SPEAKING UP FOR SNOWMOBILING

land access & advocacy

Across British Columbia, our member clubs are the boots on the ground, maintaining more than 18,000 km of trails and 90 recreation sites that serve over 44,000 riders. Behind every open trail, shelter, and staging area is the work of dedicated volunteers and riding communities.

The BC Snowmobile Federation amplifies and supports this work by uniting shared concerns and representing nearly 60 clubs at the provincial level. We advocate for access to public land, support responsible stewardship, and plan for the long-term sustainability of snowmobiling in BC.

BC’s snowmobilers are more than recreation users — we’re caretakers. From clearing trails and maintaining signage to restoring cabins and respecting closures, club volunteers across the province contribute thousands of hours to protect the places we ride.

 

Advocacy in Action

A look at a few key access files we’re actively working on across BC.

 
  • Renshaw Bridge Removal

    The Ministry of Forests has removed a bridge leading into a core recreation zone without consultation or replacement plans.

    Updates:

  • Proposed Closures of 13 Mountain Passes


    Through the Cumulative Effects Management Framework (CEMF), the Province is seeking public input on proposals that would close trails spanning 13 mountain passes along the BC/Alberta border to public recreation. This includes popular snowmobile recreation trails including Corbin Rain Gauge, Ptolemy Pass, Deadman’s Pass, Racehorse Pass and more.

  • Delayed Permit Renewal

    Due to delays in renewing the club’s Special Management Agreement permits, snowmobilers are currently unable to access this designated riding area.

    Updates:

    • Jan 24, 2025 HERE

    • Dec 2, 2025 HERE

    • Public Land Use Consultation HERE

  • Access Win: Permit Granted

    the Cranbrook Snowmobile Club has received permission to operate in an area previously closed due to caribou concerns. The approval reflects strong stewardship, collaboration, and recognition that the area no longer supports the extirpated herd.

    More info HERE.

  • Project Proposal for New Bridal Veil Falls Gondola

    The proposed Bridal Falls gondola initially posed a threat to key snowmobile areas. After public and stakeholder input, the plan was revised to maintain access to important recreation sites — a positive outcome for riders.

    Update:

  • Closure and Bridge Removal by Ministry


    The removal of a bridge in the Incomappleux area has eliminated snowmobile access to a popular riding zone.

    Updates:

  • The BC Government has announced they will be decommissioning a 67km stretch of the Kettle Valley Rail Trail between Princeton and the Coquihalla Hwy. Read more HERE.

  • With funding support from Y2Y, the Arrow Lakes Caribou Society is proposing to create a ‘treatment area’ that would block of public access to a large portion of public land near Nakusp, BC. Read more HERE.

  • Rady Creek FSR is slated for road deactivation in August 2026. The closure will result in loss of public access to important recreation areas. See map HERE.

 

help us protect access

Advocating for land access takes time, expertise, and resources. The RideOnBC Land Access Fund helps us show up at the meetings that matter, hire professionals, and defend snowmobiling across BC.