CHETWYND, B.C. Riding high For thrills, chills and spills in endless powdery hills, head north by AMBER COWIE
SKY HIGH ACTION: Chetwynd's snowy hills make it a great place to test out your riding skills. —submitted photos
There are few towns that can truly claim to come alive in the wintertime—but residents and visitors alike in Chetwynd can assure you that winter is the best time of year in the town located in the foothills of the eastern slope of the Rocky Mountains. The relatively small population of 3,100 people mean that the snowy hills are uncrowded and unmarked for days after heavy snowfalls.
Lakes district
Chetwynd is the gateway community to the Peace River region and its ample lakes and meadows are typical of the beautiful northern landscape. By mid-winter the alpine lakes are usually frozen enough for riders to take a slick ride across their frozen surface. Even if the ice is not thick enough to hold a sled the crystal blue visage the freeze provides is delightful enough.
Riders looking for longer day-trips can reach elevations of up to 7,000-feet on any number of peaks around the town. Mount Solitude, Mount Hulcross and Mount Le Hudette are all favourite destinations for riders with a desire for heights and a knowledge of steep trail riding.
Happy trails
The most popular trails in the Chetwynd area all feature a diversity of terrain that will suit the needs of any sledder. Pine Pass Trail and Silver Sand Trail are popular for families or sledders looking for a pleasantly challenging but not extremely difficult day out. For those seeking to push themselves and their snowmobile to the limit, Bickford Mountain, with an elevation of over 5,000-feet is probably the best bet.
Night life
Chetwynd has more to offer than just deep snow and winter sports. The town is jam-packed with friendly people and successful small businesses that give visitors a glimpse of the relaxed and happy nature of the town. There are lots of great diners, cozy inns and rousing pubs to provide riders with an evening of entertainment after a day in the snow.
