discount. Most people who visit Horseshoe Valley like it because it’s easy to get to and affordable, and has something for everyone, even first-timers and non-skiers.
Batawa Ski Hill
- Distance from Kitchener: 265 km (~3 hours, 15 minutes)
- Accommodations Available: No
- Experience Levels: All levels, mostly difficult
If you don’t mind driving a little further (approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes), you’ll find yourself at Batawa Ski Hill. Self-described as a “small hill” with “big heart”, this ski hill packs a punch. Out of 12 trails, only 2 are green, meaning you can do some serious leveling-up here. There are also 2 terrain parks for those looking to practice their tricks. There are no accommodations onsite, but you can grab a burger with your buddies at the onsite Batawa Grill.
City of Toronto Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding Centres
- Distance from Kitchener: 102 km (~1 hour, 30 minutes)
- Accommodations Available: No, but several options in Toronto
- Experience Levels: All levels
Interested in getting into snowboarding or skiing, but not sure where to start? Check out the City of Toronto’s two downhill skiing and snowboarding centres. One is at Centennial Park and one is at Earl Bales Park. You can sign up for 8-week programs or individual lessons, and you can combine your lessons with equipment rental packages to make sure you have everything you need to start strong. The courses cover everything from first-timers to those looking to become instructors, so even if you’ve been around the block (or the hill) a few times, you may surprise yourself and learn something new!
Hockley Valley
- Distance from Kitchener: 80 km (~1 hour, 15 minutes)
- Accommodations Available: Yes, the Hockley Valley Resort
- Ability Level: All levels
Just over an hour from Kitchener, Hockley Valley is an easy day trip or weekend getaway for frolicking in the snow. While it’s a smaller resort with just 16 trails, Kitchener locals love it because it’s so close to the city and has extended night skiing hours, perfect for an after-work ski or snowboard session. There are trails ranging from bunny hills to double black diamonds, so you know a day of skiing here will have something for everyone.
We love promoting businesses that care about sustainability, and Hockley Valley embodies these values to a T. Their goal is to become the greenest ski resort in Ontario and has many ongoing initiatives to back that up. While the resort is often seen as “no frills,” it’s a great, close option for snowboarding or skiing near Kitchener.
Beaver Valley Ski Club
- Distance from Kitchener: 120 km (~1 hour, 40 minutes)
- Accommodations Available: No
- Ability Level: All levels
A hidden gem to go snowboarding or skiing near Kitchener, Beaver Valley is a private ski club, meaning you’ll need a club membership in order to hit the slopes. Beaver Valley entices members with its family-friendly options, including kids and teen programming, as well as its options for socializing amongst other club members.
A membership will allow you to access the 20 trails, as well as 12km of nordic ski trails, but there are other perks as well. Some of these include yoga and pilates classes, snowshoeing, formal galas, plenty of après options, and movie nights. This is definitely not one of the cheapest options on the list but if you can swing it, you’ll enjoy uncrowded hills and short lift lines all season long.
Glen Eden
- Distance from Kitchener: 55 km (~40 minutes)
- Accommodations Available: No
- Ability Level: All levels, mostly beginner and intermediate
Located just 40 minutes from Kitchener, Glen Eden Resort is a fantastic family-friendly choice for beginner skiers. This small resort consists of just 12 trails across 10 acres, ranging from beginner to advanced. Beginner snowboarders and skiers can opt to participate in the CORE program, which caters to first-time riders.
Because of its proximity to Kitchener, Glen Eden is perfect for a day trip or an afternoon on the slopes. The prices here are reasonable compared to the larger resorts, making skiing here especially attractive for locals and beginners. In addition to downhill skiing, you can try snowshoeing and nordic skiing as well.
Mansfield Ski Club
- Distance from Kitchener: 108 km (~1 hour, 30 minutes)
- Accommodations Available: No, but some options in nearby Mulmur
- Ability Level: All levels, mostly intermediate and advanced
Mansfield is one of the most beloved, small ski resorts near Kitchener, with plenty of skiing and snowboarding trails for all levels. Started in the 60’s, the resort was known originally as “Mansfield Skiways.” Ever since, it has been a ski club focused in its members. At just 1.5 hours from the city, Mansfield Ski Club is an easy day trip or weekend getaway for those wanting to hit the slopes. On site, there are 17 trails, the majority of which cater to intermediate and advanced level skiers and snowboarders.
