WINTER 2017/18 | ISSUE 13
THE EXTRA MILE Forei gn D esti n ati o n s | C r e vasse Hazard | T he Renshaw | Ge ar Guide
YOUR LAST
VITAL LAYER
TEAM RIDERS: BRETT TURCOTTE BRODIE EVANS CARL KUSTER CHRIS BROWN CHRIS BURANDT CHRISTIAN GAGNON CODY BORCHERS CODY MCNOLTY CORY DAVIS DEREK WOOD GEOFF DYER JAY MENTABERRY JULIE-ANN CHAPMAN KEITH CURTIS MATT ENTZ NADINE OVERWATER REAGAN SIEG RENE ST. ONGE RILEY SUHAN ROB ALFORD
FOR THE FULL TEAM VISIT:
HIGHMARKAIRBAGS.COM
PHOTO: DAVE BEST RIDER: RILEY SUHAN
NEW FOR 2018
LIGHTWEIGHT. RELIABLE.
DURABLE. INNOVATIVE.
CHARGER R.A.S
PRO 3.0 P.A.S.
• THE LIGHTEST DEPLOYMENT SYSTEM ON THE MARKET • ONE CONNECTION SET-UP • EXTREME DURABILITY • DESIGNED BY SNOWMOBILERS FOR SNOWMOBILERS
SEE
A NEW WAY UP
T H E W O R L D ’ S B E ST M O U N TA I N S L ED
Professional rider on a closed course. Polaris® recommends that all snowmobile riders take a training course. Do not attempt maneuvers beyond your capability. Always wear a helmet and other safety apparel. Never drink and ride. ©2017 Polaris Industries Inc.
TERRAINDOMINATION.COM
DEPARTMENTS
FEATURES
08 IGNITION
30
GOING THE EXTRA MILE It takes something more than elbow grease to create memorable snowmobiling experiences.
BY GADSAR Exploring a glacier on a sled is an amazing experience; but there are things you need to know first before attempting it.
12 TRAILHEAD 17 FILM BEHIND THE SCENES: 509 VOLUME 12 Riley Suhan gets the green light to shred the ski slopes of his hometown Kicking Horse Mountain Resort in this unique segment.
36
Swing on by our rustic locker room to see if there is some new piece of gear you might like hanging in your home this winter.
A Revelstoke shredder finds true passion for her sport in Sweden.
42
The Fresh Set of Tracks film crew explores the vast and rugged landscape of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula.
THE RENSHAW McBride’s flagship area boasts the largest managed snowmobile riding area in BC.
66 SIDETRACK ABOVE & BEYOND Brandon Wiesener spends more time driving and wrenching than sledding on a challenging four-day shooting mission.
69 TAILGATE THE TIE THAT BINDS There are those who cannot grasp the lenghts to which sledders will go to ride where—and with who—we want.
72 SEND IT
6 | ISSUE 13
THE LAND OF FIRE AND ICE BY CODY MCNOLTY
26 RIDE GUIDE
56 EXPOSURE
OPTIMISM ABROAD BY NADINE OVERWATER
20 GEAR GUIDE THE GEAR CACHE
HIDDEN DANGER
48
KONNICHIWA, JAPAN! BY CHRIS BROWN Brown and friends share a photo scrapbook of their riding adventure across the Pacific.
REDUCED TO
PROTECTION
Te
ASCENT 30 AVABAG
si sT
Te
eger
sT s ieg
er
The sensationally LIGHT and COMPACT AVABAG SYSTEM provides PROTECTION – even during the most demanding of activities. This has been achieved through a new welding technology and an innovatively simple venturi unit. A reduced number of parts and a completely closed, robust system make the AVABAG light, compact and extremely reliable!
Learn more about AVABAG on ortovox.com!
PHOTO: MATTHEW MALLORY RIDER: RYAN THORLEY
IGNITION
GOING THE EXTRA MILE BY PATRICK GARBUTT Some of our most memorable snowmobiling experiences are the ones that involve the most effort. Like that epic trip up to Alaska that you started planning a year in advance. Or the five-hour suffer-fest your crew endured struggling to get a sled with a busted chaincase back up out of no man’s land. Or that time you spent an entire day pushing into an unfamiliar zone, only to be turned around at dark before making it in. The stories in this issue all share that common thread. Within these pages, we’ve featured three riding trips to foreign lands overseas. Nadine Overwater tells the story of her experience instructing at a ride clinic in Sweden. Cody McNolty explores the vast and raw landscape of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula. And Chris Brown and friends share a photo scrapbook of highlights from their adventure in Japan. But that’s not all. We go behind the scenes of a unique film segment in 509 Volume 12 that required special permission and extensive logistics planning to produce. In addition, Brandon Wiesener tells us about a nightmare four-day shooting mission in which he spent more time driving and wrenching than sledding. And we talk about some of the mandatory gear and knowledge you’ll need to acquire if you plan to use your sled to safely explore some of this continent’s breathtaking glaciers. Each of the remarkable stories shared in this issue required way more effort to plan and execute than a regular ol’ ride at your favourite local zone. Clearly, we thought, going the extra mile is the key to experiencing an incredible and memorable adventure on your snowmobile. But, as the stories came trickling in one-by-one, we were surprised to discover that we were wrong. The truth of the matter became more abundantly clear with each submission. It turns out, it’s all about the people. All of these stories focus more on the people involved than the effort it took to make them happen. Going the extra mile isn’t what creates amazing snowmobiling experiences for people after all; that’s just a factor. It’s the people sharing the experience together that make it special and memorable. In the end it’s not about what you do, or the lengths you go to, but who you do it with that matters. You don’t have to fly halfway around the world to have a great time. Just pick the right people to join in on your adventures this winter, and you’ll make incredible memories that will stick with you for a lifetime.
8 | ISSUE 13
PHOTO: DAVE BEST
IGNITION
THE ALL-NEW 2018 M 8000 IS HERE. The higher you go, the better it gets, and there’s no better machine to take you there than the 2018 M 8000. Although similar in appearance to last year’s model, it has undergone a radical transformation. The all-new Ascender™ Platform provides a narrower frame and quick-release body panels for expanded riding and service capabilities, while the new Arctic Cat® 8000 high-output C-TEC2™ engine gives you faster throttle response and acceleration — and more torque. It’s 10–15 pounds lighter, too, for maximum control in the steep and deep. There’s a new king of the mountain in See your dealer or visit ARCTICCAT.COM today to see the entire 2018 lineup. Always wear a helmet and don’t drink and ride. ©2017 Textron Specialized Vehicles Inc. All rights reserved.
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 9
ON THE COVER EDITOR Patrick Garbutt ART DIRECTION & Lyuba Kirkova GRAPHIC DESIGN COPY EDITOR Steve Crowe EDITORIAL FELLOW Megan Crandall PUBLISHER Mountain Sledder Media CONTRIBUTING Marty Anderson, Chris Brown, WRITERS Mary Clayton, Ian Gale, Jessica Joy, Matthew Mallory, Cody McNolty, Andy Messner, Nadine Overwater, Colin Wallace, Brandon Wiesener
CONTRIBUTING Rob Alford, Amon Barker, PHOTOGRAPHERS Justin Befu, Aaron Bernasconi,
Dave Best, Kira Brazinski, Chris Brown, Julie-Ann Chapman, Ryen Dunford, Patrick Garbutt, Rob Hoff, Brian Hull, Joachim Hygglo, Lyuba Kirkova, Joakim Kostet, Duncan Lee, Rickard Lövgren, Matthew Mallory, Andrew Munster, Linus Nilsson, Nadine Overwater, Nick Reedy, Allan Sawchuck, Dave Seaton, Simon Selberg, Rene St Onge, Daniel Stewart, Colin Wallace, Todd Weselake, Brandon Wiesener, Todd Williams
ADVERTISING SALES Jessica Joy
Lyuba Kirkova Magi Scallion
DISTRIBUTION Mountain Sledder magazine is published twice a year (September and December) and can be found at powersports shops and on newsstands throughout Canada.
PHOTO: ROB HOFF RIDER: AMON BARKER
Many of the accomplished photographers whose images grace the pages of Mountain Sledder are legitimate rippers in their own right. After all, keeping up with the best riders in the game requires a certain amount of skill. The pursuit of epic shots often requires sled photographers to chase professional athletes into remote and difficult-to-access terrain. The ability to shred is a necessity for those who wish to capture mountain sledding in its purest form—a skillful rider slaying some rugged, untouched terrain.
LAST ISSUE
CONTRIBUTIONS Mountain Sledder magazine (MS) is not responsible for unsolicited contributions. MS retains all rights on material published in MS for a period of 12 months after publication and reprint rights after that period expires. Submission inquiries can be sent to info@sleddermag.com SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE
To change your address or order new subscriptions, visit sleddermag.com
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER
802 9 St N, Golden, BC V0A1H2 250.344.3645 info@sleddermag.com
@SLEDDERMAG Printed in Canada by TC Transcontinental Printing
10 | ISSUE 13
© Copyright, Mountain Sledder 2017. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any materials published in MS is expressly forbidden without the written consent of the publisher.
Did he stick it? Well, here’s what Colton had to say: “I thought it would be a good idea to launch a pillow and get close to that dead tree in the air. Well, I misjudged the takeoff and smoked it squarely with the right ski! The top 3m of the tree broke off and I thought for sure I had destroyed CKMP’s pre-production sled, but luckily we both rode away unharmed!”
CONTRIBUTORS
CONQUER NEW HEIGHTS. AMON BARKER PHOTOGRAPHER Amon Barker is an adventure photographer and filmmaker based in Jackson, Wyoming. When not behind the lens shooting for commercial projects, Amon is a passionate outdoorsman and avid mountain sledder. After photographing long-time riding buddy and big mountain snowmobile veteran Rob Hoff sending a perfect wind-lip deep in the Wyoming backcountry, Amon handed off the camera and lined up another great natural take-off, landing himself on the cover of Mountain Sledder!
Reach the peak of performance on a Ski-Doo® Sled. With innovations like the REV Gen4 Platform, tMotion™ rear suspension and Rotax® engine technology, you can carve any mountain into powder.
ALLAN SAWCHUCK PHOTOGRAPHER Photography and snowmobiling have allowed Allan Sawchuck to combine two of his favourite passions while enjoying the backcountry. He was born and raised and still resides on Vancouver Island, BC where the snow is deep most years. When it’s not, road trips all over the province are never out of the question. In the past, real work has gotten in the way sometimes, but this winter Allan hopes to get behind the shutter more often to capture his friends on their many epic adventures.
It’s all about the ride... 53227 Range Road 170 • Yellowhead County, AB T7E 3A6 780.723.5775 • RIDERZ.CA ©2017 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved ®, ™ and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates.
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 11
TRAILHEAD
PHOTO: TODD WESELAKE
MANAGING AVALANCHE TERRAIN
BY MARY CLAYTON, COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR, AVALANCHE CANADA
Knowing how to handle avalanche terrain is a sure sign of an experienced backcountry rider. Moving safely through challenging and complex terrain requires solid skills, an open mind and an ability to question old habits. Knowing what to look for, and why, are skills that every backcountry rider should acquire. As a result of input from our snowmobile committee, Avalanche Canada has developed a new course called “Managing Avalanche Terrain,” or MAT. Sledders cover an incredible amount of terrain in a day, which increases the exposure to the potential of avalanches. Travelling fast through big mountains requires sound skills, in both navigation and avalanche risk assessment. Understanding how to use terrain to its advantage and knowing what terrain features to avoid given the current conditions are key to a long and successful enjoyment of mountain snowmobiling. The MAT is a one-day, field-based course with an AST 1 course as a prerequisite. The MAT gives students the opportunity to put into practice all the trip planning skills they learned in an AST 1, under the guidance of an instructor. It is also a good bridge between the AST 1 and the AST 2.
