Skiing and Cottaging in Small Cities: A Comprehensive Guide

Imagine a small city or a large town where expansive ski mountains are just a short drive away, and pristine cottage country lakes await to soothe your soul. This article explores some hidden gems in both Canada and the United States that offer the perfect combination of winter wonderland and serenity in the great outdoors. Whether you are planning a ski getaway or a summer vacation, here are some excellent destinations that meet the criteria of being within an hour to three hours drive from the nearest large city.

Canada: Ottawa and Its Surrounding Areas

Located at the heart of Canada, Ottawa has many nearby options for skiers and cottagers. With over 30,000 people, this charming city offers a variety of experiences within a short drive.

Ottawa, being a capital city, has some central and accessible ski areas. Depending on your preferences, you can find smaller, cozy resorts in less than 45 minutes. Camp Fortune, for instance, is a cozy and not-so-big but offers decent pistes. Last Tuesday, the author spent a few hours here, arriving just 45 minutes after leaving the house. This resort sits just over five kilometers from the city, making it incredibly convenient. Within a one-hour drive, there are several larger ski areas for more adventurous skiers.

Further north, the Laurentians provide two hours of travel time with a range of 13 ski areas. The Eastern Townships of Quebec, the Adirondacks of New York, and the Green Mountains of Vermont are also prime destinations, all around three to three and a half hours away. Despite having lived in Ottawa for nearly 40 years, the author hasn't even scratched the surface of exploring all the ski options within easy reach.

New England: A Winter Retreat

The northeastern states of the United States, including Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, offer a wealth of experiences. Cities like Burlington in Vermont, Manchester in New Hampshire, and Augusta in Maine provide a gateway to some of the most picturesque ski areas and charming coastal lakes.

British Columbia: Modern Skiing and Cottage Lakes

British Columbia, Canada, is renowned for its diverse landscapes, and several cities and towns meet the criteria of having ski mountains close by while still providing access to rural cottages. Here are some attractions in and around major cities:

Vancouver Area: North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Burnaby, and Richmond, with a combined population of one million, offer three ski mountains practically within the city: Cypress Mountain, Seymour, and Grouse Mountain. Nanaimo: With a population of 131,000, this city is home to the Mt Washington ski resort. Kelowna: Population 106,000, offers Big White Ski Resort. Kamloops: Home to Sun Peaks with a population of 85,000. Comox and Courtney: Both with a population of 37,000, feature the Mt. Washington ski resort. Campbell River: Population 36,000, includes the Mt. Washington ski resort. Squamish: With a population of 17,000, it is home to Whistler/Blackcomb, one of the most popular ski resorts in North America. Revelstoke: Population 7,000, offers the largest ski resort in BC. Fernie: Population 5,000, is a personal favorite for its substantial vertical drops and fresh powder. Golden: Population 4,000, has Kickinghorse Resort and access to some of the best backcountry skiing.

In Alberta, smaller towns and cities provide a cozy atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings:

Canmore: Population 12,000, where Sunshine, Lake Louise, and Mt. Norquay ski areas are just a short drive away. Hinton: With a population of 12,000, Hinton offers stunning drives and ubiquitous cottage and lakeside experiences, with Marmot Basin just 1 hour 23 minutes away.

Whether you are a ski enthusiast or a cottager, these small cities and towns in Canada and the United States offer a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, making them perfect for your next getaway.