Snowmobiling In B.C.’s North Thompson

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If you can’t wait to feel your heart pounding and the cold, crisp air on your face as you rip through the powder in timbered passages and snow-covered meadows, the North Thompson Valley region is where you need to go.

“The North Thompson Valley draws snow lovers from all over for a reason – the unbelievable snow and mountains,” says Jenna Labossiere of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association.

The region boasts endless snowmobiling hot spots – whether you’re an experienced rider looking for more extreme backcountry terrain or a novice looking for groomed runs, there’s something for everyone. With amazing dry powder and a long season running from December to April (and even later in the northern areas), the region features diverse and exciting terrain for all levels of snowmobiling fun.

Valemount

Serious outdoor adventure types can travel about three hours north from Kamloops on the Yellowhead Highway (Hwy 5 N) to check out the steep mountains in Valemount, not far from Mt. Robson – the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies.

“Snowmobiling was what initially kept the lights on in Valemount before their tourism developed more sustainably throughout the seasons,” Labossiere says. “Now it’s busier than ever, with snowmobiling drawing a strong Alberta crowd and gathering more from more southern snowmobile destinations.”

At the doorstep of the Rocky, Monashee and Cariboo mountain ranges, Valemount enjoys virtually limitless riding possibilities, including the Crystal Ridge Sled Ski Area.

Located just minutes south of Valemount, this area combines snowmobiling and skiing, with six semi-cleared runs (670 vertical metres each) and a designated snowmobile uptrack. Take turns being shuttled to the top, strap on your skis, and rip one of the runs back down the mountain! (Note that clear communication is key to utilizing this area and all backcountry safety equipment is considered mandatory.)

The unbelievable dry powder and mountains of the North Thompson Valley draws snowmobilers from all over. Photo courtesy Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association

The Valemount and Area Recreation Development Association (VARDA) keeps tracks cleared in the area, provides information about terrain and offers trail passes to explore several well known areas like Allan Creek, Clemina Creek, Chappell Creek and the popular Westridge Family Loop.

Accessible from the west side of Valemount, this family-friendly, 22-kilometre snowmobiling loop with a parking area, warming hut and amazing views of the valley and the town, is a great place for beginners to sharpen their snowmobiling skills before heading to the more challenging slopes in the area.

Blue River

Just an hour back down the Yellowhead in Blue River, explore numerous trails such as Coulees, Foam Creek, Holy Grail, Groundhog East, Groundhog West, Finger Bowls and many more, with trail passes available online from Sled Blue River. From December to March, the Blue River Powder Packers Snowmobile Club maintains and grooms more than 60km of these snowmobile trails.

For all-around outdoor enthusiasts who also love hiking, snow shoeing or ice fishing, the North Thompson Valley area is surrounded by provincial parks, filled with endless winter time opportunities. Wells Gray Provincial Park north-west of Blue River boasts volcanoes, waterfalls, mineral springs and glaciers to discover and explore.

“The snowmobile community is a passionate group of people who love the outdoors,” Labossiere says. “The whole area is also very snowmobile friendly – even the smaller places along the highway have big parking lots to accommodate trailers.

Safety first

“And always be sure before hitting any of the trails, lakes or rivers in the area that you have the proper training and safety equipment so you can have a great day, and get out safely!”

If you go:

Mike Wiegele Heli-Skiing Resort outside Blue River offers heli skiing packages in some of the most picturesque mountain terrain in the world, along with luxury accommodations at their 5-star Heli Village. Book a package at wiegele.com.
Cariboo Grill in Valemount offers comfort fare dinners and an ample wine list in this woodsy, cabin-like restaurant, open 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week.
Monashee Chalet located south of Blue River is a basic dormitory-style hut near the tree line at 1,800 metres. Openings are limited and guests booking the chalet are required to provide a resume of their backcountry lodge experience. Book by email at Monasheechalet@gmail.com.

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