12 | ISSUE 13
The MAT can be taken as a stand-alone course or it can be tagged on to an AST 1. This focused field day will expand on the terrain management skills learned in the AST 1 and help students develop the ability to evaluate avalanche terrain and assess risk with more confidence. This course was introduced late in the season last year, after most AST instructors had already set their schedules, so it had a slow start. But we got some great feedback from those who taught it and those who took it, so we’re looking forward to seeing its enrolment grow this coming season. We’re all looking forward to the snow at this time of year. Maybe as you’re getting your equipment ready for another great season, think about honing your skills as well. Click on the “Learn” tab on our homepage at avalanche.ca to find instructors in your area and have a great, safe winter.
“
Sledders cover an incredible amount of terrain in a day, which increases the exposure to the potential of avalanches. Travelling fast through big mountains requires sound skills, in both navigation and avalanche risk assessment.”
2017 FILM REVIEWS
THE AVALANCHE
THUNDERSTRUCK 16 ç BEST VARIETY ç
“
ith time, the popularity of any particular riding style can rise or W fall—a fact not lost on Team Thunderstruck. Fear not, adrenaline junkies; the hillclimbing pucker factor on which the brand built its reputation is still present in Thunderstruck 16. However, that’s not all by a long shot. Thunderstruck 16 offers the most diverse range of riding styles in a film this year, including: tight trees, backcountry freestyle, snow bike shredding, all-mountain freeriding and—you guessed it—some pretty insane chute attempts.”
SAFETY SPECIALISTS
BOONDOCKERS 14 ç MOST TECHNICAL LINES ç
“
ome of the POV angles in Boondockers Fourteen give the viewer a S really good feel for what it’s like to crawl up through the tight terrain chased by the crew in the film. At each impasse, the viewer can’t help but ask, Where is he going to go? Which way would I go? You can get right into it—so much so that it becomes easy to imagine it’s you there, casting your head side-to-side looking for a way out, breathing heavy, sweating and squinting through foggy goggles.”
FREE SHIPPING OVER $100
TRAX UPRISING ç MOST PROGRESSIVE RIDING ç
“
Trax Uprising doesn’t exist for the sake of a film dedicated to snow bike riders. It’s about so much more than that. It’s a film about sharing a love for riding snow bikes and growing the sport. The athletes come from different backgrounds including sledding, snowboarding, skiing and freestyle mx, of course; though their perspective and style are influenced by their roots, they all share the same love of their burgeoning sport. These riders are on the forefront of the snow bike movement, and they are a special part of the reason why it’s catching on like crazy.”
AVALANCHESAFETY.CA
509 VOLUME 12 ç STANDOUT PERFORMANCE – REAGAN SIEG ç
“
ou’ll have to wait 48 minutes before you see the first snow bike, but if Y that’s what you’re in it for, you won’t be disappointed. You get Reagan Sieg launching his bike huge off everything in sight. Sieg makes it all look easy and fun, from carving up open slopes to slashing deep winddrifts and even straight down a tight chute at top speed. Whether you have preference for sleds or snow bikes, it doesn’t matter—his is the best segment in Volume 12 by a large margin.” To read full reviews of the 2017 sled and snow bike films, visit sleddermag.com
SLEDDER DICTIONARY BY ANDY MESSNER
Whiskey Throttle Barrelled
[bar-uh l-d] To become fully engulfed in glorious powder while carving on a snowmobile.
[hwis-kee throt-l] Origins in the dirt bike world. When a rider panics, grabs way too much throttle and loses control, causing a Yard Sale. Not to be confused with a Panic Rev.
Yard sale
[yahrd seyl] When a rider crashes violently, causing pieces of their sled and gear to fly all over the place. This causes the area to resemble a yard sale.
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 13
TRAILHEAD
PHOTOS: RENE ST ONGE
EAGLE PASS FIRE LOOKOUT RENOVATION CONTROVERSY Sledders hailing from Sicamous and beyond have worked together over the course of the last two years to renovate a nearby historic fire lookout which had been reduced to ruins over time. Perched high on a mountaintop overlooking the popular sledding zone of the same name, the Eagle Pass Fire Lookout was first constructed back in 1922 as a lookout for CP Rail operations. It was later used for its incredible vantage as a fire lookout, before technology made manned observation postings unnecessary. Over the years, lightning, strong winds and heavy snowfall conspired to destroy the upper portion of the structure and damage the foundation. Then, in 2016, a local group of enthusiasts decided to investigate the possibility of repairing the structure. After receiving a verbal go-ahead from Front Counter BC, the group proceeded with the renovation, which took an estimated 500 hours of volunteer time and required as much as $45,000 worth of donated materials—at no cost to the public. Renovations made include a repaired foundation and new walls, windows and roof. The lookout has also been improved with a new stove, bunk beds, mattresses and solar lighting system.
14 | ISSUE 13
“
After receiving a verbal go-ahead, volunteers put an estimated 500 hours of work and $45,000 worth of materials into the renovation—at no cost to the public.”
However, near completion of the project, a local non-motorized group came forward to argue that proper authority to renovate the historic structure had not been granted, and thus the project became subject to investigation under the Forest and Range Practices Act. Since the controversy, the renovation has gained support from the District of Sicamous, Splatsin First Nation, Shuswap MLA Greg Kyle, the Sicamous and District Chamber of Commerce and the Columbia Shuswap Regional District. It is hoped that the outcome of the investigation will determine that the efforts of the builders were not in contravention of the act, and that the site will be ordered to be left in its renovated state, rather than returned to its previously ruined and unusable condition. However, in the meantime, riders enjoying the Eagle Pass area may look up at the highest peak in the area at dusk and see the solar lights of the lookout spark to life as a sign of respect to the First Nation and outdoorsmen of the past who toiled in this rugged place.
BOLD NEW LOOK HIGH PERFORMANCE
B O O ST L ITE MONOSUIT
The all new Boost Monosuit features bold new styling with the added performance benefit of sublimated logos in order to eliminate snow and ice build up, increased waterproofing and durability. Compatible with the all-new removable mono liner for extra versatility and insulation - sold separately
Photo by Colin Wallace
What goes up must come down.
For epic sledding head to Golden, B.C. Golden is your destination for big mountain snowmobiling. With three core alpine areas plus hundreds of kilometres of groomed trails, and multiple snowmobile tour and rental operators in town, you can be guaranteed a great experience, whether you are an advanced mountain shredder, beginner, or a family. BACK TO THE LAND B&B Just 7kms from Golden, this eco-sensitive log home backs onto crown land trails. Featuring organic beds, linens, towels, toiletries, private ensuite bathrooms with balcony or terrace.
250-272-2885 www.BackToTheLand.ca
TRAVELODGE GOLDEN Best sled rates in Golden. Ample parking, hot tub, pool & waterslide with sauna. Canada Select 3.5 star rating. Walking distance to lounges & restaurants. Snowmobile packages available.
250-344-2915 www.travelodge.ca
PRESTIGE INN GOLDEN Conveniently located, reasonably priced with comfortable accommodations, we offer a pool, hot tub, fitness room, restaurant, liquor store, games and more. Earn Rewards or Aeroplan Miles on each night!
250-344-7990 www.prestigehotelsandresorts.com
tourismgolden.com
Behind the Scenes Riley Suhan gets a green 509 Volume 12 light to shred the ski slopes of his hometown Kicking Horse Mountain Resort
Ever been to a ski hill and thought to yourself, man! I sure would love to ride my sled up here...? You’re not the only one. Yet we all know perfectly well that joyriding a sled around a ski resort is a great way to get arrested in a hurry. That is unless you have 509, the Golden Snowmobile Club, Tourism Golden and Kicking Horse Mountain Resort (KHMR) in your corner, all working together to help make the dream of one lucky rider come true. That fortunate sledder is none other than born-and-bred Golden local, Riley Suhan. Suhan has spent his entire life looking up at the peaks that dominate the skyline to the west of town—peaks that since 1986 have been off-limits to anyone astride a recreational motorized vehicle. But that changed for two days last April, when Suhan was given the green light to unleash his sled on the rugged ski slopes of KHMR for a special segment in 509 Volume 12.
A lot of planning goes into filming at the best of times. But when so many parties must be involved, the window of opportunity to get shots in the can is often finite and absolute. Two days of shooting (no more, no less) were scheduled well in advance, and the segment would be filmed regardless of conditions. When the time came, Mother Nature, in her whimsy, unfortunately decided that the film crew should battle low visibility and overcast conditions for much of the shoot. Without the warmth of the sun to heat up the late-spring snow on the upper mountain—which was frozen stiff—Suhan was largely confined to gooning around at the base of the mountain where it was warmer. The consummate professional that he is, Suhan took to the features of the lower mountain like a champ. He made use of berms, banks and cattracks to launch his sled before the unconventional backdrop of ski-hill infrastructure. It was fun to watch Suhan find creative ways to incorporate unique features—like a steel staircase—into his riding.
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 17
“
Suhan had been handed a once–in–a–lifetime chance to shred the off–limits peaks he’d been staring at for more than twenty years..
”
When the clouds did eventually break, the crew was prepared to make the most of the good light and softening snow in the alpine. There was no holding back for Suhan at that point; he’d been handed a once-in-a-lifetime chance to shred the off-limits peaks that he’d been staring at for more than twenty years. The opportunity would not go to waste, and 509 Volume 12 will forever serve as a reminder of the time that Suhan and his sled rode roughshod over the ski hill.
18 | ISSUE 13
Ready to pick out your new truck and sled? Visit us online and start shopping!
WE DELIVER ANYWHERE IN CANADA
7425 100 Avenue Peace River, Alberta
7501 100 Avenue Peace River, Alberta
MIGHTYPEACEPOWERSPORTS.CA
MIGHTYPEACEGM.CA
780.617.8080
780.624.3681
THE
GEAR CACHE ALPYNE APPAREL HEAD FOR THE HILLS HOODIE $59.99 If a home-grown company from Saskatchewan tells you to Head for the Hills, you should do it.
1. D IVA-TECH BALACLAVA $24.99 Made of a slightly heavier weight and with the option to wear over your mouth or under the chin, which of course, means the option of eating the baklava is back on the table.
2. 509 PRO BALACLAVA MIDWEIGHT $59.95 Popular with bankrobbers/those who demand warmth, 509’s midweight balaclava offers full coverage, including the mouth, so don’t even try to eat that baklava while wearing it.
3. FLY RACING IGNITOR BALACLAVA $53
1 2
MOUNTAIN LAB GEAR X1000 $149.99 It’s bright. It’s light. It’s sure to excite. Also, it’s waterproof, has a GoPro mount AND can mount on your handlebars AND has a spiffy case. It’s alright!
FXR TRANSFER SHORT CUFF $100 We demand a lot from an undercuff glove. At the very least, you need to be able to get them on. FXR’s high-strength pull-on loop makes more of a difference than you might think..
MOUNTAIN LAB GEAR POCKET CHAINSAW $29.95 Psst...this pocket-sized chainsaw is about to become your favourite backcountry item.
20 | ISSUE 13
3.
509 FREERIDE $119.95 These gloves feel like you could use them to pick a lock, steal a car and drive to Mexico for the weekend. Or ride a snowmobile with perfectfitting gloves. Whatever.
