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Sicamous, B.C.
Main snowmobile trails in Sicamous
Many options await sledders looking for an excellent riding experience
by Kirsten Armleder
POWDERIFFIC: All four riding areas around Sicamous feature high elevations, so sledders can enjoy powdery conditions well into spring. —Submitted photos
With an abundance of snow, beautiful weather and a variety of places to play, it is no wonder Sicamous has become a favourite snowmobiling area for sledders of all abilities.
"It's all-around great riding," said Al Eleniak, who has been sledding the Sicamous area for the past 18 to 20 years.
Four distinct riding areas, each with groomed trail access, offer sledders unforgettable alpine adventures.
Owlhead
Whether you want to take the family out for a nice afternoon in the mountains or you’re searching for the ultimate thrill, this vast snowmobiling riding area has a little something for everyone.
According to Bruce Moores, president of the Eagle Valley Snowmobile Club, Owlhead boasts a large lake and one of the highest peaks in the North Okanagan—Mara Lookout.
A cozy chalet is situated approximately 21 kilometres along well-groomed trails. Because of its high elevation, Owlhead guarantees great conditions until late spring.
Queest Mountain
This spectacular snowmobiling area has a comfortable chalet and 35 kilometres of deep powder riding, exciting hillclimbing spots and breathtaking vantage points.
"Queest is our oldest area and on a clear day has one of the best views in the Eagle Valley," said Moores.
The trailhead for Queest is located five minutes from downtown Sicamous. At an elevation of over 2,000 metres, this beautiful area provides great sledding well into spring.
Blue Lake
Wide open alpine and subalpine terrain characterize the Blue Lake riding area, which, according to Moores, is quickly becoming the most popular riding spot in the area.
"It can accommodate both the family rider and those who like to explore the backcountry without real steep terrain," said Moores.
Access to the Blue Lake area begins 17 kilometres east of Sicamous on Malakwa Loop Road. Once on the road, turn immediately right on Oxbow Frontage Road, then left on Yard Creek Loop Road. Continue 2.5 kilometres to the parking lot located at the start of Yard Creek forestry road.
Eagle's Pass
This seeminly endless snowmobiling area is rugged and remote and features incredible views and lofty peaks. At over 2,000 metres above sea level, Eagle's Pass is blessed with an extended riding season.
"Eagle's Pass is not for the faint of heart," Moores said. "Everything is big, steep and breathtakingly beautiful."
If you are new to Eagle's Pass, it is recommended that you first go with someone who is familiar with the area.
To access the trailhead, drive 29 kilometres east of Sicamous to the Trans-Canada Highway, then turn north just past Beardale Castle and go about half a kilometre to the start of the East Perry Forest Service Road.
