Making Tracks – The thrills of snowmobiling
If you drive the Sea-to-Sky Highway during the winter months then you’ve probably seen a growing number of trucks toting snowmobiles around. Perhaps you’ve wondered what they’re up to and where they’re headed.
The Coastal Mountain Range has some of the most breathtaking terrain in the world and discovering this area by snowmobile is always an epic adventure. Backcountry skiers and snowboarders often use snowmobiles to get into the backcountry’s endless untouched powder snow. A sled can eliminate the monotony of touring up a logging road for 25 to 35 kilometres and get you to the good stuff quicker.
Dave Norona carves up the light fluffy snow on Brohm Ridge in Squamish, BC (Photo by Brad Dean)
If you’re new to snowmobiling, a word of caution. Contrary to popular belief, riding a snowmobile is not easy. A snowmobile is heavy when not under power and if not kept moving in deep snow, it will sink and you’ll need to dig it out. Carving or turning a snowmobile is done by using the throttle and counter-steering, which is not intuitive or easy, at first.
That said, snowmobiles have come a long way in just a few years. Heavy, underpowered and loud machines of the past have been replaced with lightweight fuel-efficient machines that can climb the steepest mountains in deep powder snow. Ski-Doo has led the charge with their latest sled, the Rev XP. It has dropped an amazing 22 kilograms of weight thanks to its computer design and newest 600 E-Tech engine, which has virtually no emissions. This allows riders to get better fuel economy and be more environmentally friendly.
Like any sport, snowmobiling has its dangers. Avalanches, terrain traps and other riders are just some of the things snowmobile riders need to look out for. All riders should take an avalanche safety course and carry a probe, shovel, and avalanche transceiver.
If you want to try snowmobiling, check out the incredible Cougar Mountain located just across the valley from Whistler/Blackcomb. This awesome adventure area boasts 18,000 acres of terrain beginning right where you park your vehicle. Cougar Mountain offers a number of snowmobile packages to best suit the size and ability of your group and their professional snowmobile guides will lead you through Whistler’s famous ancient cedar trees on your way to discovering the Soo Valley. More details are available at www.cougarmountain.ca. See you out there!
Gear Guide
BCA Tracker DTS Transceiver
CFR Metal Bracket Snowboard Rack
Skiing and snowboarding off your snowmobile is all the rage these days. CFR’s ski/snowboard rack is the best on the market and allows you to carry your board or skis on your sled with ease. Price: $495, www.cheetahfactoryracing.com
BCA Tracker DTS Transceiver
This avalanche transceiver is one of the best and easiest to use on the market. LED direction and real-time distance indication allows you to find buried victims quickly and accurately. Price: $277, www.backcountryaccess.com
Ski Doo Rev XP Sled
Ski Doo Rev XP Sled
The ultimate sled just got better in 2009 with the new Rev XP. It’s 22 kilos lighter, 37 percent stronger and has a 151-hp 800R engine that will pull through the deepest snow. Price: $13,149, www.gvps.ca
