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LAC DU BONNET/PINAWA
Get into the mix
Sledders will love the variety of trails that this area has to offer
by KIRSTEN ARMLEDER
Snowmobilers seeking a change of pace will love the charming atmosphere, terrific scenery and multitude of excellent snowmobile trails that surround the communities of Lac du Bonnet and Pinawa. The area’s interesting geography makes it one of Manitoba’s most sought-out destinations for outdoor recreation.
"The Lac du Bonnet region is located basically where the Canadian Shield meets the Prairie, so there are a whole variety of different things to see while out on the trails," said Gus Wruck, president of the Eastman Sno Pals snowmobile club.
According to Wruck, the area boasts approximately 320 kilometres of groomed trails that travel near dense forests, granite outcrops, swamps and ice-covered lakes; the interconnecting trail system also gives riders easy access to other popular sledding areas in eastern Manitoba.
Routes to ride
Some of the most favoured places to sled are the rail bed from Seddon's Corner, a trail from Pinawa to King’s Kookout and a passage that takes sledders from Halfway Hut through the Agassiz Forest.
Getting there: Many of these areas can be accessed from the parking lot across from Casey's Inn Motor Hotel at 68 1st Street in Lac du Bonnet.
These routes are great for a family outing, as the trails are smooth and have well-maintained warm-up shelters along the way.
"All of the warm-up shelters are built with a stove for heating and cooking," said Wruck. "Firewood is supplied and on winter weekends the fires are kept burning by those passing through."
Teamwork on the trails
An essential ingredient to being recognized as a top sledding destination is having a dedicated snowmobile club—and that is exactly what the Eastman Sno Pals are all about.
Formed in 1996, this regional snowmobile club is made up of members from the neighbouring communities of Pinawa, Lac du Bonnet, Seddon's Corner, Seven Sisters Falls, Whitemouth and Elma. Together, they spend many hours keeping the trails in top-notch condition.
"We generally try to groom once a week during the major part of the grooming season," said Wruck. "There is also good signage to direct traffic to the next destinations."
Enjoy the countryside
Lac du Bonnet and Pinawa are snowmobile-friendly communities that provide visitors with a wide array of excellent accommodations and restaurants. The rural lifestyle and prime location along the Winnipeg River make the area a perfect place for a snowmobiling getaway. |
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