Tumbler Ridge, B.C. Endless riding possibilities Snowmobile for miles and never see the same thing twice
PICTURE-PERFECT: You’ll want to make sure you bring your camera when snowmobiling in Tumbler Ridge. This photo was taken in the Wolverine forest service road area.
Winter in Tumbler Ridge means one thing: local snowmobilers are polishing up their sleds and getting ready to hit one of the greatest—yet fairly undiscovered—snowmobiling areas to be found in B.C.’s north.
With heart-pounding hills and plenty of terrific wide open mountain riding, this region is becoming an increasingly popular destination for snowmobilers across the West.
“We have more and more people coming in from the Prairies to ride out here,” said Clark Hazlehurst, who has been snowmobiling in Tumbler Ridge for nearly eight years, “but we have such a huge snowmobiling area that it never gets crowded and you can always find your own space to give ’er.”
Tumbler Ridge has more than 300 kilometres of snowmobile trails branching out from the town and a dozen more sledding areas that are well worth the short drive.
Core Lodge area
One of the most popular riding areas in the region, Core Lodge has everything from groomed, easy-to-ride trails to extremely challenging climbs. There are a number of great alpine areas with spectacular scenery, including Windy Ridge, the Super Bowl, Summit Meadows and the Back Meadows. You can also make your way to Kinuseo Falls from this area, which is a scenic treat for riders of all ages.
Lovin’ the lakes
Whether you want to ice fish or take the family for a picnic, Tumbler Ridge has a number of lakes that are easily accessible and fun to visit. Bearhole Lake is a small lake with endless riding possibilities. It has a large network of interweaving trails that can sometimes have snowmobilers feeling a little bit like a mouse in a maze. For this reason, it is recommended newcomers take along somebody who is knowledgeable about the area. Another wonderful lake is Moose Lake, located north of Tumbler Ridge. It is easy to ride with a good, solid ice cover and is a perfect spot for families and beginners.
For the daredevils
If you are looking for an adrenalin rush and some hard-core riding opportunities, Mount Spieker and neighbouring Mount Reesor offer great adventures and panoramic views in a slightly less populated location. Trails are rated at an intermediate to expert level and are easily accessible from Perry Creek Road.
No matter what your riding style, Tumbler Ridge is sure to have something to satisfy everyone. And for those who would rather stay within town limits, the community offers many unique shopping opportunities and wonderful restaurants to keep tourists entertained.
Tumbler Ridge | The essentials
Elevation: 2,723ft Annual snowfall: 15ft Average winter temp: -15°C Sledding season: Nov-April Info: District of Tumbler Ridge
(250) 242 4242 www.tumblerridge.ca
