As any experienced snowmobiler can tell you, Valemount continues to set the bar for backcountry sledding in B.C. Under the leadership of Curtis Pawliuk, Executive Director of the Valemount and Area Recreation Development Association (VARDA), the community has built a reputation as one of Canada’s leading snowmobile destinations.
This year, the VARDA team is pushing that reputation even further with the launch of the Robson Valley Pass, a first-of-its-kind season pass that gives riders seamless access to both Valemount and McBride. It’s a move designed to strengthen regional connections, make sledding more accessible, and keep the local riding scene thriving, all while continuing to protect and promote access to the mountains that make the sport possible.
In our conversation with Pawliuk, he shared updates on the Robson Valley Pass and the continued growth of snowmobiling in Valemount.
What is new and exciting in Valemount's snowmobiling scene?
We’re thrilled to announce something brand new for this season. VARDA and McBride Big Country Snowmobile Association (MBCSA) have teamed up to launch the Robson Valley Pass (RVP) — a single season snowmobile pass that gives you access to both of our incredible riding areas. For the first time ever, one pass means seamless access across two amazing mountain destinations. More terrain to explore. More variety in your riding. More value for your season.
This initiative was created with our riders in mind. We know how important flexibility and access are, and we wanted to deliver something that makes your season even better. For this season, only Valemount and McBride are included, but we hope to be able to work with our neighbours in Blue River as well, if this initiative is a success. It's a fine line to try to meet costs and still make something affordable for the public. We have a three destination corridor here with Valemount, McBride and Blue River and the more people that travel through it, the better for everyone.
How long have you been with VARDA, and what initially drew you to take on a leadership role?
I started on the ground level with VARDA early in 2006 and quickly moved to the Executive Director role. I saw the potential of this organization and also how important it is to the community's success.
How has the club grown or changed in recent years?
VARDA is more than just a snowmobile club, we are a recreation development and management group and we work very hard to provide opportunities for our locals and visitors alike. VARDA was a growth of the original Timberline Snowgoers and was incorporated in 2004. It is a very unique organization as our Board is made up of representatives from many sectors that are involved with backcountry use. Over the last decade, we have grown into the four-season organization that was originally forecast in 2004. VARDA's entrance into the Mountain Bike Trail world approximately 10 years ago, led to huge success for our community and we are now a much sought-after four-season destination.
How long is the riding season in Valemount, and when is the peak time to visit?
Our season typically starts in late November or early December and goes until late April. I think if I was only able to do a couple trips a year, one would be in late December to get some of that early season bottomless pow and then a mid February trip would be a must.
Are there unique challenges or advantages to maintaining trails in this region?
I think all groups of this kind face many unique challenges with maintaining public recreation and access. Currently we are facing an epidemic of road and bridge closures throughout the province and I feel that this is the largest threat to the access to public lands. I do not have the solution, but it’s clear that we must work together and emphasize how essential access to recreation on public lands is to our way of life and to the economic success of many communities in B.C.
Do you have a personal favourite riding spot in Valemount?
That's a secret, but Allan Creek is always a good reliable ride with some of the best terrain in B.C. #onlyallan
Can you tell me about your most memorable ride from last season?
One of my daughters has taken up sledding now and some of my best days are when we get out together. Sharing my favourite pastime with a family member is precious and watching her enjoy it as much as I do hits all the feels. On the rare occasion I get all my family up there for a fire and a hot dog roast with friends. It does not get much better than that. Oooooh and then there are the days when the snow, weather, stability and crew all line up for an aggressive and technical ride. It's simply epic. Snowmobile rules. I mean who else gets to go where we go and see what we see, without the means to use a helicopter. What we do is very special and every day on my Ski-Doo is a memorable day.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
If you’re a sledder, now is the time to step up and help in one way or another. Joining a club is more than just buying a membership, it’s an investment in the future of our sport. Every member adds strength, and together we have the numbers to protect, grow, and improve the riding opportunities we all love. Whether it’s becoming a club sponsor, lending a hand at maintenance days or events, or simply encouraging friends to join, your involvement makes a real difference. The future of our favourite pastime depends on all of us—so get your membership, get involved, and help keep our community strong.
