Backcountry Snowmobiling in Revelstoke and Golden

Written by
Staff Writer
December 16, 2024
Last Update
First Published on

Fuel up your sleds and tighten your helmets - Revelstoke and Golden are calling! Known for their extremely deep pow and unbeatable backcountry terrain, these two hotspots are where sledders come to carve, climb, and leave it all on the mountain. Whether you’re a seasoned rider chasing epic climbs or a rookie ready to rip for the first time, here’s everything you’ll need to hit the throttle right. 

Keep it Safe

Before tearing up the backcountry, make sure you're prepared to handle the changing conditions. Be sure to take your AST 1 and/or 2, which are standardized training programs designed to educate people about avalanche safety and preparedness. Avalanche gear and precautionary planning is a must, so don’t forget: 

  • Beacon, probe, shovel
  • Extra petrol 
  • First aid kit
  • Water, lunch, and snacks 
  • Layers, extra gloves and goggles
  • Fire starting kit 
  • Tools and/or spare parts 
  • If you own it or have access to a satellite phone and airbag 

Pro tip: Always share your sledding plan and estimated return time with someone you trust before heading out, just in case anything happens. 

Check Conditions Before You Ride

Trail and avalanche conditions can change rapidly, so always check updates through trusted sources:

These resources provide real-time updates, safety tips, and even clinics to boost your skills. 

Photo Credit: Shortstache

Top Places to Ride in Revelstoke:

Home to some of the best sledding terrain in the world, attracting riders with epic untouched powder, endless trails, and iconic backcountry zones. Here are the must-ride spots:

Boulder Mountain

Boulder Mountain is a premier sled-zone, offering a mix of groomed trails, steep climbs, spaced out trees, and endless powder bowls. 

Rating: Family Friendly to Extreme

Features:

  • Parking lot and staging site.
  • Groomed access trails lead to massive alpine play areas. 
  • Cabin for warming up and having lunch.
  • Varied terrain perfect for both freeriders and technical sledders.
  • Amazing panoramic views of the summit.

View Boulder Mountain Map.

Photo Credit: Shortstache

Frisby Ridge

Known for its breathtaking scenery and wide-open terrain. It’s ideal for those who want to mix adventure with jaw-dropping mountain views. Frisby Ridge offers a more relaxed vibe compared to Boulder, making it a great spot for those looking to explore without having to tackle too much  extreme terrain. 

Rating: Family Friendly to Extreme

Features:

  • Parking lot and staging site.
  • Well-maintained trails with options for intermediate and advanced riders. 
  • Incredible ridge runs offering unparalleled vistas. 
  • Play zones perfect for powder carving. 

View Frisby Ridge Map.

Please note there is a trail fee in place for Boulder Mountain and Frisby Ridge, the daily fee is $30 per rider. If you’re planning multiple visits to Revelstoke this season, consider purchasing a Membership for the Revelstoke Snowmobile Club. Memberships come packed with perks and support the maintenance of these incredible trails. 

Photo Credit: Kootenay Rockies Tourism/Mitch Winton

Keystone

Offering a more remote and adventurous sledding experience compared to bustling trails of Boulder and Frisby. Keystone is a playground for advanced riders seeking a backcountry challenge. Please note there is a caribou closure on the North side of the mountain and Standard Basin from January 1 to April 15. 

Rating: Extreme

Features:

  • Parking lot ($10 is the suggested donation for parking) and staging site.Deep powder stashes. 
  • Remote terrain. 
  • Stunning views.
  • The Little Cabin, perfect for warming up and eating lunch. 

View Keystone Map.

Top Places to Ride in Golden:

Quartz Creek

Quartz Creek is at the heart of Golden’s snowmobiling scene, known for its consistent deep snow and expansive freeride terrain. Quartz Creek is also conveniently accessed from Highway 1. 

Rating: Beginner to Advanced

Features:

  • Parking and staging area.
  • Groomed access trails.
  • Cabin with outhouses, a BBQ, and internet. 
  • Three alpine bowls.

