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At the Heart of the Province 

Did you know that the FQME has two backcountry ski areas just a short drive from the beautiful city of Québec? This is your chance to combine a cultural getaway with an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Enjoy stunning views, family-friendly activities and unique accommodations. With yurts and cabins available, you can easily turn your trip into a full destination weekend. 

At a glance
  • 2 TO 4 DAYS
  • 2 MOUNTAINS
  • 4 DIFFERENT SKI SECTORS
  • PARTNER ACCOMMODATION
  • TOTAL VERTICAL: 913M+/2995’
  • LOOP FROM OTTAWA: 10H40, 964KM
  • DEPARTURE FROM MONTREAL: 7H20, 607KM
  • DEPARTURE FROM Plattsburgh, NY: 9H, 485 MILES 

Day 1 – Centre Castor

Located just 30 minutes from Old Québec—a UNESCO World Heritage site with over 400 years of history—Centre Castor is a perfect introduction to backcountry skiing. Situated on the Valcartier military base, Centre Castor offers a wide range of winter activities, including backcountry skiing on Mont Brillant, a former ski resort. It’s an ideal spot for a few relaxed laps at the end of the day or for a first powder skiing experience. With a vertical drop of 254 m, the terrain features several beginner and intermediate runs. FQME members receive 15% off yurt rentals, making it easy to stay a few nights and enjoy the site to the fullest. This is a great, family-friendly destination—why not try other activities during your visit, such as cross-country skiing, fat biking, tubing, or snowshoeing?

centre castor

Partner accommodation 

Yurts nearby! 

Centre Castor offers FQME members 15% off winter stays in one of its 10 on-site yurts. Book your stay now at the Valcartier Yurt Village and enjoy a cozy outdoor experience. 

yourte centre castor

Day 2 – Vallée-Bras-du-Nord (Gravité sector)

Easily accessible from the parking lot, the Gravité sector at Vallée-Bras-du-Nord offers several unique couloirs, lines and ridges for intermediate to expert skiers and riders. Some gladed runs are quite open while others require more technical skills. With a wide selection of terrain, there’s more than enough to fill a full day of adventure.

Day 3 – Vallée-Bras-du-Nord (Hauteur and Sommets sectors)

Advanced and expert skiers only! On day three, step up the challenge. After a good night’s rest in one of the on-site cabins, you’ll be ready to tackle more demanding terrain. The Hauteur sector offers steep, technical lines, while the Sommet sector is slightly more accessible, with a mix of intermediate and advanced glades. What makes these sectors truly special is the longer approach (approximately 4 km/2.5 miles), rewarding you with untouched powder. Along the way, cross a frozen lake and take in breathtaking views. In the mountains, glades are carefully maintained for a more engaging skiing experience. If you prefer, you can always continue progressing in the Gravité sector with its many descent options. Why not stay another night?

Plan your backcountry adventures in just a few clicks