This rich dessert is made from layers of filo...no, wait — that’s baklava. This super-warm balaclava is not as delicious as baklava, but might make you as happy.
TOBE CAPTO UNDERCUFF $119.95 High quality leather is about to become one of your “must haves” for snowmobile gear. Bring on the matching chaps!
FLY RACING TITLE COLD WEATHER $89 The only glove we tested with Touchscreen Technology in the fingertip and we swiped right in a big way.
GEAR GUIDE HIGHMARK SPIRE $1,059
HIGHMARK CHARGER $899
BCA FLOAT MTNPRO VEST $849.95
The Spire Vest fits from a S to a 3XL and is the only Vest with the Protection Airbag System (that life-jacket looking one), so we dare you to find a reason not to wear an airbag this season.
This avalanche airbag will give you a supportive hug before whispering in your ear, “Huck it. You’ve GOT this.” Try on the new Charger Vest. You’ve got this.
The combination of avalanche airbag and tek vest in one has always been the selling feature of the MtnPro, but we also like the radio pocket and the option to add on an external shovel carry.
509 KINGPIN GOGGLE BLACK OPS PHOTOCHROMATIC
$159.95
509 pitches these as “affordable AND premium,” though with the photochromatic lens, these come in at a bit higher (worth it!) price point.
509 REVOLVER GOGGLES HI VIS BLACK $189.95 The Revolver has a fancy attachment that allows the lens to flip up, while remaining attached to the frame, meaning you can exhaust any built up moisture AND let people know you’re winking at them.
509 REVOLVER GOGGLES BLACK OPS PHOTOCHROMATIC $279.95 A Photochromatic lens is meant to adjust its tint depending on the light conditions, meaning less squinting, complaining and crashing in flat light.
MOTORFIST PEAK GOGGLE $129.99 You’ll come for the spherical lens and stay for the wide foam area around the lens that eliminates gaps!
509 ALTITUDE CARBON FIBER WHITE TRACE $499.95
FLY RACING F2 CARBON FORGE COLD WEATHER $479
FXR F5 ECE $699.95
It’s light, it’s style-y, it’s comfortable. However, most importantly, it’s got a Fidlock. Don’t know what a Fidlock is? Time to go shopping.
A Carbon Fiber-Kevlar shell makes this helmet light, but the included cold weather kit makes it cozy. And we’re suckers for cozy.
Klim’s super-light carbon helmet is wind-tunnel tested, sure, but it’s designed to vent even at very low speeds to keep you cool while working through technical terrain.
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER SNOW SAW $19.95 If YOU made a saw, we would buy YOUR saw. Return the favour and buy OUR saw (full disclosure: it’s a pretty sweet saw).
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 21
GEAR GUIDE FXR ELEVATION DRY-LINK 2 PC LITE MONOSUIT $870 The world’s first two-piece monosuit?! Zip the bib pants to the jacket with the removable Dri-Link system. There’s even a monosuit liner sold seperately! The future is now!
509 EVOLVE JACKET AND BIB $449.95 / $399.95
TOBE NOVO JACKET AND BIB $629.95 / $629.95
509 claims these are for the snowmobiler who “tackles the harshest terrain in the backcountry,” but you’ll probably also enjoy them if you “shovel the heaviest snow from your driveway.”
If your standard is “100% waterproof, 100% windproof,” the Novo is your jam. If looking damn good is also on your list, you’re still covered.
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER FIRST AID KIT $49.95
MOTORFIST ALPHA BOOT $489.99 Once of the softer boots we tried on, the new Alpha boot is a true foot haven and ideal for those who have a preference for the flexier things in life.
22 | ISSUE 13
TOBE VIVID BOA BOOT $529.95 This responsive, highly customizable snowboard-inspired snowmobile boot can be counted on to dial up your sledding game.
If you’ve ever needed to reattach a limb or preform an appendectomy in the backcountry, you seem like bad luck and we don’t want to sled with you. For everyone other sledder here’s everything you need.
TOBE VIVID MONOSUIT $949.95
MOTORFIST CONTESSA JACKET $399
TOBE FINGO WMNS JACKET $599.95
Hot tip! All TOBE Monosuits are designed to fit the things you wear underneath them – knee braces, tekvests, beer bellies, home-knit wool sweaters, etc. If you’re going commando underneath, it’s recommended that you size down.
This jacket puts your guard up in a big way. Motorfist claims it’s the “most advanced women’s jacket you will find on the market today.” With a jacket this tough, we’re inclined to believe them.
Simple design meets rugged toughness in TOBE’s first women’s jacket. If you’re a lady riding in the mountains in BC, this needs to be on your Christmas list. Trust us.
GEAR GUIDE
BASE LAYERS:
1. DSG DIVA-TECH BASE LAYER SHIRT $54.99 - $69.99 DSG recommends this for temperatures from -15°C to -45°C. Hear that, guys? Your wife’s out in -45°C and you’re slacking in the warming hut.
2. 509 FZN BASE LAYER LVL [1] BASE LAYER SHIRT $79.95 The Lvl [1] is 509’s lightest base layer, meant for active sledders and even more active shovellers.
1
2
3
4 509 TECH ZIP HOODY $109.95
3. FXR VAPOUR 100% MERINO LS TOP $120
You new dinner jacket. The in-laws are going to love it!
This layer battles it all. It’s anti-bacterial, anti-odour, anti-pill and anti-static. What’s it battling for? Your comfort in this 100% Merino wool base.
FXR ELEVATION TECH ZIP-UP $110 When you need a casual jacket that says, “Yeah, it’s snowing in Revy. I won’t be in to work tomorrow.”
4. TOBE TURTLENECK $134.95 Are turtlenecks cool? No. They’re warm and you wish you were wearing one every time it’s below -10°. This one even rides nice and low in the back to keep you extra warm.
FXR ELEVATION LITE PRO DUAL ZONE BOA BOOT $495 Two BOAs and extra height in the calf and tongue make for a responsive and perfectly-fitting boot. It’s also rated to -50°C, so you can enjoy that responsiveness and fit just a little bit longer.
DSG AVID TECHNICAL BOOT WITH BOA $349.99 An HMK boot with a different name, the Avid boot is one of the (oddly) few mid to high performance boots for women.
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 23
GEAR GUIDE
CFR BOONDOCKER HANDLEBAR $144.95 - $154.95
FLY RACING DAN ADAMS NXT LVL HANDLEBAR $105
CFR CROW BAR HANDLEBAR $139.95 TOBE STIPS SHIRT $89.95
MAMMUT ALUGATOR LIGHT SHOVEL $79.95
Flannel is the new formal. Embrace this sentiment and go formal on a daily basis.
This shovel weighs an unbelievable 460g, meaning it weighs only slightly more than the ice cold can of Pils you responsibly enjoy when you return home after a day of sledding.
FLOAT 3 EVOL QS3-R $1,999 BOULDER MESH SNAPBACK HAT $34.99 Remember, snapbacks are as cool now as when you played t-ball.
QS3 means you can Quickly Switch between 3 specifically calibrated settings (soft, medium, and firm) with a flip of a switch to adapt to varying riding conditions. Genius!
MAMMUT 280 CARBON PROBE $109.95 If you struggle with weight and weight loss, it’s probably because you don’t have a carbon probe that weighs just 290g!
24 | ISSUE 13
shop
msd MOUNTAIN SPORTS DIRECT
YOUR BEST SOURCE FOR ONLINE DEALS AND HARD TO FIND SLED GEAR
COMING THIS WINTER!
SHOPMSD.COM
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 25
The
Renshaw WORDS AND PHOTOS BY COLIN WALLACE
If exploring every corner of Renshaw is on your agenda, then plan on being in town for a few days. Even in good weather and with easy travel conditions, one day will not be nearly enough time to see all of what Renshaw has to offer. You could spend a lifetime discovering all of The Renshaw’s secrets. Although McBride is a little farther to get to than some other popular destinations, the extra effort is worth it. The local Big Country Snowmobile Association is very active and committed to providing excellent grooming, well-maintained facilities and a top-notch riding experience.
RIDING
Mostly alpine bowls, with some trees down low DRIVE
11km paved from McBride 6km gravel FSR TRAIL
30km groomed trail
26 | ISSUE 13
The Renshaw is McBride’s flagship area, boasting the largest managed riding area in BC. Renshaw offers riding for everyone from 7 to 77, with a good mix of low-angle and super-steep alpine terrain.
RIDE GUIDE Spirit Lake
Backside Meadows Mount Renshaw
Weinberg’s Bowl Blackwater Meadows
The Saddle
The Ladder
Drop of Doom
Saddle Bowl
Wolverine Bowl Renshaw Bowl Wolverine Meadows
Anthills
Pullman Peak
The Meadows Renshaw Cabin Showoff Hill
Cabin Meadows
Upper Meadows
Sleeper Peak
OTHER FEATURES
Largest managed snowmobile area in BC Newly renovated warm-up cabin Good mix of low-angle and steep alpine terrain Fewer riding options on low-visibility days
TO THE TRAILHEAD On Hwy 16 in McBride, head east for 1km. Turn left onto Mountain View Road, which parallels the valley on the east side of the Fraser River for 16km. The way there is straightforward, but watch out for the occasional pothole! At the end of the road, you’ll find a mammoth double parking lot, which can accommodate your monster truck and multi-place trailer without issue. Staging doesn’t get any easier than this! Grab your day pass and a trail map from the booth attendant before heading up the trail. TO THE ZONE The trail is straightforward with no intersections until 23km and 27km, both of which can be used to gain access to a flat valley bottom called The Meadows. From there you can climb up to Blackwater Meadows, deeper in the zone. Or, continue straight for another 2.5km (from the 27km turnoff ) to arrive at the cabin and the start of the main Renshaw riding area.
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 27
RIDE GUIDE
“
Saddle Bowl
Showoff Hill
Most of the riding at The Renshaw is in the open alpine. The best time to go is on a bluebird day with good stability.”
Showoff Hill with Upper Meadows in the background
THE RIDING
Stop to pull out a camera, because the views from this ridge are spectacular.
Having a map and good navigational skills or riding with someone who knows the area is a must on grey, low-visibility days at The Renshaw. There are fingers of trees that can be used as handrails to help with travel here and there, but most of the riding is in the open alpine. The best time to go is on a bluebird day with good stability.
Continue beyond the ridge, then drop in a northeast direction down the only obvious saddle. At the bottom is a lake flanked by north-facing slopes that feature well-preserved snow, sheltered from the wind and the sun.
Although expert riding ability isn’t strictly required to get around at Renshaw, there are still many places in which even skilled riders can get themselves into trouble. For the most part however, a good portion of Renshaw’s terrain can be reasonably accessed with intermediate ability on a modern sled.
Following the drainage to the northwest will funnel the rider down a sometimes-icy slope to Spirit Lake. The north-facing trees around the lake offer some of the best tree riding in the entire area. There are steep, denselytreed technical sidehills for the advanced rider and mellow-spaced trees for the beginner and everyone in-between. These are the goods when the alpine is tracked out.
Heading northwest from the cabin through Cabin Flats towards Mount Renshaw requires a sustained but manageable sidehill. The route offers a couple of different ways to access Backside Meadows. The first is to climb up and over The Ladder, which, at 2100m, is the first pass on the right. The second way is to drop down 100m below Renshaw Peak and start the climb up to Saddle Bowl and over The Saddle, which tops out at a similar elevation.
Back at the cabin, Showoff Hill (or Idiot Hill depending on who you ask) is visible just 500m to the southwest. It’s a small but steep slope that tempts hillclimbers with the desire to showcase their machines to a captive audience at the cabin. A little farther past Showoff Hill to the southeast is a small area called Upper Meadows. It consists of a little alpine bowl with a couple of tiny lakes, below Sleeper Peak.