Trail fees: $35.00/sled a day. 

View Quart Creek Map. 

Photo Credit: Tourism BC

Silent Pass 

Offering a more rugged and less-traveled option for experienced riders. This remote area is all about untouched powder and adventure. A VHF radio is required as the Forest Service Road is active over the winter, all riders must call their location every kilometer. 

Rating: Beginner to Advanced 

Features:

  • Parking and staging area.
  • Pristine backcountry riding. 
  • Alpine bowls. 

Trail fees: $30.00/sled a day. 

View Silent Pass Map. 

Old Man 

A newer riding area in Golden, Old Man is a backcountry gem. Offering a combination of deep snow and rugged terrain. The riding area is conveniently located next to Quartz Creek staging area. 

Rating: Advanced.

Features:

  • Powder-filled bowls. 
  • Steep accents, tree lines, and technical sections. 
  • Offers a sense of solitude and adventure from busier trails. 

Trail fees: $25.00/sled a day. 

If you’re planning multiple visits to Golden this season, consider purchasing a Membership to Sled Golden. Memberships come packed with perks and support the maintenance of these incredible trails. 

Photo Credit: Sled Old, Old Man

No Rig? No Worries

Don’t own a sled but dying to ride? Rent or join a crew for a powder-chasing adventure. Both destinations offer excellent rental options and guided tours.

Revelstoke Rentals and Tours

Stoked Mountain Adventures: 

Offers premium sleds including Ski-Doo, Arctic Car, and Polaris.

 

Full Speed Rentals

Offers a selection of premium sleds and snowbikes, this year their fleet includes Ski-Doo, Lync, and Polaris. In addition to rentals, checkout their clinics offered by 8x X-Games Medalist Brett Turcotte. 

Great Canadian Tours: 

Offers high-performance sled rentals and guided trips to Boulder and Frisby, perfect for riders of all levels.

Photo Credit: Shortstache

Golden Rentals and Tours

Golden Snowmobile Rentals & Tours:

Offering full-service rentals and guided trips through Quartz Creek and Silent Pass. 

Snowpeak Rentals & Tours:

Offers premium sled rentals and customizable guided tours for all skill levels, plus avalanche safety gear. 

Rocky Mountain Riders:

Sled rentals and tours for beginners to experts, with a focus on safety and adventure. 

Photo Credit: Rocky Mountain Riders

Where to Stay in Revelstoke and Golden

Basecamp Resorts Revelstoke

Perfect for groups or families, this property features spacious rooms, two riverside hot tubs, BBQs, full-size kitchens and washer/dryers – everything you need to unwind and recharge after a day on the mountain. Located just 2 minutes from Highway 1, with parking (including trailer accommodations on request), it’s a sledder’s dream base!

Basecamp Suites Revelstoke

Like Basecamp Resorts Revelstoke, enjoy spacious rooms with modern amenities like full-size kitchens ideal for those looking for a convenient crash pad in Downtown Revelstoke. The property will also include two rooftop hot tubs opening later this season. 

Photo Credit: Innes Simpson

Northwinds Hotel Revelstoke

Newly renovated, this cozy and budget friendly hotel offers a welcoming vibe for all riders. With ample parking for trucks and sled trailers, plus easy access to both Downtown and Highway 1, it’s the perfect base for your sled advetnures. 

Basecamp Lodge Golden

Perfect for groups or families, Basecamp Lodge Golden features cozy fireplaces and modern comforts. Conveniently located off Highway 1 with parking for sled trailers, it’s the ideal spot to relax after a day in the surrounding mountains.

From epic terrain to unbeatable hospitality, Revelstoke and Golden have everything you need for unforgettable snowmobiling adventures. Gear up, ride deep, and let these powder-filled playgrounds leave you craving more.

Ready to plan your stay? Check out our latest offers for savings that will make your next adventures even sweeter!

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