Go Sledding in Pemberton
The Pemberton backcountry has seen huge snowfalls recently, sending local sledders into a frenzy. We caught up with local snowmobile pro Julie-Ann Chapman to get her take on the recent conditions.
Julie-Ann recommends sticking to the two mainstay spots in Pemberton, The Rutherford and The Hurley.
Rutherford
Reaching the good snow on the Rutherford is still a challenge. Reports are the trip to the Rutherford cabin which usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes, took about 3 hours on Monday. Some creeks and crevasses are still exposed which means building your own bridges using fallen logs and snow. Julie-Ann suggests only highly experienced riders venture up the Rutherford at this time. She says "hopefully by the New Year things will get going up there".
Hurley
Right now it seems like the best snowmobiling in the Pemberton area is up The Hurley. This area refers to the road leading up to Bralorne and Goldbridge (Click here to see map). You can drive about 10 KM up the Hurley before you reach the snowline. From here the Hurley Road acts as the main vein to a number of popular Pemberton spots.
Thanks to Backcountry Snowcats Ski Touring the Hurley road is groomed regularly. This makes getting where you need to go on your sled much easier and comfortable. BE AWARE: It's well known around these parts that sledders should stay away from where Backcountry Snowcats operates. If you have any questions regarding these boundaries feel free to contact the Snowcats owners Reg and Cathy at 604-894-7669.
According to Julie-Ann the two best places to sled on the Hurley are Hope Creek and Face Mountain.
"Face Mountain takes about 15 minutes from the truck… single track through the trees once you leave the cat track then opens up to alpine riding. Hope creek takes about 30 to 40 minutes from the truck. Hope Creek offers single track through the trees once you leave the cat track to open alpine riding, but has fun trees to play in below if its a low visibility or a snowy day."
Remember, always check the avalanche reports before heading out! You can find up to date reports at www.avalanche.ca.
Book a Tour With Julie-Ann Chapman
If you're
an inexperienced sledder or you're not quite comfortable with the
area, we always suggest going with a trained guide. Lucky
for you, Julie-Ann offers guided snowmobile tours with her company
She Shreds Mountain
Adventures.
Julie-Ann specializes in teaching riding clinics for women, but also offers guided adventures for both men and women. One of the most trusted guides and professionals in the industry, Julie-Ann posts weekly Ride Reports on her website every Thursday afternoon!
Photos Courtesy: She Shreds Mountain Adventure
Posted: Friday, December 18, 2015