Dropping left into Blackwater Meadows past The Saddle offers riders of various ability levels plenty of terrain choices from tree riding to high alpine climbs. For the more adventurous rider, heading over the pass to the northwest offers a steep descent into Weinberg’s Bowl—a north-facing area below Methodist Peak. Weinberg’s Bowl has snow that tends to stay light, dry and preserved during long, sunny spells.
A great overview of the area can be had from Pullman Peak, just about 1.5km due east of the cabin, which can be accessed via a mellow ridgeline. Directly below Pullman Peak to the northeast is Wolverine Meadows, which offers more easy alpine riding.
Heading in a northerly direction from The Saddle sets the rider up for an easy alpine climb to an unnamed ridge below a sub-peak called Renshaw NW4.
28 | ISSUE 13
To the north of Renshaw Bowl, riders can use the Drop Of Doom to access the Backside Meadows; the Drop Of Doom is not as bad as it sounds and can sometimes be an easier route on the way back to the cabin than The Ladder or The Saddle.
BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA
RIDE #TheRealStoke www.SeeRevelstoke.com
Check the forecast. PHOTO: RYEN DUNFORD RIDER: BRODIE EVANS www.avalanche.ca
Hidden Danger WORDS BY GOLDEN AND DISTRICT SEARCH AND RESCUE ILLUSTRATION BY VERN STEWART
Crevasse Fall and Other Hazards of Sledding on a Glacier Powerful sleds and strong riders have opened the door to complex mountainous terrain in the backcountry. Sledders are now pushing deeper into the mountains than ever before, and in doing so, gaining access to the remote and breathtaking glaciers and icecaps of BC. However, recent glacier crevasse fall accidents are a tragic consequence of unprepared riders venturing into unforgiving mountains. Fortunately, these accidents can be avoided when riders become aware of the hazards involved in glacier travel, and gain the skill set required to navigate this type of complex winter terrain safely. Here are some key concepts to help inform riders about the dangers associated with riding on glaciers and icecaps. Be advised that this information is presented for awareness only, and in no way replaces qualified instruction and mentorship from an accredited source such as a member of the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides.
30 | ISSUE 13
IDENTIFYING THE FEATURES OF A GLACIER The ability to recognize and understand the features and hazards of a glacier is the first step towards eventually riding one safely; this knowledge can mean the difference between an enjoyable rip in some really deep snow and falling deep into the bowels of an icy prison. To the right are some key features that will help you recognize glaciated terrain and some of its hazards.
CREVASSE HAZARD AND WHAT TO LOOK FOR
SAFETY
Aside from the potential for avalanches—which must always be considered in the mountains—crevasse hazard is the biggest concern when riding a glacier. A crevasse is a deep fracture in glacier ice which occurs as a result of the flowing nature of the ice. These are most often formed where tension or compression is caused within the glacier by a change in direction or slope. Where a glacier pours over a very steep drop, an icefall can be formed, which can unpredictably shed massive chunks of ice downhill. A moulin is a circular, well-like hole that presents a fall hazard similar to that of a crevasse. These extend vertically downward and carry meltwater deep into the glacier.
Moat A large gap between a glacier and an adjacent rock face, where the snow has melted away from the heat of the warmer rock.
Bergschrund A giant crevasse that forms across a slope between the upper-limit of the moving glacier and the permanent snow or underlying rock on the slope above.
ARE WE ON A GLACIER NOW? Crevasse A large, deep crack in glacier ice that can trap a fallen victim. These can be exposed, or hidden beneath a snow bridge.
Marginal Crevasses Crevasses which tend to form along the lateral edges of a glacier.
Terminus The lowest end of the glacier. These may be rugged, with steep and partially collapsing towers of ice.
KNOW WHERE THEY FORM Crevasses typically form where: A glacier is forced to bend around a corner The angle of the underlying slope increases The outside edges of the glacier move slower than the middle The glacier narrows or widens A rock feature penetrates the surface of the glacier Two glaciers flow into one
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 31
SAFETY
THE ANATOMY OF A CREVASSE
SNOW BRIDGE
HOW TO IDENTIFY CREVASSE HAZARD
NEW SNOW
Clear weather and good visibility is clutch for glacier travel. Good light will allow a rider a better chance to spot open crevasses and other hazards. Try to guarantee clear weather all day by planning your ride to take place during a highpressure system. Get familiar with the terrain beforehand by looking at photos of the glacier or asking around for local knowledge. On the day, try to get a good view of the glacier from different vantage points first, before tackling it.
CREVASSE
GLACIER ICE
Look for depressions in the snow. Sagging trenches in the snow can indicate a crevasse bridged over and “hidden” by a layer of snow.
THE DANGERS OF FALLING
LET’S MOVE
• S ledder falls into crevasse and suffers trauma, potentially lifethreatening.
• S ledder falls into crevasse and becomes hypothermic during a prolonged extrication.
• S ledder falls into crevasse and is buried by a collapsing snow bridge. This essentially becomes an avalanche burial scenario, except that the rescuers are not easily able to reach the victim.
• S ledder falls into crevasse and group does not have the rescue gear required or is incapable of extracting the victim.
Traveling Safely on a Glacier Glacier travel should only be attempted by those properly trained and with experience. The best strategy for glacier travel is avoidance of hazards; first learn what the hazards are and where they form, and then use that information to steer clear of those areas. Ride at a medium pace and scan with your eyes. Moving too quickly across a glacier might prevent you from recognizing a hidden crevasse with enough time to avoid it by changing course. On the other hand, moving too slowly may unnecessarily expose you (and the full weight of your sled) to a hidden snowbridge. Travel perpendicular to slots in the snow when crossing near a suspected snow bridge or crevasse. This ensures that only one sledder is exposed at a time. Travel in single file to further reduce exposure. Stop often to reconnect with your group and to evaluate the terrain to ensure you’re out of harm’s way, especially before and after crossing suspect areas. Use your avalanche probe to check for hidden crevasses! Before you step off your sled, probe to see you haven’t parked on a crevasse. A sudden
32 | ISSUE 13
lack of resistance in the snow indicates a hole. Warn the rest of your group and move away from the crevasse. Due to the transportation of snow by wind across terrain, snow depth on glaciers can vary drastically. Throughout the day, get in the practice of using your probe to check snow coverage on the glacier. Deeper, wellsettled snow means stronger snow bridges over crevasses. Avoid thin areas with snow less than 2m deep, or areas where the snowpack doesn’t get progressively firmer as you plunge in your probe. If hillclimbing is on your agenda, watch for the bergschrundwhich may exist where the glacier recedes from the permanent snow near the base of a rock slope. Warming and cooling temperatures may weaken snow bridges throughout the afternoon and early evening. The safest time to travel is early in the morning when the snowpack is frozen and strong. Do you know where you are? Weather can move in fast; you can lose visibility, points of reference and your tracks quickly, all of which can obscure your safe route home.
RESCUE What to Do If Someone Falls In Try to make contact—using a radio or your voice, without putting yourself in danger of falling in as well. Initiate EMS with your PLB or sat phone. Build a T-slot anchor—Tie a length of cord to a shovel handle or stuff sack and bury it deep in the snow. Secure the rope to your anchor and lower it to the victim. Tie into the rope, establish the edge and make contact. Be careful not to collapse a snow bridge when approaching a victim in a crevasse! Have the victim stabilize themselves by tying into the rope. A victim may also stabilize their position by using an ice screw and tying into that with a sling of climbing cord. Prepare the edge with padding (a shovel or pack) so the rope does not become entrenched in the snow. Haul the victim out manually if possible, otherwise, wait for rescue if initiated.
INTRODUCING THE ALL NEW BARRYVOX® SERIES MORE POWERFUL. EASIER. FASTER.
BARRYVOX® S Completely revised user interface. Performance brings benefits only if the user can tap into it as simply as possible. Mammut has therefore carried out a complete revision of the operation of the Barryvox®, from front to back. From an easy-to-read display to buttons that can be operated even wearing gloves, shock-proof and break-proof housing, intuitive acoustic search guidance and a revolutionary simple visual interface, the Barryvox® shows that powerful performance does not need to be complicated.
MAMMUT.COM MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 33
WHAT’S IN YOUR KIT? Be Prepared and Ready for a Fall First the bad news: there’s a fair bit of gear that you’ll need in addition to your usual avalanche safety, first-aid and survival kits. But here’s the good news: with storage, there’s room on your sled to carry it all. Rope rescue gear can live on your sled permanently, or at least when you know you’ll be heading onto the ice. Without proper rope rescue equipment, there’s no safe way to perform a rescue without putting the rest of the group in danger and potentially making the situation worse. But carrying this gear with no knowledge of how to use it isn’t going to do you any favours either. First, you’ll need to learn—from a certified professional—how to properly and safely perform a crevasse rescue. Once you’re trained up, this is the gear that you’ll need to save the day.
1 ICE SCREW ROPE Carry at least 30m of 8mm diameter (minimum) dry rope.
HARNESS Each person in the group should wear their own climbing harness at all times while on the glacier.
This is an anchor which can be placed by the crevasse fall victim to help stabilize their position while a rope rescue is initiated.
2 PRUSIK-MINDING PULLEYS Pulleys are used to reduce friction and create mechanical advantage—like a block and tackle system—to aid in the rescue.
2X 5M LENGTHS OF 5MM CLIMBING CORD OR MECHANICAL ASCENDERS
2X 5M LENGTHS OF 7MM CLIMBING CORD OR RUNNERS
At least 4 of which should have locking gates.
BELAY DEVICE It can be used to belay a rescuer near the lip or into a crevasse to assist a victim.
These are used to ascend a rope in a self-rescue, or to build a mechanical advantage system to haul out a victim.
These are used for building anchors.
PERSONAL LOCATOR BEACON (PLB) OR SATELLITE PHONE If you don’t know how to perform a crevasse rescue or don’t have the right gear, you better at least be able to call for help, or the outlook is certainly going to get much worse for your friend in the hole. Even with the proper gear to perform a rescue, the victim may still require emergency services for trauma sustained in the fall or hypothermia.
WARMTH Carry with you a spare insulating layer such as a micro-down jacket, a toque and dry gloves. If you’re the victim of a fall into an icy crevasse, do your best to get some warm layers on. Think about the time of day. It can get dark at 4pm in the mountains in BC in winter, and helicopters can’t fly in the dark. Are you prepared to spend the night?
GPS AND A MAP Those are crucial for safely navigating vast glacier terrain, especially when the visibility is less than ideal.
34 | ISSUE 13
8 CARABINERS
Always remember that crevasse fall hazard is a very real and constant concern when travelling on any glacier! Even simple, low-angle glaciers and icefields commonly explored by sledders are not without danger. A simple fall into a small crevasse can rapidly become a life-threatening situation, even for a well-prepared party. However, gaining the knowledge and experience necessary to travel in glacier terrain isn’t difficult. But just like avalanche rescue techniques, crevasse rescue skills require training and practice, practice, practice to be effective. Gaining these skills will allow riders to push safely farther into some incredibly beautiful and remote, mountainous terrain. Golden and District Search and Rescue is a 100% volunteer-run, not-for-profit organization which has operated in Golden, BC for more than 50 years.
