Gazing out at the shores of Tobin and Codette lakes while surrounded by the muffled hush of a landscape blanketed by powdery, fluffy snow, riders will realize why Nipawin is such a treasured spot in East Central Saskatchewan for snowmobiling.
“We have around 300 kilometres of groomed trails that are taken care of by our local club, the Twin Lakes Trail—Blazers,” said Sherry Michalyca, economic development officer for the Town of Nipawin. “The majority of the trails go through the boreal forest and there’s some nice changes in topography.”
Lake land
The numerous lakes sprinkled throughout the rolling terrain mean that riders have ample opportunities to stop on lakeshores for a beach—side hot chocolate or an afternoon of ice fishing. Trails abound in the area and most lead sledders right back into the bustling town of Nipawin when they are ready for dinner, a warm drink or a cozy place to sleep.
Snowmobilers are permitted to drive right through town to stop for a riding break or to access the bypass trail that will take them back into the lake country.
The extensive network of trails offers something for everyone—long leisurely rides, short fast sprints or open areas where snowmobilers can play and practise their trickiest manoeuvres. Families and competitive riders all have a place in Nipawin.
People from around the country flock to Nipawin every year for the town’s annual Winter Lights Festival—a sister celebration to the popular summer vent, Communities in Bloom. The main attraction of the festival is the Parade of Lights, in which local businesses create stunning displays in the storefront windows. Festival—goers can take a horse—drawn sleigh ride around town for a guided tour of the sparkling streets.