Visitors and locals love Mansfield Ski Club for its impeccably groomed trails, private, exclusive vibe, and social atmosphere. You can also try snowshoeing and snow biking here if you’re looking for a change of scenery.
Brimacombe
- Distance from Kitchener: 184 km (~2 hours)
- Accommodations Available: No, but the Holiday Inn Bowmanville is nearby
- Ability Level: All levels
Brimacombe is a fantastic option for snowboarding and skiing near Kitchener. With 23 runs across all levels and 300 feet of vertical, there’s something for everyone. Adrenaline junkies can practice their tricks in 2 terrain parks, and if you don’t want the day to end, enjoy night skiing on 11 runs. Beginners should make note of the mountain’s Discover Packages, which include a lift ticket, equipment rentals, and a lesson, all for one convenient price.
Devil’s Glen
- Distance from Kitchener: 123 km (~1 hour, 45 minutes)
- Accommodations Available: No, but some options in nearby Duntroon
- Ability Level: All levels
Another private ski club, Devil’s Glen is located under 2 hours from Kitchener. Family is huge with the crowd at Devil’s Glen, with plenty of membership options available for families at all stages of life. Young skiers can enjoy racing and learning in a team environment, as well as learning the ropes at the snow school (which has programs for all ages as well). The northeastern exposure of the valley means that there will be lots of snow just waiting for those first tracks all season long. Take your pick of 24 trails across all levels, and after a long day on the slopes, enjoy the socialization opportunities that come with being a member.
Caledon Ski Club
- Distance from Kitchener: 58 km (~1 hour)
- Accommodations Available: No
- Ability Level: All levels
A membership at Caledon Ski Club means access to 25 exclusive trails spread across 55 acres. One of the biggest draws is the ski school, which has produced athletes who have gone on to compete both nationally and internationally, including in the Olympics. Another perk of club membership means access to 50+ social events held throughout the year. Thanks to its favourable microclimate, Caledon is able to open a lot sooner in the season than many other Southern Ontario hills. At just over an hour from the city, Caledon is a great option for snowboarding or skiing near Kitchener.
Boler Mountain
- Distance from Kitchener: 119 km (~1 hour, 15 minutes)
- Accommodations Available: No
- Ability Level: All levels
For the budget-conscious among us, Boler Mountain may be the ski hill for you! (Emphasis on the word “hill” here.) What Boler lacks in vertical it makes up for in convenience and great deals. Look out for discounts for university students, snow school students, and night skiers. With 16 runs and a tube park, it’s not a bad option for snowboarding and skiing near Kitchener!
Osler Bluff Ski Club
- Distance from Kitchener: 134 km (~2 hours)
- Accommodations Available: No
- Ability Level: All levels
A haven for “like-minded people”, Osler Bluff Ski Club boasts 20 runs spread across 130 acres. The hill has 745 feet of vertical, some of Ontario’s highest! As a private club, there are also socializing opportunities, from buffet dinners to themed après. If you want to get your heart racing, check out the 6.5 acre terrain park, complete with a competition-sized halfpipe. Not your style? There are also 27 km of nordic and snowshoe trails to enjoy.
Additional Resources for Snowboarding and Skiing Near Kitchener, ON
What to Pack:
- Waterproof outerwear – Possibly the most critical pieces of clothing for your ski trip packing list is durable, waterproof outerwear. Burton and Helly Hansen are famous ski brands for having best-in-class clothing that will keep you warm in the coldest, snowiest conditions. Click here to shop ski jackets and compare prices.
- Thermal layers – Thermal baselayers are absolutely critical for a smooth skiing experience, as these will keep you warm and dry underneath your outerwear. The best kinds of thermal baselayers are made of Merino wool, which is moisture-wicking and comfortable. Our favorite brand of thermal layers is SmartWool – their tops and leggings are soft, lightweight, but warm and durable for all kinds of outdoor activities, including skiing. Click here to shop thermal tops and leggings and compare prices.
- Ski goggles – No ski trip packing list would be complete without a pair of fog-resistant ski goggles, especially if you’re going somewhere that makes artificial snow. Ski slopes often have snow blowing into the air several times a day and it can be hard to keep freezing snowflakes out of your eyes, even during clear days. We use and recommend these ski goggles. However, you can shop ski goggles and compare reviews/prices here.
If you’re looking for a more comprehensive list of things to pack,read our guide on What to Wear Skiing & Snowboarding and our Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List to view our full packing list and gear recommendations for the slopes!