GOLDEN SNOWMOBILE RENTALS PREMIUM SNOWMOBILE RENTALS & SAFETY EQUIPMENT
1.888.SLEDNOW (753.3669) GOLDENSNOWMOBILERENTALS.COM
GOLDEN, BC PARTS / SALES / SERVICE 250.344.6100 | MOUNTAINMOTORSPORTS.CA
Avalanche Airbags Shovels, Probes & Transceivers Package Deals Rentals & Expert Advice
AvalancheSafety.ca Free Shipping on Orders Over $100 1.888.742.8769 | Located in Golden, BC MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 35
OPTIMISM ABROAD We travelled for 24 hours straight to arrive in the dark of night at the Saxnäsgården Hotell in northern Sweden. Come morning, I would finally be shredding in another country— exploring new terrain and foreign snow that lie far across the big pond and 13 lines of longitude from home. But for the moment I was just excited to go to bed, so I could wake up and see the land in the light of day. Prior to leaving home, I had been warned that the Scandinavian country was in the midst of an unusually dry winter. I had chosen not to accept the reports. I was here now, and maybe all we needed was one good storm. After all, things can change overnight—and often do. But I wouldn’t find out until morning. Working as a sled guide for the past seven years at home in Revelstoke, BC, I have crossed paths with many Swedish sledders. As a general rule, the Swedes I have met are talented riders who can’t sit still for a minute, are stoked at all times, and like to burn a lot of gas in a day regardless of the conditions. They are up for any kind of adventure and I would be lying if I said that they don’t like to party. Every time I’ve guided a Swedish group, it ends up feeling like I’m riding with a group of buds I’ve known for years—friends who share a respect for the mountains and a desire to push further and farther. These people have instilled in me a desire to meet more Swedes, and eventually visit their homeland one day. I knew long before my trip that the terrain in Sweden is like an anthill compared to the mountains in the interior of BC. But knowing that fact made me even more curious about the homeland of these talented and optimistic riders. I wanted to discover the land from which this passionate breed of humans comes forth.
36 | ISSUE 13
A Revelstoke Shredder Finds True Passion for Her Sport in Sweden WORDS BY NADINE OVERWATER PHOTOS BY JOAKIM KOSTET
And so came my wish. After years of nagging my friend Stephanie LaroySchwartz to bring me on one of her Swedish riding trips, the call finally came. I was headed for Saxnäs, a little community almost 800km north of Stockholm and less than 100km east of the Norwegian border. There, along with my local shred buddy Shelley Ferguson, I would act as a guest coach at the XX Freeriders Camp—an incredibly well-organized event that brings more than 60 women from all over the European continent to one place to share their love of sledding. At the hotel, I was the first up in the morning. With a cup of steaming coffee in hand, I was ready to get after the day. The hotel was amazing in the light of day: five-star accommodation with a beautiful location and amazing service. Unfortunately, the snow conditions were the opposite; the view outside the huge panoramic windows in the great room displayed my fate.
After a meet-and-greet with the rest of the jet-lagged coaches, we were handed the keys to some brand-new Ski-Doo 850 Gen 4 Summits— compliments of dealers, Lindblads Motors and B. Lundstrom. The sleds still had tags on them, and I couldn’t help but think oh my, there sure are a lot of scratchy looking trees out there on the horizon. And I was quite certain that the matching rocks were only nanometers below the surface. I sure hope they have insurance on these babies. Either way, it was time to ride. We had one day to scope out the terrain before the girls would arrive for the clinic.
PHOTOS: NADINE OVERWATER
It was cold and the snow windblown, and for miles on end I could see brush and birch trees lacking coverage. The only piles of snow in the parking lot looked like they had been pushed up over a month prior. There were not many people around, let alone sleds or trucks. I went for a short walk to explore the village and had various locals tell me that this was the worst winter they had seen in 30 years. Great. And so the story goes that my optimism about a conditions reset was misplaced. But, like they say, adversity breeds creativity. Whoever they are, I was about to test their theory.
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 37
The wind was blowing as we ventured out to explore the hills across Lake Kultsjön. As we crossed the lake the wind grew stronger, and in Mother Nature’s amusement she spun our sleds around backward and blew us across the lake with no hope of getting back until the wind died down. Instead, we went the other way and travelled for over 100km exploring all the nearby areas with our fantastic tour guides—Johan Lundström, Viktor Lindblad, Erika Lindblad and Carro Ohlsson. We found all kinds of terrain that would be great for the clinic. There was just one problem; the maximum depth my probe entered into the snow the whole day was just 60cm. The lack of snow didn’t seem to matter though. Just like every Swede I’d encountered prior to this trip, the prevailing attitudes were of positivity and excitement. We climbed into ice caves and sidehilled hardpack. We put the first scratches on brand new machines and boondocked through scrubby birch. We climbed the highest plateaus. And we saw a whole new country through the lens of the backcountry—a country full of respect and natural beauty, where reindeer roam and wood-fired hot tubs fill the air with steam. I wouldn’t trade that experience for a million bucks, despite the lousy conditions. By the following morning the ladies had arrived, and we spent the next four days getting extremely creative and searching out every patch of snow that wasn’t bulletproof. In the end it was a success. There were smiles for days, great food, laughter and a lot of wheelies. I am quite certain those women exited the womb with the ability to pin it. The ladies were fearless and naturally talented and, I might add, very, very bright. It didn’t matter that it was overcast; there was enough light reflecting off all the fluorescent outerwear for days on end. It was like being surrounded by a pack of tropical Skittles all day long. I was also very excited that I managed to survive five days straight of riding without bending any metal or breaking any plastic.
“
The lack of snow didn’t seem to matter though. Just like every Swede I’d encountered prior to this trip, the prevailing attitudes were of positivity and excitement. We climbed into ice caves and sidehilled hardpack.”
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 39
And so this trip has made me understand why Swedes make such desirable companions. They have a true passion for snowmobiling— one that burns so deep that even the shittiest snow in 30 years cannot extinguish. One that ignites your spirit. Passion so strong cannot go unshared with like-minded souls, no matter the distance. From the Swedish people I have learned that being able to do something you love is the greatest gift. We should take full advantage of that ability every chance we get, regardless of poor conditions or other adversity. Sometimes you have to reach far and wide to find some fresh snow and in this case I definitely searched far. Although I didn’t find the freshest of snow, I did find a fresh outlook on my love of this sport. Even though I have the most incredible backyard, I will never stop the pursuit of exploring the world through the eyes of her mountains.
“
From the Swedish people I have learned that being able to do something you love is the greatest gift.”
PHOTO: NADINE OVERWATER
40 | ISSUE 13
.
..
s
s
2.0 SERIES PERFORMANCE SHELL
.b
.
lu
101 INSULATED SERIES
w
101 SHELL JACKET & INSULATED BIB
....
The Fresh Set of Tracks film crew explores the vast and rugged landscape of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula BY CODY MCNOLTY
With a large military presence at the small airport, it felt like a scene from a Cold War movie when I touched down in Kamchatka. The people seemed kind but shy, and as I stood in the cold at the outdoor baggage claim I was alone, and not totally sure what to do. Just then an SUV—jacked-up on huge mud tires—pulled up, and out popped a young man and woman. They were my contacts here, and they greeted me kindly in sparse English. Immediately we set off into the town of Kamchatka to pickup supplies, food and some craft beer for my stay on the peninsula. Once stocked up, we travelled for hours out of town on skinny, paved roads towards our remote destination, where we would be filming a segment for a new sledding film. Along the way, my hosts and I talked, shared words from each other’s language and became friends. The last hour of driving was along a side road that had never been plowed; the snow had been packed down just enough by 4x4 commercial vehicles travelling over it to make it passable. After some temporary stucks and a few stops to drop off supplies at homes along the way, we finally arrived at the illustrious Snow Valley Lodge, deep in Kamchatka. I had never heard of Snow Valley Lodge before, but I know now that for decades it has hosted Olympic athletes, professional skiers and snowboarders like Travis Rice, and many famous actors from Europe. It was there that I met up with the rest of the international crew of producers, filmers and riders. We made fast plans to start riding and filming the next morning.
I honestly can’t tell you why, but ever since I was a child I have dreamed of travelling to Russia in the winter. In the spring of 2016, my phone rang with a strange country code and a number I didn’t recognize. That was not terribly surprising, considering that I am lucky to have friends and family all over the world. But when I answered, an unforgettable voice with a Swedish accent replied, “Hey buddy!” It was my friend Simon Selberg, calling from his home in Stockholm. I had only ever met Simon in person once—in Revelstoke back in Winter 2015—when we had doubled on a ratty old Polaris over open-water (in street shoes no less) to access a hot spring. He was calling to ask if I wanted to be part of a film project called Fresh Set of Tracks. It would consist of three snowmobile athletes travelling to three countries over the course of two seasons. Fresh Set of Tracks would be the very first international backcountry sledding documentary. I replied immediately: “I’m in!”
42 | ISSUE 13
THE LAND OF FIRE AND ICE
“
By early afternoon we arrived at an active volcano, which we set out to climb up, over and inside.”
PHOTOS: RICKARD LÖVGREN
That spring, the production team was assembled. The filming would be undertaken by Simon and his colleague Rickard Lövgren, with secondary camera work by Joachim Hygglo. These three would also be responsible for the effort required to raise endorsement and sponsorship for this bold and expensive project. Next, three international snowmobile athletes were selected: Simon would represent Sweden; Duncan Lee, the United States; and me, Canada. And finally, the first location of the Fresh Set of Tracks project was announced. And that’s how it came to be that in February 2017, I embarked on a 55-hour commute from Vancouver to the southeast region of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula.
PHOTO: SIMON SELBERG
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 43
GEAR
MOUNTAIN
ESSENTIAL BACKCOUNTRY PRODUCTS ATV + SNOWMOBILE + BIKE + DIRT + CAMP + HUNT
ULTIMATE BACKCOUNTRY HAND CHAINSAW
1000 LUMEN FLASHILIGHT SYSTEM
GoPro COMPATIBLE
MOUNTAINLABGEAR.COM 44 | ISSUE 13
PHOTO: JOACHIM HYGGLO
At 6am the next morning, I don’t think I had ever been so excited; I felt like a puppy, bouncing and shaking and tripping over my own feet. We went into the lodge and sat down to a homemade breakfast with fresh fruit, Russianstyle pancakes, oatmeal (I think?) and scrambled eggs. We took our packed lunches and thermoses and headed out to our sleds, where we met our guides, Volva and Jussi.
The snow was warm the first couple days of riding, with conditions similar to what’s regularly found in the Coast Range back home in BC. We found epic trees and valleys to ride, and spent the majority of those initial days filming tree lines and descent lines while we battled foggy conditions. Riding Ski-Doo Summits clutched for sea-level elevation was an element of riding new to me! The response and upshifting of the secondary made the 800cc sleds feel like completely different machines! Every mountain snowmobiler knows that feeling you get the first time you see a new zone under bluebird skies. Now imagine that experience, but in a foreign land, on a peninsula that is actively volcanic and covered by several meters of snow. Imagine waking up and knowing that you are going to cover over 100km on a snowmobile that day. You’re going to ride to then hike into an active volcano. For the riders and crew of Fresh Set of Tracks, this imagination was our reality. Temperatures reaching nearly -30°C that morning made for bitter conditions to cover the big, open mountain terrain we would need to traverse to make our destination. The vast landscape we crossed made my local zones back home in Whistler and Pemberton seem tiny by comparison.
PHOTOS: RICKARD LÖVGREN
In Kamchatka, the mountainous backcountry isn’t used only by adventurous snowmobilers, skiers and snowboarders like it is back home. There is an entire industrial zone out there! Large bulldozers build snow roads, while tracked-vehicles transport workers into power plants that use the heat from the volcanic earth to create electric power. Seeing such industry as we passed through on our sleds was truly remarkable.
