Resplendent with wildlife and breathtaking scenery, Smithers is home to a number of outstanding riding areas, all carefully maintained by the Bulkley Valley Quad Riders Association.
Quad Riders vice president Dave Tolton quips that he doesn't want to give away B.C.’s best-kept secret, but in reality the group is more than pleased to have new riders visit the area. They are proud of the work they’ve done to maintain the trails while safeguarding the environment and are eager to show it off.
Telkwa Pass
Accessed via the small community of Telkwa, 11 kilometres east of Smithers, Telkwa Pass is one of the area’s must-do rides. Visitors will find themselves surrounded by majestic peaks, glittering lakes and glacier-fed waterfalls. Riding areas range from beginner to intermediate, with the occasional advanced rocky section.
There are plenty of places to stop along the way, such as Blue Lake—a perfect spot for a picnic. At Trapper Mountain, located along the Copper River Road to Terrace, you’ll find year-round snowmobile cabins and rest areas. A quick 15-minute ride farther and you will be on top the world, or so it seems, with a 360-degree view of the massive mountain peaks surrounding you.
The Microwave
Winner of the 2011 Riders West Silver award for scenery, the Microwave is accessed through Telkwa. Riders follow an old forestry service road for a few kilometers into an open alpine area, which, according to vice president Tolton, “must be seen to be appreciated.”
This riding area is suitable for beginners and up. ATVers will find snowmobile cabins available for their use, along with an abundance of both wildflowers and marmots. Tolton advises riders to “bring the kids, bring a picnic, and most of all bring a camera.”
The Dome
Home to the Bulkley Valley Quad Riders’ annual poker rally, The Dome is located a couple of kilometers east of Smithers on the Old Babine Lake Road.
This area is best suited for intermediate to advanced riders, and winds its way past Paradise Lake and up to a receiver station. Here one finds more spectacular views of mountain ranges, ranch land and far off lakes.
Be sure to make use of the 900 feet of bridge system the BV Quad Riders have built in the Dome area. It was put in place to protect sensitive wetlands and allow mud-free access for users of all kinds.
If you haven’t been to Smithers, put it on your list for the summer. Nowhere else can you find such an abundance of incredible rides chockfull of breathtaking scenery and wildlife.
For more information, maps and upcoming events visit the Bulkley Valley Quad Riders website at bvquadriders.com
To see and do in Smithers
Centennial celebrations
The town of Smithers turns 100 this year and everyone is invited to celebrate. Events celebrating the centennial will be held throughout the year. Visit the Smithers 2013 website for dates and details.
Angler’s paradise
The Bulkley River is home to chinook and coho salmon as well as the much coveted steelhead. Hundreds of miles of rivers and an abundance of stunning lakes draw anglers from around the world.
Paddle up
From glass-like lakes glistening in the sunset to roaring whitewater rapids, canoeists and kayakers alike will find just what they are looking for in Smithers.
Visit smithers.ca for a complete listing of things to do and see in Smithers.
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