Variable Winter Conditions: Quebec's Ski Areas Are Ready

As temperatures drop, much to the delight of skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, the Quebec Ski Areas Association (ASSQ) and its 72 members are actively preparing for the winter season. Used to unpredictable weather conditions, ski resorts will mobilize the necessary teams and technologies to provide excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions throughout the season.

“Ski resorts have the teams, expertise, and equipment needed to deliver a great season. They deal with changing weather conditions every year, and a winter that could hypothetically be influenced by El Niño is no exception. Skiers and snowboarders can rest assured that ski resorts will provide them with the best possible mountain experience,” says Josée Cusson, director of communications and marketing for the ASSQ.

Advanced technological equipment

Quebec’s ski areas invest a combined total of approximately $56 million annually in their facilities, particularly to acquire snowmaking systems and grooming equipment, to adapt to climate change and provide visitors with the best possible skiing conditions.

Many ski resorts are equipped with snowmaking technology that is now more efficient at milder temperatures, improving their efficiency in terms of water and energy consumption. In addition, specialized monitoring tools are used throughout the winter, while snowmaking plans and automated systems are implemented to make the most of cold-weather windows for snow production. Ski resorts also maintain their slopes using specially designed grooming equipment.

Closely monitoring weather conditions

The mild temperatures experienced in early November 2026 are not a cause for concern among ski area operators. “We’ve adapted our snowmaking plans over the years to ensure as many slopes are available to our guests during the holiday season,” explains Luc Élie, president of the ASSQ and owner of Mont Rigaud. “The beginning of the ski season remains a relatively minor period for ski resorts, accounting for just 5% of overall skier visits on average, according to data from the Economic and Financial Study of Quebec Ski Resorts.”

“The 2024 study conducted by Ouranos on the vulnerability of Quebec’s alpine skiing industry was clear: despite seasonal variability, winter conditions will remain a defining feature od Quebec’s climate through 2070. El Niño or not, there will be a winter this year and plenty of beautiful days on the slopes ahead” adds Josée Cusson. She also reminds skiers that weather conditions can differ significantly between urban areas and mountain resorts. It is therefore important to check the weather forecasts and slopes conditions at the resort you plan to visit, as well as consult the resort’s webcam.

What’s New for 2026–2027

New slopes, modernized lifts, investments in snowmaking equipement, enhanced learning areas, and new features for night skiing: Quebec’s ski areas are getting ready to welcome skiers and snowboarders with a host of new features for the 2026–2027 season.

Across Quebec, ski resorts are continuing to invest in improving the visitor experience, both on the slopes and at the base of the mountain. From the Eastern Townships to the Gaspé Peninsula, including the Laurentians, Lanaudière, and Charlevoix, discover the main new features announced for the upcoming winter season.

Québec ski areas Association has been working for over 40 years to represent and defend the interests of Quebec ski resorts. A non-profit organization, the ASSQ promotes snow sports, improves the customer experience, and supports the performance of resorts to ensure their sustainability. Thanks to initiatives such as Ski Passe-Partout, more than 40,000 young people each year are introduced to skiing and snowboarding free of charge and encouraged to adopt healthy lifestyles.

In the context of climate change, the ASSQ is expanding its mission by supporting the industry and the public in the evolution of resorts and mountain activities. It is committed to promoting a sustainable environment and supporting its members' adaptation to the new realities of the ski industry.