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Where the mountain meets the ocean Buy tickets
Friends in winter gear relaxing in Adirondack chairs at the summit, raising a drink above the ocean

On the hill

First time at Smokey?

Your first visit. Every season. A mountain above the ocean. A first visit can be a ride above the Atlantic, a walk to Hawley Lake or your first turns on snow. Choose your season and make Smokey your own.

Choose your season

Gondola cabins over bright red and orange autumn forest

Summer

Start with the view.

Gondola rides, trails, lake days and time outdoors.

Plan your summer visit
Snowboarder carving a groomed run above the ocean bay

Winter

Start with your first turns.

Snow School, snowy trails and a mountain above the ocean.

Plan your winter visit

Plan your first visit

A little planning.
More time to experience Smokey.

Book online before you travel and check the day’s hours, weather and open activities. Arrive at the base with your booking confirmation and everything you need for your chosen adventure.

Check hours & conditions
Aerial view of snowy ski runs cut through frosted forest on Cape Smokey

explore more &

plan your visit
on snow

Summer // your first day on the hill

Begin with the gondola. From the summit, choose a relaxed visit, a trail to the lake or a day exploring by bike. You set the pace.

SUMMER CHECKLIST  /  Walking shoes · Water · Sun protection · A weatherproof layer · Snacks for longer outings

Winter // find your feet

Snow School instructor kneeling to help a young skier on the beginner slope

New to skiing
or snowboarding?

Start with Cape Smokey Snow School. An instructor helps you get comfortable with your equipment, practise stopping and turning, and build confidence in the Learning Zone.

The Magic Carpet introduces you to a gentle beginner lift. Progress onto suitable open runs when your instructor feels you are ready.

Prefer a day without skiing? A Snowshoe Day Pass includes snowshoes and one gondola ride up and down. Check weather and route access before setting out.

Explore snow school ↗
  1. 01 / Choose your lesson

    Private ski and snowboard lessons offer individual guidance. Explore ticket + lesson + rental options and check current inclusions before booking.

  2. 02 / Get your gear

    Rental sets include skis or a snowboard, boots and a helmet, with poles for skiing. Follow your confirmation and leave time for fitting.

  3. 03 / Meet & start small

    Meet your instructor as directed in your booking. Start in the Learning Zone and move to terrain that matches your ability.

Winter // dress for the mountain

Warm layers.
Room to move.

  • Base layer — wool or synthetic; avoid cotton next to your skin.
  • Mid layer — fleece or light insulation for warmth.
  • Outer layer — waterproof jacket and snow pants for coastal wind and snow.
  • Feet & hands — one pair of ski socks, plus warm waterproof gloves or mittens.
  • Head & face — helmet, goggles and a neck gaiter. A helmet is included with rentals.
Skier with poles standing on a snowy summit above the frozen bay and ocean

FAQ // first visit

Do I need to ski or hike to enjoy Smokey?
No. Choose a scenic visit, summer activities or a snowy adventure. Check the ticket options and activity availability for your date.
How do I plan a summer lake visit?
Bring walking shoes, water and layers for the 5 km round-trip hike. Allow time for the trail, your lake stop and the last gondola ride.
Where should a first-time skier start?
Book a lesson and start with your instructor in the Learning Zone. The gondola does not make every run suitable for beginners.
Can I buy tickets and rentals on arrival?
Purchases are online only. Arrange your booking before your visit and follow the confirmation instructions.
How early should I arrive for a lesson?
Follow the arrival time in your lesson confirmation and allow extra time for parking, check-in and equipment fitting.
Where are the washrooms?
Washrooms are in the lodge at the base. There are no washrooms at the summit, so plan ahead before going uphill.

Your first Smokey memory starts here.

Choose your season. Bring your curiosity. We will see you on the mountain.

Around the hill // Your day, your season

A day at Smokey

From summer trails to winter turns. Two ways to spend a memorable day above the Atlantic.

Aerial view of Cape Smokey’s green ski runs and summit base above a wide blue bay

Summer

Take the scenic route.

Ride above the coast, wander to Hawley Lake and make time for the little moments in between.

Gondola · Hiking · Hawley Lake

  1. Atlantic Gondola cabin climbing above green forest with the bay and islands behind

    01 / Arrival

    Start above the Atlantic

    Take the gondola to the summit. Let the coastline unfold beneath you, then pause for your first mountain view.

  2. Hiker with a white Samoyed dog on a forest trail

    02 / Morning

    Follow the trail to Hawley Lake

    Set out on the 5 km round-trip hike. Take your time along the trail and leave room for a peaceful break by the lake.

  3. Kayaker paddling across a calm lake ringed by forest

    03 / Midday

    A little time on the water

    Enjoy a kayaking on Hawley Lake.
    Prefer dry land? Stay lakeside and soak up the unreal scenery.

  4. Plate of lobster held up by the water at sunset

    04 / Afternoon

    Taste the regional food, then enjoy the sunset by the ocean

    Return from the lake and stop for lunch at The Cape. Add a round of summit mini golf before your final gondola ride.