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 45
By early afternoon we arrived at an active volcano, which we set out to climb up, over and inside. The path up the volcano looked sketchy though. As we walked up, I turned to my Russian guide and asked, “Is this really the best way in?” He looked at me as if I had asked a stupid question. In his Russian accent he replied, “Of course!” and we continued our climb. Once up and over, we were warm enough to sit on bare earth and strip down to our t-shirts to have lunch. Words cannot describe the feeling of sitting there while active, heated sulphuric pressures were released out of the volcano, reaching all the way to the sky. By the time we made it back to Snow Valley Lodge that evening we were cold, tired and hungry; yet we were left feeling more satisfied than any other day on the mountains before.
By the time we made it back to Snow Valley Lodge that evening we were cold, tired and hungry; yet we were left feeling more satisfied than any other day on the mountains before.”
PHOTO: RICKARD LÖVGREN
“
PHOTO: SIMON SELBERG
PHOTO: DUNCAN LEE
PHOTO: DUNCAN LEE
Over the next few days, the weather provided us with more bluebird skies, and we had the opportunity to discover how far these vast mountain ranges spread. Simon and Rickard were able to capture some truly breathtaking footage, and the snow happened to be pretty freaking amazing too!
As the trip wound down at the end, I parted ways with the crew. Filming the first continent of this project had been a huge success. It proved that a group of passionate snowmobilers are capable of doing anything that is created within the realm of their synergy. And most importantly, I learned that when you’re in Russia, “Vodka is ultimate Russian translator.” I headed for home with some life-changing experiences packed with me. The staff of Snow Valley Lodge and our guides had become more than friends; they had become family. Their kindness and genuine character will stay with me forever. Kamchatka had lived up to its reputation as the land of “fire and ice”, and I was mesmerized by it. To the kind, generous, passionate and wonderful people of Kamchatka, thank you dearly for letting us capture your beauty as part one of Fresh Set Of Tracks. I will be back! Until then, “doh svee dah nee yah” (good-bye)! To learn more about this two-year film project, follow @freshsetoftracks on social media and www.freshsetoftracks.com
46 | ISSUE 13
“I LOVE FINDING AREAS THAT MIGHT GET ME INTO TROUBLE.” TONY JENKINS FOX BACKCOUNTRY TEAM
“THAT SLED WAS A WILD ANIMAL!”
RIDEFOX.COM/BACKCOUNTRY #FOXBACKCOUNTRY
#RIDEFOX MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 47
BY CHRIS BROWN
KONNICHIWA,
JAPAN! PHOTOS: AARON BERNASCONI, CHRIS BROWN, BRIAN HULL
I’ve been wanting to ride sleds in Japan for years. I’ve had many friends go on ski and snowboard trips to Niseko—a little town on Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido— and they have all said that the powder and the culture are amazing. The problem has always been that there are no sled rental places or commercial guides there. Well, it took me two years to put it together, but I lined up sleds, lodging, guides and transportation into one ‘Ride Japan’ package. I already knew everyone who signed up for the maiden voyage (except Greg), so it was like a bunch of buddies going on a sled trip. Greg turned out to be a good dude and fit right in with the rest of our crew. We were all really amped for this trip!
Mount Yotei stands alone in the valley near Niseko where we were based. It’s pretty freaking impressive.
Even though the snow and terrain were unreal, it was the Japanese culture that really topped it all off. On one of our riding days we met up with about 30 Japanese riders who had heard we were in Japan. They took us to a really cool cabin just outside Sapporo.
48 | ISSUE 13
Tomo (the Honeybadger) shows us how they load sleds in Japan. I’m actually looking for a similar truck in Canada now!
This is Clayton’s sled rig with my pink Axys on it. Another solid sled hauler.
When in Japan, you have to wear dust masks...right??
No selfies in Japan?! Ummm... I’m pretty sure Japanese people are the Selfie Masters.
Aaron popping pillows in some of the most fun trees we have ever ridden.
7-11 is where you get everything! Beer, sushi and whatever weird Japanese stuff you can imagine. Aaron especially loved the 7-11 squid.
We did find one sled rental and guiding company while we were there. They didn’t quite have what we were looking for. Although, we really did want to have a race with those old buggies!
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 49
SNOWBIKES
BUMPERS RUNNING BOARDS
FOR RIDERS WHO DEMAND THE ABSOLUTE BEST
SEAT KITS
LIGHT KITS HOOD KITS & SIDEPANELS STEERING SILENCERS ARC KITS PACKS, BAGS & RACKS PROTECTION TOOLS & BATTERIES
Skinz products are stylish with a wide array of colours and styles, designed and built with the highest attention to quality and durability. All products are manufactured to a premium standard in North America. For the demands of serious riders, there is no better name in aftermarket performance than Skinz Protective Gear.
SKINZCANADA.CA
You can get coffee and other hot beverages out of vending machines in Japan! Toilets with so many options so you never leave with a dirty bum!
Our guide, Lincoln, said, “Nobody ever goes down those drainages.” So we did…
Our buddy Clayton owns Black Diamond Lodge in Niseko where we stayed. He’s a solid Canadian and might be the hardest working dude I’ve ever met!
We found some pretty challenging terrain and had a blast pushing each other. Even though it was the “worst” snow year in 30 years, they still had a 2-2.5 meter base (usually 5-6m) and we were rewarded with some fresh JAPOW.
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 51
Did I mention there were NO TRACKS? Unreal terrain and untouched snow...everyday! Imagine endless open tree riding with awesome drainages... and nobody else there.
Our local friend, Aaron, and I after a wicked day shredding just off the highway. This dude and his son are awesome riders. I ended up sending him one of my TOBE jackets as a gift! The Japanese are so happy and so friendly everyday…I can’t wait to go back in January!
Chris Brown is the man behind Ride Whistler and its offerings— including riding clinics, sledding adventures with the pros and destination snowmobiling trips to Japan.
52 | ISSUE 13
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 53
GRANDE PRAIRIE
SWAN HILLS
Grande Prairie Honda & Powersports grandeprairiepowersports.com
Stojans
stojans.com
Windsor Motorsports windsormotorsports.ca
ALBERTA
1.888.532.8010 780.538.2934 1.877.539.1666
Wilderness Playground Tours swanhillssledfixer.com
WAINWRIGHT
Willerton Ski-Doo & Golf Cart willertonskidoo.com
GRASSLAND
WESTEROSE
GTS Powersports & RV
JAB Motorsports
grasslandtrailersales.com
780.525.5820
jabmotorsports.ca
ACHESON
OKOTOKS
WESTLOCK
Cycle Works West/Acheson
Cycleworks Foothills
CC Cycle Ltd.
cycleworksacheson.com
780.960.1920
eckomarine.com
Mighty Peace Power Sports 780.924.3255
bowcyclecalgary.com
Bow Cycle South
bowcyclecalgary.com
Cycle Works Calgary cycleworks.com
Ralph’s Motorsports
ralphsmotorsports.com
thomashomesandrv.com 403.288.5421 403.441.1299 403.230.1920 1.877.972.5747
houseofthunder.ca
ECKVILLE
Rainy Creek Powersports rainycreekpowersports.com
403.746.5000
cycleworksedmonton.com
Martin Motor Sports (South) martinmotorsports.ca
Martin Motor Sports (West) martinmotorsports.ca
Rapid Revolutions
rapidrevolutions.com
The Sled Shop
thesledshop.ca
780.438.2484 780.481.4000 780.455.7533 780.488.6686
riderz.ca
ELK POINT
Jeepheadz
jeepheadz@outlook.com
redneck.barbie@hotmail.com
Cycle Works Red Deer cycleworks.com
synikclothing.com
Turple Bros.
Gateway Sales and Service
crosscountrysales.com
403.346.5238
403.845.2421 403.844.0907
780.384.2215
Gibbons Motor Toys
SUNDRE 780.923.3796
CASTLEGAR/NELSON playmorpower.com 1.866.969.7111
CHILLIWACK
GVP East
604.795.7800
Greffard’s & Greenscapes greffards.ca 250.674.3562
CRANBROOK
Peak Performance Motorsports peakperformancecranbrook.ca
250.417.3310
GOLDEN 780.960.0571
Mountain Motorsports
mountainmotorsports.ca
ST. ALBERT
GIBBONS
linossales.ca 250.692.7045
CLEARWATER
SPRUCE GROVE
Riverside Motosports
Lino’s Sales Ltd
gvps.ca
altitudemotorsports@outlook.com 587.269.4430
abspow.ca
Blue River Sledz
Playmor Power Products
Altitude Motorsports
specialtymotorsports.ca
780.706.2411
BURNS LAKE 403.346.8019
SEDGEWICK
Cross-Country Sales & Service
rpmpowersports.ca
780.352.7887
blueriversledz.com 250.673.8317
Absolute Power & Performance LTD 780.646.0650
hilinepolarissuzuki.com
BLUE RIVER 403.357.1578
Snow Commander Snow Bike Rentals snowcommander.ca
780.349.5277
BRITISH COLUMBIA
ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE
rideriverside.com
gibbonsmotortoysalberta.com
403.704.0489
RED DEER
Specialty Motorsports 780.723.5775
HiLine Polaris Suzuki
RPM Powersports
SHERWOOD PARK
EDSON
Riderz
780.624.2720
780.586.2867
WETASKIWIN
Redneck Barbie Inc.
gatewayss.net 780.440.3200
Westlock Powersports & Marine
WHITECOURT
turplebros.ca
EDMONTON
Cycle Works Edmonton
780.617.8080
780.842.4775
780.349.3343
PONOKA
Synik Clothing 780.608.2000
cccycle.ca
westlockpowersports.ca
RED DEER COUNTY
CAMROSE
House of Thunder
mightypeacepowersports.ca
Thomas Homes & RV Center
CALGARY
Bow Cycle North
403.995.1555
PEACE RIVER
ALBERTA BEACH
Ecko Marine & Powersports
cycleworksfoothills.com
780.333.2800
780.460.9101
KAMLOOPS
Outlaw Motorsports outlawmotorsports.ca
780.458.7272
Mountain’s Edge Cycle & Sled mountainsedgecycleandsled.com 403.638.3885
250.344.6100
250.828.2200
Robin’s Marine & Snowmobile Service robinsms.ca
250.851.0084
RTR Performance rtrperformance.com
250.374.3141
WINNIPEG
KELOWNA
Innerspace Watersports, Inc. innerspacewatersports.com
M&M Performance
mmperformance.com
250.763.2040 250.491.4800
gvps.ca
bdcperformance.ca 1.877.449.2699
NELSON
Main Jet Motorsports 1.877.352.3191
extremepowersports.ca
Full Speed Rentals
fullspeedrentals.com
Infinite Powersports
infinitepowersports.com
Rough Country Marine Ltd rough-country.ca
250.801.8443 250.837.8883
shuswapxtreme.com
Carl Kuster Mountain Park carlkuster.com
alpinecountryrentals.com
Terracana Ranch Resort terracana.com
contant.ca
GRAND FALLS-WINDSOR
VILLE DE QUÉBEC
Islander RV
thruwayrecreation.ca
rapidpowersports.com
Moto Ducharme
motoducharme.com
Gregoire Sport
gregoiresport.com 250.836.3401
motosportlasarre.com 250.566.9774 1.866.968.4304
Groupe Contant contant.ca
Innerspace Watersports Inc.
