Hudson Bay is home to some of the best snowmobiling eastern Saskatchewan has to offer, and its wide mix of forested trails means that there’s something for everyone from beginner to the more experienced rider. You just need to know where to look.
Wachee Shelter (Trail 210F)
Travelling directly from town straight from your motel or other accommodation, this scenic 20 kilometre trail will see you head out east and then north on trail 210F. Starting out in a black spruce forested area, it winds its way through some marshy areas before hitting a high ridge with larger trees such as aspen and spruce. Around 14 kilometres north of Hudson Bay on an even higher ridge you’ll find thick jack pines bordering both sides of the trail protecting and offering shelter from the wind, so those taking the whole family or pulling youngsters behind them can rest assured knowing that their trip won’t be spoiled because of a windy day.
Once you arrive at the shelter, you’ll find all of the amenities you’ll need including split firewood, a wood stove, solar lights and large windows, all working to make it the perfect place to enjoy a hot cup of cocoa and to reset before heading back.
Driving directions: The trail signs for 210F can be found within the Town of Hudson Bay and can be accessed directly from your accommodations.
Total trail distance from Hudson Bay: 20 km
Grooming season: From mid-November to April
Difficulty level: Easy
Moose Range Lodge (Trail 210A)
Southeast of Hudson Bay in the Porcupine Hills is a 130-kilometre trip one way on trail 210A east and south of Hudson Bay that climbs up into the Porcupine Hills. Initially this trail starts out on an old rail bed, allowing for a fast-paced, wide open start. But once you pass the Ice Road Inn Shelter, the first shelter on the route, you start climbing into the hills and moving along a very winding trail that passes through large mature forest areas, with a lot of sharp corners and switchbacks that gives you a real workout by the time your 130-kilometre trip is complete.
The potential for a lot of wildlife viewing on this trail gives you the opportunity for lots of interaction both of the pleasant and not-so-pleasant variety when you come riding over a hill—so be alert.
This trail also offers plenty of deep snow to play in along the way. Open meadows and small lakes will lead you straight to Moose Range Lodge, where you’ll find fuel and hot meals to get you in shape for the return trip to Hudson Bay.
Driving directions: The trail signs for 210F can be found within the town of Hudson Bay and can be accessed directly from your accommodations.
Elevation: 1,500 feet
Total trail distance from Hudson Bay: 130 km
Grooming season: From mid-November to April
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
Wild Cat Hill Provincial Park (Trail 210P)
This trail starts at a moderate level until you get right up into the park. Once there, the trail tightens up and brings with it a number of sharp inclines. Deep within the wilderness park you’ll find an access to Bankside Lake, a rather large lake right on top of the hills at around 2,800 feet. Typically the snow up there will be a couple of feet deeper than in town. For a difficult little trek on the northwest corner of Bankside Lake, follow the creek for about half a mile to work your way from Bankside Lake to Fir Head Lake, the northernmost point you can get to in the wilderness area. While it’s difficult to get into it this small sheltered lake, once accessed it provides a big bowl and play area.
With no lodges or services available this far north, only experienced riders are encouraged to venture here. The trail’s isolation means that if you’re going to spend any time up there playing around, you should be sure to bring plenty of fuel and emergency supplies, as well as a few friends that can come to your aid should you experience any issues.
Driving directions: The trail signs for 210P can be found within the town of Hudson Bay and can be accessed directly from your accommodations.
Elevation: 1,700 feet
Total Trail Distance from Hudson Bay: 100 km
Grooming season: From mid-November to April
Difficulty level: Moderate to Difficult
Annual Hudson Bay 100 Rally
- February 9, 2013
If you visit Hudson Bay to attend the annual Poker Rally, be prepared to put some miles on. Attracting upwards of 300 riders, the rally follows a minimum 100 mile trail. Following the ride, relax and unwind with fellow enthusiasts at the traditional steak supper and social. For more information contact Hudson Bay Tourism at 306-865-2263.
