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The resort operates under a long-term lease on land within the Parc du Mont-Orford, which ensures its immediate surroundings retain a wild feeling. In fact, that wild feeling extends to much of Orford"s terrain. At first glance this may not be obvious, but the mountain has a reputation for steep shots and tight trees that becomes more evident the more you poke around. The trails and trees drop over 1700 vertical feet at their greatest, and are draped from the top of three peaks: Mont Orford, the highest; Mont Alfred-DesRochers, and Mont Giroux. The last named has terrain on two sides, so there are four distinct faces from which to choose. However, your choice will depend on your ability. The tallest peak, Mont Orford, has one green (more than 4 kilometers long) and one blue trail from the summit, and nearly all the blacks and double blacks here eventually fade into blue. But the greatest choice of beginner and intermediate terrain is found on Mont Alfred-DesRochers and Mont Giroux. The upper half of Mont Orford itself and the east side of Mont Giroux are home to the most difficult terrain. The two peaks boast a total of 13 glades, steep cruisers, big mogul runs, and various tight and testing shots. All the terrain, easy or not, is served by an efficient lift system which includes six chairs and two surface lifts. The main lodge and base complex houses all services, including day care, rentals, and a retail shop. In addition to the cafeteria, there"s a restaurant and bar. Lodging may be found at Mont Orford"s village at the base of Mont Giroux"s east side, or in the area. The resort is just over an hour from Montreal and about 20 minutes from Sherbrooke. In the adjacent provincial park there are 50 kilometers of cross-country trails and another ten km of snowshoe trails.
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Ski Report
Quebec