Family weekend in the Eastern Townships: 8 ideas, summer and winter
An hour from Montreal, the Eastern Townships are perfect for a family weekend: a big zoo, two national parks, ski mountains and free activities by Lake Memphremagog. Here are eight ideas by season.
In short: in summer, Granby Zoo and the beach at Yamaska National Park; in winter, the Magog ice trail and skiing in Bromont or Orford.
Granby and Bromont
1. Granby Zoo
Nearly 1,500 animals from 193 species, a mini-farm and a rides park. In summer, the Amazoo water park adds slides and water play: plan a full day.
- 1050, boulevard David-Bouchard Nord, Granby
- See the listing
2. Yamaska National Park
Right next to the zoo, around a large reservoir: swimming, pedal boats, canoes and cycling in summer; snowshoeing, sledding and ice fishing in winter. Free for ages 17 and under.
- 1780, boulevard David-Bouchard, Roxton Pond
- See the listing
3. Bromont, montagne d'expériences
About a hundred lit runs for night skiing in winter, and a water park in summer.
- 150, rue Champlain, Bromont
- See the listing
Magog and Orford
4. Magog Ice Trail
A 2.8 km ice trail in four loops, lit at night, with heated chalets. Free, parking included.
- 58, rue Cabana, Magog
- See the listing
5. Mont-Orford National Park
Beach, canoeing, pedal boats and hiking in summer; snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and fat biking in winter. Camping at Lac Stukely to stay longer.
- 3321, chemin du Parc, Orford
- See the listing
6. Mont-Orford ski resort
Three mountains and runs winding through the forest, with panoramic gondolas.
- 4380, chemin du Parc, Orford
- See the listing
Sutton and Sherbrooke
7. Mont Sutton
A resort known for glade skiing and its village atmosphere.
- 671, rue Maple, Sutton
- See the listing
8. Sherbrooke Nature and Science Museum
The indoor outing for a rainy day: the interactive Sève exhibit and its challenges that feed the Tree of Knowledge.
- 225, rue Frontenac, Sherbrooke
- See the listing
Frequently asked questions
What can families do for free in the Eastern Townships?
The Magog Ice Trail is free in winter. At Yamaska and Mont-Orford national parks, access is free for ages 17 and under.
Where to stay for a family weekend?
Mont-Orford and Yamaska national parks offer camping and cabins, handy for combining nature and activities.
What to do in the Eastern Townships on a rainy day?
The Sherbrooke Nature and Science Museum is the ideal indoor option.
Information checked on October 12, 2026. Prices and hours may change: confirm with each place before you go.
