Snowmobiling In The South Peace: An Overview of Progress & Challenges

Written By Nicole Matei

As the winter of 2023-2024 concludes in the South Peace region, the BC Snowmobile Federation (BCSF) is pleased to provide members with a detailed update on the advancements made under the South Peace Snowmobile Development Master Plan. Initiated in response to the closure of snowmobiling areas in 2021 as part of the province's Caribou Recovery Effort, the comprehensive plan reflects the BCSF's commitment to secure investment and ensure legal establishment of snowmobile areas that remain.  We are working with our clubs in the region to ensure sustainable recreational opportunities for all snowmobilers.

Tumbler Ridge: Navigating Challenges for a Brighter Future

In Tumbler Ridge, the primary focus has centered on addressing historic, unauthorized shelters in various states of disrepair. After a comprehensive review by club members, a decision was made to preserve the Core Lodge ' hot dog shack', complemented by approval by the government for installation of a pit toilet. The club is now actively working on plans for a new shelter on Bullmoose to replace the existing 'bus.' This proposed shelter, backed by the Tumbler Ridge Outdoor Recreation Association, is envisioned as a versatile space catering to sledders, skiers, and hikers. A trail counter was installed to assess user numbers in the area that might also support a future winter trail grooming program. In the Wolverine area,  extensive efforts were made to propose an alternative route to the existing shelter via Tentfire, following the decommissioning of the resource road and bridges on the Wolverine FSR. Initial government feedback underscored the need for further route refinement, particularly in alignment with elevation band restrictions.

Chetwynd: A Leap in Growth and Official Partnerships

This winter, Chetwynd's Pine Valley Trail Blazers snowmobile club celebrated significant membership growth, reaching 151 active members. The club is currently in discussions with the government to secure an official partnership agreement, which would grant the club management over the Calazon, Hasler, and Silver Sands areas. Cleanup efforts are completed to address collapsed cabins in Calazon and Upper Burnt, while the club explores the possibility of a new shelter in Pine Lemoray. The club worked diligently over the season to win new trailhead transceiver checker units for the Hasler, Beaver, Calazon, and Silver Sands in the BCSF’s #BackcountryBINGO contest.

Mackenzie: Navigating Setbacks and Building Bridges

Mackenzie's small snowmobile club underwent a rejuvenation this winter with a new board and revitalized enthusiasm. Despite persistent trespass order challenges involving four shelters, the club successfully garnered enough members to sustain its affiliation with the BC Snowmobile Federation. An official application to oversee the Morfee Mountain Cabin has been submitted. Permission was granted for the club to groom the trail to the shelter, although limited opportunities existed this winter due to low snowfall and ongoing timber harvesting. The club took proactive steps by initiating communication with First Nations, seeking a deeper understanding of the values and history surrounding the other three shelters, and fostering a collaborative approach for the future.  We believe we are close to removing Keith’s Cabin and Virgin Valley Shelter out of trespass order and have discussions underway for removing the Bijoux shelter with permission to seek a new place for an upgraded safety cabin in the area.

In conclusion, the dedicated efforts of the South Peace region's snowmobile clubs exemplify a resilient spirit in the face of challenges. Their commitment to sustainable practices, community engagement, and establishing positive partnerships with the government and First Nations, underscores their unwavering dedication to preserving the rich tradition of snowmobiling in the area. 

You can follow along on the progress of the South Peace Clubs on social media:

Nicole Matei
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