Get started in the snowpark

The snowpark can be a super fun playground where challenges and freestyle expression mix — but we get it, trying it for the first time can feel a bit intimidating.

To help take the mystery out of it and give you some safe, confidence-boosting tips, we chatted with the Team OFR competition crew and the founders of the Chèvres de montagne.

Here are their best tips to help you explore the snowpark safely — and have a blast doing it.

At Mont-Orford, we’re lucky to have three snowparks. Thanks to the crew from Delight Snowparks, all of them are designed to help you progress.

The Discovery Park, accessible from the Accès trail, features the easiest, smallest features — perfect for taking the edge off and building confidence in a more manageable space.

Pro tip: Don’t be shy about watching others from the side. Once you’ve picked up a few tricks, practice them a few times, get comfy with them, and then you’ll feel ready to take on the next park!

And a quick tip from the team: keep your eyes looking forward to help you stay balanced.

Know the Snowpark Etiquette

Just like on the slopes, there’s some etiquette to follow in the park. You’ll find signs at the top — take a quick minute to read them!

Here are a few tips from our crew:

Before hitting a feature, let people around you know it’s your turn.
Always look uphill before dropping in. If you’re with your kiddo, help keep an eye on traffic for them.
After hitting a feature, move out of the landing zone to the side so others can go.
And of course — be courteous!

Gear Up Right

It goes without saying that a helmet is mandatory in the snowpark, no matter how small the features are! Wearing fitted clothing also helps you move better and stay comfortable. Choose skis or a board that suits your level — something stable and easy to control. Avoid super sharp edges, as they’re not ideal on park features.

If you’re more advanced and want some extra protection, consider adding a back protector too.

Beyond having good gear, it’s important to check the layout before you go for it. Look at the size of the features, the spacing between them, and how the conditions look on the snow. Often, the morning offers the best snow, especially if you’re new to the park — so do your recon early!

One of the best ways to level up? Take a lesson! After trying a few features in the Discovery or Family Park, if you’re finding it hard to stay in control or aren’t sure how to push it further, a lesson is always a great idea.

Whether it’s with Team OFR’s certified coaches, a freeride intro with the Chèvres de montagne, or an Orford Extrême class from the Mont-Orford Snow School, it’s the perfect way to build skills — and confidence!