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STEWART, B.C.
Alpine adventures await
This region takes mountain riding to a whole new level
by KIRSTEN ARMLEDER
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A CHILLING EXPERIENCE: Mount Dilsworth is a vast snowmobiling area with fantastic views of Salmon Glacier—the fifth largest glacier in North America.
—photo by Jeremiah McFee |
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NO TRACKS HERE: Stewart is the ideal spot for sledders seeking huge mountain bowls and lots of virgin powder.
—photo by Chris Morrison |
With massive glaciers, rugged snow-covered mountains, deep valleys, stunning views and overwhelming amounts of snow, sledding in Stewart is certainly not for the faint at heart. This is a region of unspoiled beauty—where snowmobiling takes on a whole new meaning.
"The area is pristine and still untouched by many in some parts," said Jeremiah McFee, a longtime resident and avid snowmobiler.
One of Stewart's many attributes is the geography of the area's high-reaching mountain peaks, which means the snowmobiling season starts early and ends late.
Although Stewart is rated for expert, as well as novice sledders, it is the region's deep powder and awesome highmarking spots that appeal most to seasoned snowmobilers.
Take your breath away
Long Lake, Betty Glacier, Happy Valley, Cathedrals and Mount Dilsworth—a large area with spectacular views of far away lakes and glacial fields—are just a few of the popular places to sled. Here, sledders can ride on beautiful ungroomed trails that lead up to large alpine areas where the scenery is absolutely breathtaking.
Getting there: At the start of the season these areas can be accessed from the Boliden mill site near Stewart. From December on, the road is not plowed and sledders have to unload in Hyder, Alaska, and ride up to the mountain valleys.
The local snowmobile club maintains a cabin that is equipped with survival gear and other important items. It can also be used for overnight and weekend trips. However, accessing the cabin is sometimes a challenge; McFee said sledders usually have to tunnel down through the snow to get into it.
Right on the border
Stewart's unique location, perched on the edge of the B.C./Alaska border, means visitors can take advantage of what the international community has to offer.
"We have the best of both worlds—small town Stewart, B.C., and anything-goes-Hyder, Alaska," said McFee. "There are accommodations in both towns and everyone knows each other." |
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