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REVELSTOKE, B.C.
Rev up your engines
Snowmobilers consider Revelstoke's terrain to be a national treasure
by AMBER COWIE
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ROOM WITH A VIEW: Revelstoke is the total package for snowmobilers: steep slopes, deep powder, challenging runs and scenery that will take your breath away.
—photo by Jeff Ryan |
Even driving through the valley in which Revelstoke is situated is enough to take most people's breath away, and if operating a motor vehicle in the lowest possible altitude in the region can provoke that reaction, imagine how it feels to sled through the legendary depths of mountain powder on the top of the Selkirk or Monashee mountain ranges while gazing down on those awestruck drivers stuck far below.
A wide range of rides
Revelstoke is one of Canada's most popular snowmobiling destinations with close to 20,000 riders cruising up and down its snowy climbs every year. Its diverse terrain and mix of groomed trails and untouched powder make the area a favourite with both families looking for casual day trips and hard-core sledders seeking the steep and deep.
The geography of Revelstoke’s high- reaching peaks means the snowmobiling season in the area starts early and ends late. Members of the Snowmobile Revelstoke Society use the club's two grooming machines to keep their trails in great shape all season long.
Trails of joy
For sledders in the three valley gap, it’s all about the steep and the deep. Long climbs lead up to lush alpine bowls where the vistas of the valley below are indescribably beautiful. Well-known sledding areas around Revelstoke include Boulder Mountain—with 50 kilometres of varied terrain and a day-use cabin—and Mount MacCrae, a high-altitude playground with panoramic views of the entire valley and neighbouring peaks. The deep powder means riders have to stay at the top of their game to avoid getting buried in the almost unbelievable depths.
Other top spots are Frisby Ridge and Sale Mountain, both well loved for their incredible snowpack and stunning views.
Keeping safe
Revelstoke riding is in a league of its own due to the steep climbs that are prevalent on nearly every trail system and the bucketfuls of deep powder that cover all established routes. Newcomers to the area are encouraged to contact the Snowmobile Revelstoke Society or the Revelstoke Chamber of Commerce to obtain a trail map and a few riding tips before they commence their day out in the epic conditions of the area. The snowmobiling club also offers outdoor safety courses throughout the year to ensure the safety of those on the trail and to help riders be prepared for any untoward event that may happen during their ride.
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