Whiteshell Provincial Park, approximately 130 kilometres east of Winnipeg, Manitoba, has some of the best riding in the province. In a unique arrangement with Manitoba Natural Resources and Forestry, this area’s grooming is provincially funded, allowing for aggressive and frequent trail maintenance. Many trails are designed as one-way routes, creating an atmosphere of safety and comfort for the many riders who enjoy them.
These trails take you deep into the provincial park, where you can visit any number of lakes. West Hawk Lake and Falcon Lake are two of the favourite destinations, offering endless hours of playing in the deep, dry powder of the Canadian Shield.
With help from the provincial government and industry supporters such as Chudds Powersports, Whiteshell accommodates thousands of snowmobiles each season. Dave Gibson of Chudds Powersports is proud to contribute to Snoman, the provincial Snowmobile Association in Manitoba, which oversees and generates funds for snowmobiling. He’s an active rider, putting on more than 400 miles each season.
“Snoman does a great job for our snowmobile clubs throughout Manitoba," said Gibson. "But the difference governmental funding makes is quite clear with Whiteshell Provincial Park, where Manitoba Conservation provides the necessary funding to groom the area. All our clubs need that type of support.”
Tips from a club member
Whiteshell Snowmobile Club member Sheri Nedohin simply loves the Whiteshell. The club, founded in 1991, is active in maintaining shelters, signage and rescue stations throughout the trail system. Nedohin and her husband ride the Whiteshell Provincial Park often, and sees it as their unique opportunity for time together.
Among her favourite destinations is the Beauchemin Lake loop, which is a narrow trail winding its way through breathtakingly scenic lakes and backcountry areas.
“Quite often we go out for dinner, Nedohin said. "To us this means packing up our supper and heading to a warm-up shelter, where we cook over the woodstove and relax.”
Sounds like my kind of romance.
