Amber Heberling isn’t just a motorsports enthusiast—she’s a rider who’s grown up with a passion for speed and adventure. From the moment she felt the surge of adrenaline at six years old, riding double with her father on a snowmobile, she knew she was meant for this. Now, Amber’s experiences span ATV tracks, technical mountain trails, and backcountry terrain, making her an expert in navigating the toughest environments.
Amber was eager to share her favourite riding locations, from Alberta’s Brule Sand Dunes to the snowy peaks of Valemount, B.C. She also opened up about her approach to safety, the custom modifications she makes to her machines, and the challenges she’s faced along the way. Whether it’s taking on steep climbs or mastering deep powder, Amber’s approach to motorsports is all about embracing the fear, pushing her limits, and inspiring others to do the same.
- Photo courtesy of Amber Heberling
Where are you from, and where do you most love to ride?
I currently live on Wabamun Lake in Alberta, Canada.
If I had to pick one place in particular, it would be Valemount, B.C. It was the first mountain range I conquered on my machines; it will forever hold a special place in my heart.
- Photo courtesy of Amber Heberling
How long have you been into sledding?
I was born and raised in the powersports world. So as soon as I could hold a helmet on my head I was riding.
What type of machine do you ride?
A 2024 Skidoo Freeride 146" and a 2007 Honda TRX450ER.
Do you remember the first time you rode a snowmobile? What was it like?
I do not remember the first time I rode a snowmobile because I was just a baby, but I do remember my first snowmobile jump. I was maybe six years old, and I was doubling with my dad; sitting squirrel and hanging on for dear life. My dad hit a jump and for the first time I remember adrenaline filling my body, I peered over the edge of the sled and it felt like I was 10 feet off the ground; it was like time slowed down and there was a moment of complete weightlessness before landing back onto the snow. I now look back and realize that ten-foot jump was probably only a few feet, but that memory is forever engraved in my soul; it was the moment I realized I was born to fly.
What type of terrain do you prefer to ride on?
When ATVing:
- Tracks or track-style trails for speed and air time
- Technical mountain trails for enduro-style riding
When snowmobiling:
- Backcountry mountains
- Deep pow
- Technical trees
- Lots of natural feature terrain for jumps and drops
- Photo courtesy of Amber Heberling
Can you name a few of your favourite trails or locations?
For snowmobiling
- Valemount, B.C.
- Allan Creek
- Sicamous, B.C.
- Eagles Pass
For ATVing:
- Brule Sand Dunes, AB (big climbs, jumps, and drops)
- Nordegg, AB (enduro style trails)
- The Barnyard Compound, AB (track and ramps)
- Photo courtesy of Amber Heberling
What safety gear do you always wear when riding?
- Knee and shin pads (i.e. knee braces)
- Neck brace (when jumping)
- Chest protector
- Avalanche bag (mountain riding)
Have you made any modifications to your machines?
Handle bar set. Both machines have a custom set-up suited to me, allowing maximum control.
Adjusting suspension, shocks, for my weight to absorb impact while jumping.
What advice would you give to someone new to the sport?
You have get to comfortable being uncomfortable, and that takes time. That’s all that sledding/quadding really is, is seat time. Be fearless in every mishap, because every time you fall, you are one more step (or one more fall) closer to mastering it. You must accept the fear, embrace the fear, and conquer the fear. Don't forget to believe in yourself, and surround yourself with people that share that same belief. You got this.
- Photo courtesy of Amber Heberling
Were you self-taught, or did you have a mentor?
My family taught me how to ride. My father, the "when in doubt, throttle out" kind of guy, taught the basics: throttle, brake, and fearlessness. My mother, the safe and reliable rider, taught me that women are capable of anything. And my sister, who always pushed the limits, taught me that if she could do it, so could I and vice versa.
I cant forget my Gido (Grandpa), he taught me that slow and steady does in fact win the race.
What has been your proudest accomplishment so far?
My biggest accomplishment thus far is probably the confidence that I have gained from this sport. Having a family that all engaged in motorsports meant that you were never alone when it came to travelling, riding, and wrenching; but, as my dreams became bigger and bigger, I needed to learn to be independent on the road and in the backcountry. I feel snowmobiling has allowed me to become that person - free to pursue whichever dream I may desire.
I was especially proud when I crossed the border and went to ride at Proven Progression with Caleb Kesterke. The solo trip through unfamiliar territory, was the most empowering moment of my previous season; because, the once fearful, timid girl, just did the damn thing.
- Photo courtesy of Amber Heberling
As a mechanic, do you think your technical knowledge gives you an advantage on the trails?
What is the problem? Can it be fixed on the mountain? Do I have access to the right part? Do I have the right tools for the job? Having even just a basic understanding of how your machine works can be the difference between an expensive helicopter bill or not.
I have learned most of my mechanical skills from my father, and it was a moment through him, that I realized I needed to learn more.
A handful of years ago, I was sledding in the backcountry, and my sled died. I did have a basic knowledge of small engines, so I knew it wasn't that: spark, fuel, oil, etc. After many hours of trying, I had to make the decision to leave my snowmobile on the mountain and come back the next day with the right aids for the job. The following day, I made sure to have my dad with me, and when the mechanical expert looked at my sled, he wiggled some wires around and ta-da my sled fired right up, just like that. The expert just saved many hours of grit and money to get my sled out.
I have seen it all, broken skis, a-arms, handlebars etc, and I have also seen every kind of make shift tree part to get these machines off the mountain—some good, some not so good. But I can say wholeheartedly, that having a basic understanding can really be the difference between a good and bad day.
- Photo courtesy of Amber Heberling
How has snowmobiling culture evolved since you started?
Being a lifelong member in the powersports community, I would say the sheer increase in female riders has evolved the snowmobiling culture. Fifteen years ago you would only see one other female rider in a whole season, and now, you see a handful of women every time you ride. An increase in female riders, has also allowed women's gear to flourish; back in the day, the only option was men's gear, and now, there is head to toe custom gear designed specifically for women.
Do you participate in any snowmobile competitions or events?
I try to attend as many community events as my schedule allows me. This ranges from snowmobile shows, to women only rides, and of course the one and only backcountry snowmobile race (i.e. Riley Suhan Backcountry Snowmobile Race). This season I will be attending Bung Bung as well, a vintage snowmobile ride in McBride, B.C.
