Whitecourt is known as the Snowmobile Capital of Alberta, and for good reason. With one of the largest club memberships in the province, the Whitecourt Trailblazers Snowmobile Club is busy all year round meeting and maintaining over 400 kilometres of groomed trails. There are 550-plus kilometres of groomed trails in Alberta, and the Whitecourt area—including the Golden Triangle—make up almost half the trails in the province.
The Golden Triangle is formed by Whitecourt in the south, Fox Creek in the northwest and Swan Hills to the northeast. The trail covers diverse landscapes that include forested areas, creeks, rivers and cutlines. Heading northeast, the trail runs parallel to Highway 32, while the northwest portion runs along Highway 43. There are plenty of warm-up shelters along the trail, and it is well maintained in a co-operative spirit by all three connecting communities.
A very active and progressive club
Ken Linford, president of the Whitecourt Trailblazers Snowmobile Club, said it is one of the largest clubs in Alberta, with more than 300 members and 16 directors—all of whom ensure the industry and region are active, relevant and progressive. Even the Town of Whitecourt is immersed in the sport and club. Whitecourt is one of just a few communities where there are specific bylaws allowing snowmobiles to be driven in and around town during the season.
“The Town and County here are really trying to promote winter tourism,” said Linford. “They do give us some seed money to help with the grooming program and to build new trails.”
The Whitecourt Trailblazers added another 140 kilometres of trail last year and Linford said the club is far from done.
“We’re going to keep doing this as long as we can, because we want some place for our grandchildren to ride one day,” Linford said.
Want to go for a ride?
A cornerstone to the success of the club is an introductory and educational ride at the end of January that includes families, media, politicians, emergency responders and vendors. Folks gather for a day of safety and socializing, complete with a wiener roast. The big bonus on this day is that the club will provide a sled and all the necessary riding gear.
“There is always lots going on here; it’s a year-round endeavour,” said Linford.
