The Best Ski Resorts for Off-Piste in Ontario

Ontario's off-piste options might surprise you! While not blessed with the epic backcountry of western Canada, these resorts still offer adventurous terrain beyond the groomed runs. From hidden powder stashes to challenging glades, our community of skiers and boarders have tracked down the best spots for those willing to explore. This ranking showcases where you'll find the most rewarding off-piste experiences according to real riders who've carved these slopes.

Looking for different challenges? Check out our rankings for Tree Skiing, Powder Zones, or Advanced terrain. Been exploring Ontario's backcountry yourself? Share your experiences and help fellow riders find their perfect off-piste playground.

Best Ski Resort for Off-Piste in Ontario: Horseshoe Resort - Off-Piste Rating 3.54

Horseshoe Resort's off-piste terrain gets solid marks from our community. An advanced snowboarder, Joe Capone, calls it the "sickest resort" with great powder opportunities. The tree runs receive particular praise, with several users highlighting them as a standout feature. Though not comparable to western Canadian resorts like Banff according to one Snomad user, the off-piste areas provide enough challenge for advanced riders while remaining accessible. Some flat spots might frustrate snowboarders, but the overall experience remains positive. It's worth noting that while the resort excels for intermediate and family skiing, expert riders still find enough off-piste adventures to keep them coming back.

#2 Calabogie Peaks - Off-Piste Rating 3.22

Off-piste options at Calabogie Peaks offer a mixed experience for adventure seekers. An advanced skier in our community notes that the area has "decent elevation and variety of runs" with some "fun off-piste trails" worth exploring. Another Snomad user who snowboards mentioned enjoying the tree runs when conditions are good. While not extensive, several reviewers highlight that with enough snowfall, there are enjoyable off-piste opportunities to discover. Weekday visits might yield better experiences, as one user points out that the mountain feels more open and accessible then. For Ontario skiing, the off-piste areas provide a decent escape from the groomed runs.

#3 Blue Mountain - Off-Piste Rating 3.07

Blue Mountain's off-piste offerings get consistent praise from our Snomad community. A user who is an advanced snowboarder mentioned loving the glade runs on the Orchard Lift, while warning others to "be careful on the Elevator Shaft!" Despite being Ontario's largest ski resort rather than a Rocky Mountain giant, the terrain delivers for those seeking adventure. Tree runs score well with both beginners and experts alike. One intermediate skier noted you can "ski hours and not even have done half the runs." After heavy snowfall, the area gets particularly busy with boarders eager to shred through fresh powder.