Staring out my office window at the fat flakes of snow falling in early December, thoughts are turning to powder-filled days atop Lumberton.
SnoRiders’ home turf and Cranbrook’s most popular snowmobiling area, Lumberton boasts over 50 kilometres of immaculately groomed trails. No lie. They’re awesome, and it’s all thanks to the Cranbrook Snowmobile Club’s (CSC) grooming crew.
From the main parking lot, you can cruise along smooth trails looking for cutblocks and hilly, open areas to play. As well, there are several lakes in the area where you can make some turns in the deep snow or spark a fire and cook lunch.
Lumberton is great for families and beginners, but it also has plenty to offer the more advanced riders. Off the beaten path, there are several unmaintained routes that lead to more aggressive play areas, such as Heaven and Helmet Ridge—where you will find steep climbs and lots of technical tree riding.
The CSC also maintains a two-storey cabin in the Lumberton area that is well suited for overnight stays.
“With a wood stove and generator set up, it’s an oasis in the backwoods that many, many members enjoy year-round,” said Steven Lechmann, vice-president of the CSC.
Get in touch with the club to learn more about access to the cabin and other local benefits that come with being a CSC member. But for now, come and see Cranbrook’s showcase snowmobiling area for yourself.
Getting there: The approach to Lumberton begins 10.7 kilometres southwest of the city on Highway 3/95. Turn right onto the Lumberton Road and follow it as it switchbacks up the hill under the powerline. At the nine-kilometre marker, take the left fork onto the Moyie River Road. The staging area is located at 14.6 kilometres.
Driving distance: 25 kilometres (about 25 minutes from Cranbrook)
Parking: There are two parking lots and they are both plowed regularly. Depending on snow conditions and if it’s a weekend, the first parking lot may fill up fast, but there should still be enough space for those with trailers in the upper level lot.