Groupe Contant
ridersedgesuspension.com
250.549.2040 250.542.0269
WILLIAMS LAKE
Gordo’s Rent-All
gordosrent-all.ca
Spectra Powersports
spectrapowersports.com
Rock Moto Sport
250.392.4222 250.392.3201
contant.ca
1.800.265.2970
ADM Sport
admsport.com
Westside Honda/Polaris 1.888.482.7782
306.948.2426
Boundary Motorsports
boundarymotorsports.com
306.825.4481
PRINCE ALBERT
Prairie Recreation Parts & Access. Ltd. prairierecreation.com 450.755.4444 1.800.791.2442
306.763.8001
REGINA
Agri-Sports
agrisports.ca
306.525.8366
ROCANVILLE 819.333.2249
Universe Satellite Sales universesatellite.com
306.645.2669
SASKATOON 450.666.6676
Proline Motorsports
prolinemotorsports.ca
Recreation Supply
recreationsupply.ca 450.434.6676
ricksperformance@sasktel.net 819.564.8008
306.978.7881 306.664.3560
WEYBURN
Rick’s Performance
306.842.5728
YUKON WHITEHORSE
819.326.6626
ST-HYACINTHE
SELKIRK
418.805.0222
LLOYDMINSTER
STE-AGATHE
Groupe Contant
1.800.463.4340
BIGGAR oktirearcticcat.com
SHERBROOKE rockmotosport.com
MANITOBA
westsidehonda.ca
contant.ca
extremelimite.ca
OK Tire Arctic Cat
LAVAL
MIRABEL
Riders Edge Suspension
709.639.1695
LA SARRE
Moto Sport La Sarre
514.360.6676
SASKATCHEWAN
JOLIETTE
VERNON innerspacewatersports.com
1.877.978.7787
GUELPH
QUEBEC
admsport.com
KLIMQUEBEC - Extreme Limite
ONTARIO
royaldistributing.com
1.888.454.9711
ADM Sport 709.489.9489
LITTLE RAPIDS
250.837.6738
VALEMOUNT
Alpine Country Rentals
generation-sport.ca
Groupe Contant
250.837.2027
SICAMOUS
Generation Sport
adventuresalesnfld.com 709.651.3335
Royal Distributing
250.832.3883
ST-MICHEL
Adventure Sales & Service
Rapid Power Sports
SALMON ARM
Shuswap Xtreme Rec
1.877.524.5717
VAUDREUIL
Thruway Recreation 250.562.4151
REVELSTOKE
Extreme Power Sports
CANADIAN DEALER LISTINGS
GANDER
islanderrv.com
PRINCE GEORGE pgmotorsports.ca
lanteignesports.com
NEWFOUNDLAND
BDC Performance Centre (Boondocker Canada)
Prince George Motorsports
204.233.3667
NEW BRUNSWICK Lanteigne Sport
604.888.8700
MIDWAY
mainjet.ca
ennsbrothers.com
CARAQUET
LANGLEY
GVP West
Enns Brothers
1.866.463.4340
Checkered Flag Recreation
checkeredflagrecreation.com
1.867.633.2429
EXPOSURE
PHOTOGRAPHER: JUSTIN BEFU RIDER: RANDY SHERMAN
56 | VOLUME 13
PHOTOGRAPHER: JULIE-ANN CHAPMAN RIDER: ROB ALFORD
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 57
PHOTOGRAPHER: KIRA BRAZINSKI RIDER: AMON BARKER
PHOTOGRAPHER: ALLAN SAWCHUCK RIDER: RENE ST ONGE
58 | VOLUME 13
PHOTOGRAPHER: NICK REEDY RIDER: DAN GARDINER
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 59
PHOTOGRAPHER: ANDREW MUNSTER RIDER: SAM STANDING
60 | VOLUME 13
PHOTOGRAPHER: DAVE BEST RIDER: AARON BERNASCONI
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 61
PHOTOGRAPHER: DAVE SEATON RIDER: DEREK WOOD
62 | VOLUME 13
PHOTOGRAPHER: TODD WILLIAMS RIDER: RYAN BERCHTOLD
PHOTOGRAPHER: DANIEL STEWART RIDER: CHRIS BOYD
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 63
AUTHORIZED CANADIAN DEALERS
Salmon Arm
Shuswap Xtreme Rec 250.832.3883 shuswapxtreme.com
ALBERTA
Grassland
Wetaskiwin
Acheson
GTS Powersports & RV 780.525.5820 grasslandtrailersales.com
HiLine Polaris Suzuki 780.352.7887 hilinepolarissuzuki.com
Okotoks
RPM Powersports 780.706.2411 rpmpowersports.ca
Cycle Works West/Acheson 780.960.1920 cycleworksacheson.com Alberta Beach
Ecko Marine & Powersports 780.924.3255 eckomarine.com
Cycleworks Foothills 403.995.1555 cycleworksfoothills.com
Calgary
Peace River
Bow Cycle North 403.288.5421 bowcyclecalgary.com Bow Cycle South 403.441.1299 bowcyclecalgary.com Cycle Works Calgary 403.230.1920 cycleworks.com Ralph’s Motorsports 877.972.5747 ralphsmotorsports.com
Mighty Peace Power Sports 780.617.8080 mightypeacepowersports.ca Thomas Homes & RV Center 780.624.2720 thomashomesandrv.com Red Deer
Whitecourt
BRITISH COLUMBIA
Sicamous
Moe's Rentals & Marina 250.836.4406 moesrentals.ca Valemount
Terracana Ranch Resort 866.968.4304 terracana.com
Blue River
Vernon
Blue River Sledz 250.673.8317 blueriversledz.com
Innerspace Watersports, Inc. 250.549.2040 innerspacewatersports.com Riders Edge Suspension 250.542.0269 ridersedgesuspension.com
Chilliwack
GVP East 604.795.7800 gvps.ca Cranbrook
Peak Performance Motorsports 250.417.3310 peakperformancecranbrook.ca
MANITOBA Selkirk
House of Thunder 780.608.2000 houseofthunder.ca
Cycle Works Red Deer 403.357.1578 cycleworks.com Synik Clothing 403.346.8019 synikclothing.com
Cochrane
Red Deer County
Bow Ridge Sports 1.888.466.0928 bowridgesports.com
Turple Bros. 403.346.5238 turplebros.ca
Avalanche Safety Solutions QUEBEC 250.344.8606 avalanchesafety.ca Sherbrook Mountain Motorsports Rock Moto Sport 250.344.6100 819.564.8008 rockmotosport.com mountainmotorsports.ca
Eckville
Rocky Mountain House
Kamloops
Rainy Creek Powersports 403.746.5000 rainycreekpowersports.com
Gateway Sales & Service 403.845.2421 gatewayss.net Snow Commander Snow Bike Rentals 403.844.0907 snowcommander.ca
Camrose
Edmonton
Cycle Works Edmonton 780.440.3200 cycleworksedmonton.com Martin Motor Sports (South) 780.438.2484 martinmotorsports.ca Martin Motor Sports (West) 780.481.4000 martinmotorsports.ca Mountain Magic 780.474.9400 mountainmagic.ca Rapid Revolutions 780.455.7533 rapidrevolutions.com The Sled Shop 780.488.6686 thesledshop.ca
Sherwood Park
Altitude Motorsports 587.269.4430 altitudemotorsports@outlook.com Spruce Grove
Specialty Motorsports 780.960.0571 specialtymotorsports.ca St. Albert
Absolute Power & Performance LTD 780.460.9101 abspow.ca Riverside Motosports 780.458.7272 rideriverside.com
Edson
Sundre
Riderz 780.723.5775 riderz.ca
Mountain’s Edge Cycle & Sled 403.638.3885 mountainsedgecycleandsled.com
Gibbons
Gibbons Motor Toys 780.923.3796 gibbonsmotortoysalberta.com Grande Prairie
Grande Prairie Honda & Powersports 888.532.8010 grandeprairiepowersports.com Stojans 780.538.2934 stojans.com
64 | VOLUME 12
Swann Hills
Willderness Playground Tours 780.333.2800 swanhillssledfixer.com Westerose
JAB Motorsports 780.586.2867 jabmotorsports.ca Westlock
CC Cycle Ltd. 780.349.3343 cccycle.ca
Golden
West Side Honda/Polaris 1.888.482.7782 westsidehonda.ca
St-Michel
Outlaw Motorsports
250.828.2200 outlawmotorsports.ca Robin’s Marine & Snowmobile Service 250.851.0084 robinsms.ca RTR Performance 250.374.3141 rtrperformance.com
Generation Sport 888.454.9711 generation-sport.ca Ville de Quebec
KLIMQUEBEC - Extreme Limite 418.805.0222 extremelimite.ca SASKATCHEWAN Biggar
Kelowna
Innerspace Watersports Inc. 250.763.2040 innerspacewatersports.com
OK Tire Arctic Cat 306.948.2426 oktirearcticcat.com
Langley
GVP West 604.888.8700 gvps.ca
Boundary Motorsports 306.825.4481 boundarymotorsports.com
Midway
Prince Albert
Lloydminster
BDC Performance Centre (Boondocker Canada) 1.877.449.2699 bdcperformance.ca
Prairie Recreation Parts & Access. Ltd. 306.763.8001 prairierecreation.com
Nelson
Proline Motorsports 306.978.7881 prolinemotorsports.ca Recreation Supply 306.664.3560 recreationsupply.ca
Main Jet Motorsports 1.877.352.3191 mainjet.ca Prince George
Prince George Motorsports 250.562.4151 pgmotorsports.ca Revelstoke
Full Speed Rentals 250.837.8883 fullspeedrentals.com Infinite Powersports 250.837.2027 infinitepowersports.com Rough Country Marine Ltd 250.837.6738 rough-country.ca
Saskatoon
Weyburn
Rick’s Performance 306.842.5728 ricksperformance@sasktel.net YUKON Whitehorse
Checkered Flag Recreation 867.633.2429 checkeredflagrecreation.com
HIGHMARKAIRBAGS.COM
PHOTO: STEVEN MARLENEE RIDER: CHRIS BURANDT
938km
January 26 8:12 a.m. We make breakfast, watch some videos from our last sled trip, and texts are sent to line up the rest of the crew. Yesterday’s cloud cover has parted, and the sun is shining. That makes our destination choice easy, so we gear up and head to the hills. 10:36 a.m. At the start of the zone we find a fun hip jump over some trees. We made quick work of a session there and move on to the next spot. 2:34 p.m. Building jumps is an art form, and we sculpt the perfect lip on a classic tabletop feature. Everyone is riding and having a blast. Nature’s terrain park brings out good energy.
Above
4:09 p.m. One of the sleds in our group has a mechanical issue with a chaincase. On the way out there are some steep hills, which make towing interesting. Eventually we all make it out without further problems. A good day.
Beyond &
CRACKED SECONDARY CLUTCH
GOLDEN
REVELSTOKE
January 25 5:05 p.m. After a long day of sled guiding in Revelstoke, I drive home to load up my sled and pack my bags. The prospect of sunshine and jump sessions in Golden is calling. 7:07 p.m. It takes an hour and thirty-seven minutes to get from my place in Revelstoke to the Riverhouse tavern in Golden. Factor in a one-hour time change between the two places, sometimes known as the Revelstoke time warp. It’s actually 8:07 p.m. and we’re having drinks in the future. 8:23 p.m. Colin walks into the dimly lit pub; a cold Pilsner awaits him on the counter. We discuss where we should go the next day—which, as always, depends on the weather. We’d like to push up into the alpine. If the sun cooperates, we have the perfect spot in mind.
