SMITHERS, B.C.
20 years of sledding fun
From family style riding to the extremes—Smithers has it all
Gimme shelter: The Smithers snowmobile association maintains six cabins in the area. —photo courtesy of Geri Brown
Flanked by Hudson Bay Mountain to the west and the Babine Mountain Range to the east, the close-knit community of Smithers in the northwestern section of British Columbia is popular with both locals and visitors for its year-round recreational opportunities. Having these outstanding mountains very close by and so easily accessible, it is natural that Smithers has become known for some of the best snowmobiling areas in all of B.C.
A family event
According to Geri Brown from Trails North, a local snowmobile dealership, the riding is fabulous. “There are lots of different places and it’s possible not to get to all of them in the year,” she said.
Brown and her husband have been operating Trails North for 20 years and have been members of the local Smithers Snowmobile Association for the same length of time. Sledding is a family event with her husband and three daughters snowmobiling regularly in this region, enjoying the abundance of snow that falls every year. Brown said she has been riding since she was 16 and is pleased that her daughters and husband enjoy the sport too.
Snowmobiling in the wilderness around Smithers provides a variety of terrain for riders of all levels of experience. There are excellent climbs for those looking for an extreme adventure and untracked snow but there are also many beautiful areas for family type riding. All of this is possible to reach within 30 minutes of leaving downtown Smithers.
A welcoming group
The Smithers Snowmobile Association has been in existence since the ’70s and the 125-plus members and volunteers regularly groom the trails so they are ready for sledding fans to enjoy. The group also maintains six cabins in the area used to provide shelter for those who need it. The association is open to new members and anyone interested is invited to come to their monthly meetings held at the Hudson Bay Lodge.
Groomed trails
The three areas groomed by the dedicated volunteers are The Microwave, The Dome and The Onion.
The Microwave—approximately half an hour south of the nearby town of Telkwa.
The Onion—north of Smithers in Babine Mountain Provincial Park. All levels of sledders will enjoy this area. There are even two propane equipped cabins to shelter in.
The Dome—east of Smithers. From the parking lot riders will find beautiful groomed trails.
Annual hillclimb
Come to Smithers next March and join in the annual, heart-pounding Smithers Hillclimb—it’s an event that shouldn’t be missed.
Northern British Columbia contacts
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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 EnvironmentPHONE: (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
