Mackenzie, British Columbia

Expanding the sledding

Mackenzie will soon have trails leading to even more mountain riding

Megan getting her sled unstuck

A perfect snow day: Sledders in Mackenzie can usually enjoy snowmobiling for half of the year and have access to more than 100 kilometres of groomed trails. —photo courtesy District of Mackenzie

By Kali Love

Mackenzie is a sledder’s paradise and the community has become known across Canada and beyond for its porch-to-powder riding and splendid scenery.

The local snowmobile club in Mackenzie—the Rocky Mountain Riders—are an active group. Members participate in plenty of group rides and raise funds annually for charities, including the Polaris Way Out Women Relay for breast cancer, Care and Share for underprivileged families and the Lions Club Snowarama for children with disabilities.

Kerri Borne, the communications and marketing co-ordinator for the District of Mackenzie, said all of the work done by the Rocky Mountain Riders snowmobile club is on a volunteer basis. Recently, the club has been working with the District of Mackenzie to develop a 10-kilometre snowmobile trail called the PK Access Trail. Borne said this trail will connect with existing trails and open up mountain riding possibilities for sledders in Mackenzie.

“It is 10 kilometres of new trail being developed, so the full trail is about 20 kilometres,” said Borne. “We are looking at it being a groomed trail that will take you into the mountains where you can access the Pine Bowl riding area…We are in the middle of it now and it is to be completed this summer, so it will be ready for sledders this coming winter.”

Northern British Columbia contacts

  • Smithers, BC

    Visit Smithers for endless snowmobiling opportunities

    Smithers is a regional service center for the entire Bulkley Valley and, therefore, offers many more amenities than you would normally see in a town of this size. The town is set against the backdrop of Hudson Bay Mountain to the west and the Babine Mountain range to the east which makes a very picturesque setting and prime sledding territory. It also makes for quick and easy access to the backcountry which lends itself to all kinds of outdoor recreational pursuits. This, along with a range of urban features such as great restaurants, accommodations, shops and entertainment, means that Smithers has something for everyone.

    Town Of Smithers

  • Smithers, BC

    A motel you can count on for value, comfort and service

    At Capri Motor Inn in Smithers, BC, you will find clean, comfortable rooms and a friendly hospitality team attentive to your needs. We are located near the heart of Smithers, within walking distance to downtown stores, restaurants and the recreation centre. We are surrounded by the kind of terrain that sledders strive to find, and our motel is a popular choice for snowmobilers to stay while visiting Smithers. We have a 24-hour desk, high-speed internet, group and sports rates, restaurant and licensed dining room, car plugs and ample parking, to name just a few of our fabulous amenities.

    Capri Motor Inn

  • Smithers, BC

    We invite you to make us your home while in Smithers.

    Aspen Inn & Suites is a perfect place to stay during your visit to Smithers. With our impressive array of amenities—including an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, ample parking right outside your door, access to equipment drying room and wifi. We are a great choice for snowmobilers seeking a place to relax after an action-packed day. Our surrounding landscape is ideal for your recreational pleasure. Back at the inn, you can satisfy your appetite at the beautiful Aspen Riverhouse Restaurant & Lounge.

    Aspen Inn & Suites

  • Smithers, BC

    Offering legendary accommodations

    The Hudson Bay Lodge is a full service hotel, where you can get cozy and warm after hitting the local trails. We offer Smithers hospitality at its best, with features such as an on-site liquor store, free wireless Internet, on-site coin operated laundry, dry cleaning, complimentary transportation to and from the Smithers Airport and a top-notch restaurant and pub. All guestrooms at the Hudson Bay Lodge feature convenient amenities, including in-room movie service. We offer queen-size beds, and  king rooms with a fireplace, flat screen TV and fridge. Banquet and meeting facilities are available for one to 375 people. We are located just minutes from the downtown shopping core, recreation trails and other amazing attractions.

    Hudson Bay Lodge

  • How Does Snowmobiling Affect Caribou?

    As most snowmobiling occurs in high elevation areas, there is the potential for snowmobiling to disturb and displace these animals from their preferred habitat into areas less suitable and more prone to avalanches. Mountain caribou may also become stressed, which can affect energy reserves during critical time periods. In addition, snowmobile trails can provide easier access for predators into areas occupied by mountain caribou. Please take caution and be aware of, and avoid, mountain caribou in your riding area.

    Environmental Stewardship Division, Ministry Of Environment
    PHONE: (250) 565-6135

  • Fort Nelson, BC

    Relax after a day on the trails

    If you are looking for quality accommodation in Fort Nelson, look no further. The local Super 8 hotel has amenities to make guests feel comfortable and relaxed during their stay. There is a free continental breakfast and high speed internet, meeting space and parking area for large vehicles such as trucks or buses. Pets are allowed, and guests can enjoy a swimming pool and exercise facility, or take advantage of the business centre. Airport shuttles are also available.

    Sledders can experience several exhilarating trails near Fort Nelson. With Super 8 hotel, snowmobilers always have a warm place to relax after a day on the trails.

    Super 8

  • Fort St. John, BC

    Superior service and a comfortable stay

    The Super 8 staff is proud of the quality service at their Fort St. John hotel. With a business centre and indoor heated pool and waterslide, this hotel is built for your enjoyment. There is also a fitness centre, free high speed internet and continental breakfast. The hotel offers three unique theme rooms: Arabian, African and Wilderness Retreat—and parking spaces that will accommodate large trucks. Along with numerous amenities in each room, guests can enjoy a daily newspaper, ATM machine, 24-hour guest service and security. Pets are allowed, with a fee.

    Visiting snowmobilers can rest assured that there is a fantastic hotel to return to after a day on the trails. Welcome to Super 8.

    Super 8