With a pleasant winter climate, ample mountain snowfall and eye-catching natural surroundings, Creston is appealing to snowmobilers. The Kokanee Country Snowmobile Club has enthusiastic members that can tell you all about the local trails, as well as the adventures they have had. The club hosts family-friendly events such as poker runs and other fun activities for sledders to take part in.
This ungroomed riding area is a deactivated logging road that now serves as a fun zone for sledders of all ages. It is located 50 kilometres up the Salmo Creston Pass, and the easily-accessed trail goes for five kilometres before leading to the cabin. The cabin has a wood stove, ample seating, and there are plenty of nearby routes to venture on once you've warmed up.
(Read more about snowmobiling on the Char Creek Cabin Trail.)
The Russell Creek riding area is a logging road situated in Kitchener, B.C., about 15 minutes east of Creston. Please be aware that active logging does take place in the area, so be sure to contact the local snowmobile club before heading off to snowmobile in this location. Russell Creek allows for relaxed family riding, connecting to the Birch Creek trail system and a seemingly endless network of terrain. Check out Powerline Hill, approximately 15 kilometres down the trail, if you want to take the family on a tobogganing side-trip. Be sure you are prepared for mountain riding by having proper snowmobile safety gear and education.
(Read more about snowmobiling in the Russel Creek area.)
Topaz Creek can be reached by heading just past the Creston Valley Wildlife reserve. Take the logging road to the right and you'll arrive at a fun riding zone called Topaz. This area offers tons of rolling hills, and is one of the top places for new sledders to work on their skills. Experienced snowmobilers enjoy the natural jumps and drops. Ensure that you have deep snow conditions before riding here, as the stumps can become obstacles if there isn't enough powder. Also be aware that staging can be tricky and the logging road can get icy.
(Read more about snowmobiling on the Topaz Creek trail.)
Before heading out on the Creston trails, check the local avalanche forecast.
The local College of the Rockies hosts regular avalanche safety courses, which we highly recommend for all B.C. snowmobilers.
The laws governing snowmobile use differ by province and can be confusing. Here, we make it easier to understand what local and out of province snowmobilers will need in terms of insurance, registration and licensing to ride B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
Trial maps, top snowmobile trails, club contacts and other information you can use before planning a snowmobile trip to Creston, B.C.
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by Kyle Born
Josh Salzmann, president of the Kokanee Country Snowmobile Club, has elevated his club by working closely with government
by Kyle Born