Winter temperatures and snowfall amounts vary from year to year in Tumbler Ridge. This year has been no exception. Being versatile in how we enjoy winter seems to be key.
The Wolverine Nordic and Mountain Society (WNMS) tracksetters got to work on the cross country trails at the golf course after the big snowfalls, setting track for both classic and skating techniques. We had excellent conditions to ski those trails in until the warm-up. It really is magical gliding along on one’s skis and having the wonderful Lost Haven cabin as a destination. The same can be said if one chooses to get there by snowshoe from the Saddle Club.
If you ever wonder where the name Lost Haven originated, I can tell you. Back when the cabin was built, there were a few club members who relocated from Leaf Rapids, Manitoba. There was a ski cabin located on the ski trails there which was called Lost Haven. Sadly, it burnt to the ground, but the name was then adopted for the WNMS ski cabin!
Justin Kruse also set more than ten km of ski tracks on Flatbed Creek. After over 30 years of skiing Flatbed Creek in the winter, I can honestly say that skiing the track-set trail on the creek was the best we have ever had!
Tumbler Ridge is unique that we have the contrast of skiing on the official WNMS ski trails, and also being able to explore our frozen creeks and canyons. The perspective one gets is dramatically different from how we experience these special places in the summer. Often the rocks have a glacé of frost that give one a special feeling of being in true wilderness. And it is no more than a five-minute drive to get to the trailheads for our ski trails, something few if any other communities can claim.
The snowshoe trail to Quality Falls was also packed well by all the folks who enjoyed it over Christmas. Having access to frozen waterfalls so close to town is a delight. Many of the Hoult benches are accessible by snowshoe. Birgit Sharman put together a brochure to direct people to each of them. No matter which bench you choose for your adventure, you are guaranteed a spectacular view. I have often commented to him that he has no idea how many people he has brought joy and peace to as they sit on his benches and are transported to places of tranquility. Thank you, John!
When it warms up it does get a bit more challenging to do all of these activities. But on the positive side, our roofs are becoming lighter as the snow melts off them.
We live in an amazing town in which our District staff do an amazing job keeping the paths and roads clear of snow and gravelled, so that no matter what, we can get out to enjoy the beauty our surroundings in the winter.
I am sure the snow and cooler temperatures will again prevail for us to enjoy our winter wonderland to its full potential.
