Embracing the Slopes of Life: My Eastern Canadian Winter Quest Amidst Cancer Treatment

Life, much like skiing, is filled with unexpected twists and turns. As the slopes get steeper in my personal life, I am setting on the ambitious journey of conquering five major mountains in Eastern Canada. Thankfully, my treatment allows for rest periods, during which, I can ski! I’m setting my sights on Le Massif, Mont St-Anne, Mont Tremblant, Orford, and Owls Head.

1. Le Massif – Vertical Drop: 770m, Skiable Acres: 405, Number of Runs: 57, Top Elevation: 806m

Located in Charlevoix, Quebec, Le Massif offers an incredible view of the St. Lawrence River. It has the largest vertical drop east of the Rockies and uniquely “starts” at the top. So when the day ends, you’ll find yourself ascending via a chair lift to the parking lot.

2. Mont St Anne – Vertical Drop: 625m, Skiable Acres: 547, Number of Runs: 71, Top Elevation: 800m

My visit to Mont St Anne will coincide with Le Massif since they are very close. Given that the Le Massif pass includes Mont St Anne, I will compare and contrast the differences between them.

3. Mont Tremblant – Vertical Drop: 645m, Skiable Acres: 755, Number of Runs: 103, Top Elevation: 875m

Mont Tremblant feels like home. During the peak of the pandemic in 2020-2021, I showed up almost every weekend, often meeting my buddies there. The limited capacity led to nearly non-existent lift lines, a silver lining in those trying times. Those memories made me renew my pass for 2021-2022 without a second thought. As I aim to explore new terrains this year, I’ll also be revisiting and diving deeper into the areas of this mountain that I am so familiar with.

4. Orford – Vertical Drop: 589m, Skiable Acres: 245  Number of Runs: 61, Top Elevation: 850m

My 2020 trip to Orford was awesome. While the runs might be shorter compared to Tremblant or the two above mountains, they have a distinct charm. Orford, with its three peaks, offers diverse skiing experiences, including some damn steep tree skiing. As you can see in this photo above, I was very careful when mapping my runs here.

5. Owls Head – Vertical Drop: 540m, Skiable Acres: 163, Number of Runs: 50, Top Elevation: 756m

Owls Head’s 540m vertical drop is on the lower end of this list, but it’s the lakeside views that intrigue me. The 50 runs, diverse in their appeal, grant panoramic views of Lake Memphremagog. Since I’m least acquainted with this hill, I am excited to try something completely new.

This year, as I pivot away from the allure of the West due to my health challenges and the risk of getting on airplanes, I’m embracing the underrated treasures in my own backyard. Stay tuned to read more of my adventures this ski season and for some reviews of my experiences.