Nestled in the Selkirk and Purcell Mountains is the sleepy little town of Creston, which boasts some of the most varied sled terrain in all of the Kootenays. Many a self-proclaimed tree rider has been reduced to tears after experiencing the intense riding of the Salmo-Creston pass. Spacing is conservative and snowfall is ample, leaving little room for error.
The community of Creston offers much in the way of eclectic dining and lodging. Ethnic whole foods, back-to-basics comfort food restaurants and pubs, quaint bed and breakfast inns and the brand spanking new Ramada hotel create lodging fit for the king of the hill.
Topaz Creek
Just past the Creston Valley Wildlife reserve is a logging road to the right, which leads to a fun riding area called Topaz. This zone is a huge cutblock of rolling hills even the most novice rider can enjoy. The snow depth must be generous, otherwise it is stump city—so have patience and let the snow accumulate. New riders thrive in the wide open terrain, which provides them ample opportunity to practice their skills.
Seasoned riders are not left out of the fun, as they fly through the air on one of the many natural jumps and drops up Topaz. Staging can be tricky and the logging road can get icy, so remember: what goes up must come down, and down could be a luge run.
Char Creek
Although the Creston snowmobile areas are not groomed, they are all maintained by the volunteers of the Kokanee Country Snowmobile Club. Char Creek is located about 30 minutes up the Salmo Creston pass on the south side. This area hosts a beautiful club cabin for riders to enjoy. Many winter enthusiasts utilize this cabin, including backcountry skiers and snowshoers. There are a variety of ride areas throughout Char, including Heather Lake, which is clearly marked. This can be a rodeo ride or a simple pleasure ride, depending upon the time of year. Snow depth is a big contributor to the difficulty level, but once winter has fully set in, a well worn trail should have been laid. Special kiosks are set up at many of the staging areas, so be sure to contribute to the club that keeps these areas alive. While a trail pass is not demanded, it is encouraged that you pay it forward and support those who support the areas you ride.
Maryland/Boundary Lake
The Maryland and Boundary Lake staging area is about 20 minutes up the Salmo Creston pass on the south side of the Highway. It’s a wonderful, user-friendly area that provides something for everyone, including the new Terry Watt Memorial cabin. Watt worked endlessly to keep these areas open, pushing back against caribou closures and supporting club efforts. Many of the Kokanee Country poker runs are set along this route, ending up at Boundary Lake. You can stay on the trail for an easier, scenic ride, or if you’ve got a boondocking itch you’d like to scratch simply venture off the trail and create your own adventure. With tight trees, challenging climbs and ample opportunity for deep powder play, this loop is full of adventure.
Sanca Creek
Highway 3A which meanders along Kootenay Lake is also in the Kokanee Country Snowmobile Club’s area. There are many advanced opportunities for riding, including Sanca Creek. It is best to venture forth with someone who is familiar with this area, for the riding can get challenging very quick. Sanca has a host of big climbing areas, tight trees and fun lakes to enjoy. Snowfall is plentiful, thanks to the lake, so fresh powder is usually a regularity. The best riding up the lake is from February on, when skies seem to be more clear. The extra condensation from the lake can create a blanket of fog, making visibility difficult.
Enjoy Creston
Along with excellent snowmobiling, Creston has much to offer. Columbia Brewery, home of the world famous Kokanee beer, runs tours year round—and yes, there are samples. With its vineyards, wine tours, grassroots musicians and artisans on every corner, this sleepy little town will capture your heart.
Like with any mountain riding, know before you go and check the avalanche forecast each day. Several of the ride areas sit adjacent to caribou closures, including the Nature Conservancy of Canada, so pay attention to the signs and research your trip ahead of time. It only takes one careless rider to ruin the positive impact many have fought for. Caution combined with preparation make for a great day of mountain shredding around the Creston Valley.