66 | ISSUE 13
1ohrs 34min drive time
January 27 11:29 a.m. Our crew is smaller today and the weather worse, but we are still in high spirits. We plan to go further into the same zone we rode the day prior. Before trekking further back, we decide to warm up with a jump session.
SIDETRACK
2:05 p.m. There are some weird sounds coming from my clutch. I notice there’s a subtle crack in the secondary. The sled is still running okay though, so I part ways early and head for the trucks. I get within a few kilometers of the parking lot when my secondary grenades. 3:12 p.m. After getting towed out thanks to a random trail encounter with a friend, I make some calls; my friend Jason has a secondary for me, but getting it means a three hour drive in the wrong direction—to Airdrie, Alberta. Naturally I load up, grab fuel and hit the road again. Missing the rest of this trip because of a broken part isn’t an option. 6:27 p.m. I make it to Jason’s and we get to work on the sled. At one point we have to drive to Calgary for more parts, then back to Airdrie to put them in.
2
10:17 p.m. New secondary installed and primary serviced and my sled is back in action. I load up and hit the road again, this time heading west.
BREAKDOWNS GOLDEN REVELSTOKE AIRDRIE
BROKEN REAR SUSPENSION
January 29 6:10 a.m. When you’re in the middle of a powder drought you have to go far into the mountains to find the deep stuff, so our group arrives at the gas station early.
January 28 1:45 a.m. I make it back to Golden and get some sleep in while I still can. 9:02 a.m. The third morning we have a bigger crew to ride with. It is kind of cloudy, but we’re still excited to get out there. We have commercial content to film, so we’re hoping the weather will cooperate. I hope my efforts from the previous night will pay off.
PHOTO: DAVE BEST
2:07 p.m. The sun comes out in patches and we battle with flat light throughout the day. A big step down jump is built and we session it. The landing is hard, but the air-time feels amazing and it is certainly well-earned. After, we hunt around for some fresh powder but it’s in short supply. Eventually we find some and drop into a bunch of descent lines. I am feeling pretty good about my decision to drive all night to get my sled running.
10:17 a.m. It’s a long drive into the zone. Sleds are unloaded. Backpacks and avalanche safety gear are checked. It looks to be dumping snow higher up on the mountain. As we head up the ungroomed trail, suddenly my rear suspension starts rebounding hard on every whoop. I stop to take a gander underneath the tunnel; sure enough, a suspension piece is broken, ending my day before it gets started. 1:08 p.m. After limping my sled back to the truck and heading back to Golden with Dave, one of the photographers, we decide to go for lunch at a pub in town just as Winter X Games Best Trick starts live streaming on the TV. The timing isn’t anything to complain about. 4:17 p.m. Work beckons the next morning, so I hit the road heading west for Revelstoke to get some sleep and figure out how to get my sled ready to hit the snow once again. Despite breaking another sled part—forcing me to leave the mountain early yet again—I don’t feel too upset about it. I smile, reflecting on the non-stop action of the past few days. It seems like the most memorable experiences are never the ones that go smoothly, and doing anything worthwhile always requires you to go above and beyond.
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 67
the best service available, the best parts and accessories
801 MAIN AVENUE W, SUNDRE, ALBERTA 403.638.3885
mountainsedgecycleandsled.com
68 | ISSUE 13
TAILGATE
The Tie That Binds BY MARTY ANDERSON
Getting out on the mountain to enjoy a fresh snowfall with a group of like-minded, powder loving individuals is one of our greatest thrills. Sometimes we don’t realize it until years or perhaps even decades later, but memories and lifelong friendships are being made each time we do. I recently made a road trip across 6 states totaling just over 8000km. During this trip I was able to stop and visit friends that I have acquired over the years—relationships that are 100% the product of snowmobiling. In fact I drove an extra eight hours out of the way just to see some of these kindred spirits. It started out several years ago when I found a group of sledders talking on the internet about getting together for a couple of days of riding in Cooke City, Montana. I wanted to go, but there was no way that the nearly 20 hours of drive time in my old truck was a feasible option, so I resigned myself to missing out. That was when one of the fellows offered to not only bring his backup sled for me to use, but also to pick me up on his way through Billings at the airport—all I had to do was get on a plane. If a nearly complete stranger loads up a spare sled and meets you halfway across the country to take you for a ride, you know you are dealing with a special kind of person—I could only hope that meant I was meeting up with the likes of a Hibbert or Burandt, not a Bundy or Gacy. That weekend turned into one of the snowmobiling highlights of my entire life, and has led to some of my greatest friendships to this day. Our group has since joined up for several rides, usually meeting in the middle to lessen a lengthy drive. We always have a fantastic time and I now look forward to every opportunity to get together, even when it means an eight hour drive out of the way to see them. Maintaining these friendships is not always easy. Often the logistics of planning and travelling for these trips can seem outlandish, garnering a disbelieving headshake from non-snowmobilers who cannot grasp the depth of the things we will do to ride where—and with who—we want. The ability of a sport such as ours to bring people together from different parts of the world and different walks of life is truly a special one. It can be as simple as keeping you in touch with an old high school pal who you ride with occasionally. Or as complex as arranging customs, passports and insurance documents to ride with friends in another country. But the result of our efforts is always the same—good times, good memories and great friends. Snowmobiling truly is the tie that binds.
MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 69
CLASSIFIEDS
PARTS | SERVICE | GEAR | RENTALS
HOME OF THE SPECIALTY X SILENCER & SPECIALTY SYNCRODRIVE OUR FOCUS IS HIGH PERFORMANCE & REPAIR FOR ALL MAKES AND MODELS OF SNOWMOBILES, ATVS, UTVS, DIRTBIKES & WATERCRAFTS.
UTV, SNOWMOBILE, ATV • PERFORMANCE PARTS & SERVICE
From YAMAHA, SKI-DOO, POLARIS and ARTIC CAT we do what we can to take you to the extreme. Big bores, turbo kits, belt drives, parts, accessories, repair, insurance appraisals & more!
Turbo Kits • Big Bore Kits • Custom EFI & Carb Tuning Chassis Fabrication & Accessories Full Test Area On Site
780.960.0571 | 90 Oswald Drive, Spruce Grove, AB www.specialtymotorsports.ca
780.460.9101 | 2-25210 TWP Road 552, Sturgeon County, AB www.abspow.ca
soul soul rides rides AVALANCHE EDUCATION AND CONSULTING
LET IT SNOW!!
Soul Rides offers hands-on, in-field, small group classes to meet your schedule and skill level. Our classes are interactive, entertaining and mobile to ensure you have the exclusive Soul Rides experience.
GET YOUR HEAD OUT OF YOUR DASH AND BOOK AN AST COURSE TODAY!
Here at CC Cycle we are powersport enthusiasts just like you. We are active sledders, quadders, bikers and aim to treat our customers the way we want to be treated. Our showroom has new and used snowmobiles, ATVs, generators, motorcycles, power equipment and UTVs. Drop by or visit our website and see what we have to offer.
250.814.9569 | info@soulrides.ca www.soulrides.ca
1.800.792.8313 | 60120 Highway 44, Westlock, AB www.cccycle.ca
Join our Facebook page for updates on exclusive packages including Riding Clinics and Media Clinics.
EVERYTHING ARCTIC CAT…
70 | ISSUE 13
GOLDEN & REVELSTOKE AREA Guided fishing on the remote waters of the Kinbasket Lake, Columbia River, and Lake Revelstoke. Spectacular mountain scenery and trophy fishing.
Your Ride Your Gear Your Parts & Service Your Accessories Need we say more? Featuring: TEAM ARCTIC, 509, MOTORFIST, SCOTT
Day trips • Build your own adventure • Boat cruises A classic 24’ hardtop fishing boat with electric downriggers and planer board masts • Groups of 4-6 people • Fun for all ages and abilities April - December season • Heated cabin for the early spring and late fall trips
780.467.7007 | 185 Turbo Drive, Sherwood Park, AB www.bosmotorsports.ca
250.439.8382 | remotewatersguiding@gmail.com www.remotewatersbc.com
PARTS | SERVICE | GEAR | RENTALS
Cycle Works Motorsports Edmonton carries a wide selection of new & used inventory, including motorcycles, snowmobiles & ATVs. Plus RZR, RANGER and GENERAL from trusted manufacturers like Polaris, Indian Motorcycles, Victory, KTM, and Husqvarna. We also offer parts & accessories, repairs, out-of-province inspections, salvage certifications, insurance appraisals & more!
780.440.3200 | 5688-75th Street, Edmonton, AB www.cycleworksedmonton.com
CLASSIFIEDS
THE OKANAGAN’S #1 SNOWBIKE RETAILER AND RENTAL LOCATION. MULTIPLE BRANDS! Specialized in Avalanche Safety Equipment. Carrying Highmark Airbags, PIEPS, BCA, Snowmobile Outerwear, 509 Helmets and Goggles, Timbersled & Yeti. 250.549.2040 | 3006 - 32nd. Street, Vernon, BC 250.763.2040 | 2781 BC-97, Kelowna, BC www.okanagansnowbikes.ca | www.innerspacewatersports.com
SLED RENTALS IN REVELSTOKE AND SICAMOUS
LOOKING TO EXPLORE IN STYLE - WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED! We have a great selection of top of the line Ski-Doo Snowmobiles for rent throughout the season. Whether you are new to the sport and are still figuring out what works best for you, or you are visiting us from away, we have everything you need to explore the great outdoors.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MONTHLY DEALS AND SPECIALS. SHIPPING CANADA WIDE AND USA. Aftermarket parts for all snowmobile brands since 1974. KLIM, 509, HJC, HMK, CKX, GMAX, starting line products and RSI
250.801.8443 | 1407 Victoria Road, Revelstoke, BC www.extremepowersports.ca
1.800.667.SNOW (7669) | 2414 Millar Avenue, Saskatoon, SK www.recreationsupply.co
SNOWMOBILE TOURS AND RENTALS, GOLDEN BC
RIDING WITH RED DEER SINCE 1956! SELLING SKI-DOO SINCE 1965!
Quick and easy rental process to allow you more time on the trails and in the mountains. We have one of the best mountain snowmobiles on the market today. The new Ski-Doo Summit X Gen-4 Rev 850cc make it even easier to maneuver in the mountains and the E-TEC’s 165 horse power motor lets you get anywhere you want. Extreme back country Snowmobile Tours and Kicking Horse Trail Snowmobile Tours right from the resort.
1.877.950.7533 | 1500 Kicking Horse Trail (Parking Lot #2), Golden, BC
www.rockymountainriders.com
Full service department and extensive parts & accessory departments to help you with all of your attire and sled needs. Your one stop shop for non-stop fun with Ski-Doo, Sea-Doo, Can-Am, Spyder, Honda, Suzuki, KTM & Yeti Kits.
403.346.5238 | 175 Leva Avenue, Red Deer County, AB www.turplebros.ca MOUNTAIN SLEDDER | 71
SEND IT
68-year-old Norwegian, Tom “Tommen” Bjerknæs, helped pioneer the snowboard culture in his homeland back in the day, and he’s been hooked on snow sports ever since. His exceptional life has led him to live in the United States for a time, travel as a roadie for the Grateful Dead, work as a guinea pig at a drug testing lab, live in a van, and lately spend some 200+ days a winter shredding snow. You’re an inspiration to us all, Tommen! Keep shredding!
PHOTO : LINUS NILSSON
72 | ISSUE 13
2018
SNOSCOOT /// FIRST TRACKS
200 CLASS 4-STROKE ENGINE I LONG TAPERED TUNNEL I COBRA TRACK
FUN, EXCITEMENT AND A LOST SENSE OF TIME.
74 | ISSUE 13