Le Massif Cancels Season Cancellation, Reopens After Resolving Labor Dispute
Le Massif de Charlevoix has resumed operations following successful negotiations between resort management and its workers' union, bringing relief to skiers and snowboarders who faced closures during one of the busiest periods of the winter season.
The agreement, finalized after several days of intensive bargaining, addresses key concerns raised by resort employees regarding wages, working conditions, and benefits. Both parties expressed satisfaction with the outcome, which allows the iconic Charlevoix region resort to welcome guests back to its slopes overlooking the St. Lawrence River.
"We are pleased to have reached a fair agreement that recognizes the valuable contributions of our team members while ensuring the long-term sustainability of Le Massif," resort management said in a statement announcing the reopening. "Our employees are the backbone of the guest experience, and this agreement reflects our commitment to them."
The labor dispute had resulted in a temporary closure of the resort, forcing the cancellation of lessons, guided activities, and normal lift operations during what should have been a peak revenue period. The timing proved particularly challenging as the resort typically attracts strong visitation during January, when snowfall is abundant and families take advantage of winter school breaks.
Le Massif, located approximately 90 kilometers northeast of Quebec City in the Charlevoix region, is known for offering the highest vertical drop east of the Canadian Rockies at 770 meters. Its dramatic setting, with slopes descending toward the St. Lawrence River, makes it one of Eastern Canada's most distinctive ski destinations and a key economic driver for the surrounding communities.
The workers' union, representing lift operators, ski patrol, food service staff, rental shop employees, and other operational personnel, had sought improvements in compensation packages to address rising living costs in the region and to bring wages more in line with comparable resorts. Working conditions, particularly regarding shift scheduling and seasonal employment terms, were also central to the negotiations.
While specific terms of the agreement were not publicly disclosed, both sides indicated the deal includes wage adjustments, improved benefits, and modifications to scheduling practices. The contract is expected to cover multiple years, providing stability for both the workforce and management as they plan for future seasons.
The resolution comes at a critical time for Quebec's ski industry, which has faced mounting challenges including climate variability, labor shortages across the hospitality sector, and increased operational costs. Attracting and retaining qualified staff has emerged as one of the most significant issues facing ski resorts across the province and throughout North America.
Le Massif's labor situation had been closely watched by other Quebec ski resorts and industry observers, as workforce challenges are shared across the sector. The successful resolution demonstrates that mutually beneficial agreements can be reached even amid the financial pressures facing mountain resort operations.
The resort, which operates under the ownership of Groupe Le Massif, has invested significantly in infrastructure improvements in recent years, including snowmaking enhancements and facility upgrades. Those capital investments depend on reliable operations and a stable, motivated workforce to deliver return on investment.
Local businesses in the Charlevoix region, which rely heavily on ski tourism during winter months, welcomed news of the reopening. Hotels, restaurants, and service providers in communities including Baie-Saint-Paul and La Malbaie depend on visitor traffic generated by Le Massif's operations.
Season pass holders and guests with advance reservations were notified of the reopening through email and social media channels. The resort indicated it would honor all previously booked reservations and work with affected guests to reschedule lessons or activities that were cancelled during the closure.
Snow conditions at Le Massif remain excellent, with the resort reporting a solid base and continued snowmaking operations during the negotiation period. The timing of the resolution allows the resort to capitalize on remaining January visitation and position itself strongly for the February school break period, traditionally one of the strongest revenue windows.
Union representatives expressed satisfaction with the outcome while acknowledging the challenges of balancing worker needs with the economic realities of seasonal resort operations. The agreement is expected to serve as a framework for future labor relations and may influence negotiations at other Quebec ski areas.
The reopening marks the end of an uncertain period for one of Eastern Canada's premier ski destinations and provides a positive example of labor-management collaboration in an industry where such disputes can have significant economic ripple effects throughout mountain communities.
Le Massif joins the full roster of Quebec ski resorts now operating normally as the province's winter tourism season continues. With strong early-season snowfall and solid advance bookings for the remainder of winter, the industry remains optimistic despite ongoing challenges related to staffing, climate, and operational costs.
