Lac du Bonnet is one of Manitoba’s most beloved destinations to go snowmobiling. In fact, it’s one of the most popular sledding locations in all of Western Canada, as proven by becoming SnoRiders’ SledTown ShowDown 2021 champions (link to new article).
Lac du Bonnet’s snowmobile trails showcase lush boreal forests, rivers, lakes and bogs, brightstone hills, scenic views of the Canadian Shield and plenty of opportunities to see wildlife.
Original logging roads are the foundation for Lac du Bonnet’s current trails. Lac du Bonnet’s trail network boasts over 325 kilometers of one-way trails and 600 kilometers of two-way trails that are groomed weekly.
Some snowmobilers ride out from Winnipeg via connecting trails and continue on to Lac du Bonnet’s neighboring trails. On a busy February weekend, there can be around 1,500 snow machines that cross the Winnipeg River.
Lac du Bonnet is maintained by the Eastman Snopals, a community-based organization that welcomes all visitors and supports tourism in their beautiful countryside. The Eastman Snopals name represents the communities of Lac du Bonnet, Seven Sisters, Pinawa, Seddon Corner, Whitemouth, Elma, and Molson, which amalgamated in 1996, but the original club is over 50 years old.
Here’s everything you need to know to snowmobile in Lac du Bonnet:
How many kilometres of trails does Lac du Bonnet have?
Over 325 kilometers of one-way trails and 600 kilometers of two-way trails that are groomed weekly.
What are Lac du Bonnet’s top trails/riding areas?
The entire Eastman region is known for being ‘cottage country’ due to the many lakes and recreational activities. There are plenty of gas stops, food and lodging available along the trails and between the Eastman Snopals’ five renovated warm-up shacks.
Where are the staging areas?
There are five staging areas located in Seven Sisters, Lac du Bonnet, Pinawa, Seddon’s Corner and Elma.
Is there enough room at the staging area for trucks with big trailers?
Yes.
Is it plowed regularly?
Yes.
Do trail fees apply to all trails/riding areas? If so, how much are the trail fees?
In Manitoba, all snow machines require a SnoPass to ride the groomed trails.
The SnoPass is $150 per season and available at Manitoba Public Insurance Agency. To be a SnoPal member, the cost is $20 per person or $25 per family.
Where can I get a trail pass?
Memberships are available online. Email [email protected] to purchase a trail pass.
What kind of groomers do the Eastman Snopals have?
Two Prinoth Husky groomers, a brand new MTN 10-foot drag, a 10-foot Mogul Master, and a New Holland Tractor converted on tracks, which pulls another 10-foot Mogul Master.
There are 10 experienced groomer operators that work Monday to Friday and sometimes Saturday night when there are rallies and fundraiser rides.
Are there any cabins or warm-up shelters in the area? What are they like?
The Eastman Snopals’ five warm-up shacks are well-stocked with dry wood to make a cozy fire.
The club recently tore down the old King’s CookOut Shack and built a new 24-by-24-foot, insulated, metal-clad interior and exterior. This will be the site of monthly meetings in the winter. The other warm up shacks have been upgraded with new metal roofs and solar lighting.
The groomer shed was built in 2015. It is heated with propane. The Eastman Snopals meet here and service the groomers on a weekly basis when in use.
What events are hosted by the Eastman Snopals?
- Friday night Chase the Ace
- 50/50 ticket sales at the Tourist Hotel in Seven Sisters
- Bud Spud
- Steak evenings
Eastman SnoPals are proud community supporters and help raise money for CancerCare Manitoba.
How does someone join the club?
To become an Eastman SnoPal member, purchase a membership. The cost is $20 per person or $25 per family. Memberships are available online. Email [email protected] to purchase a trail pass.
What year was the club started?
Sometime prior to 1970.
On average, how many members are in the Eastman Snopals Snowmobile Club?
The membership is between 100-120 with 12-15 active volunteers. The committee includes president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, directors and trail guardians.
Who is the club president?
John Flemming
For more information about the club or the area, who can I contact?
Wally Sokoluk, director of the Eastman Snopals - [email protected].
