Ten things to know and prepare for when coming to the James Bay frontier for a snowmobile vacation.
1. The Snow, Cold and Wind
We consider winter to be between the months of November and April. The snow conditions usually become favourable soon after Christmas and are in use throughout the season. The snowmobile trails begin to deteriorate and become disactivated in March.
2. The Vast Wildlife
You can expect to encounter wildlife along your journey. You may have to follow a moose for a while who has decided to use the same short-cut. Stay behind until it trots into the woods at a point of its choosing.
Never try to feed animals in the North. It is not meant to be treated as a circus.
Never try to run down a wolf pack.
I don't quite know how to say this. OK. If you stay on the trails you won't run over a hibernating bear. If you do decide to run over a hibernating bear it will be angry.
3. Ice on Waters
Always make sure ice conditions on lakes and rivers is at the time of your crossing.
If you see water on the lake do not assume there is ice underneath it. Water on the lake is a competent indicater that there is no ice on that spot. Stay on the trail, they are maintained for your safety. Keep in touch with local credible trail reports.
River and bridge crossings are clearly marked. Examine all crossings yourselves and proceed cautiously and in a safe manner.
4. Bare Patches on Trails
At the beginning of the sledding season, at the end and during warm spells, bare spots can appear on the trails and be dangerous. Avoid bare spots carefully and again, keep tabs on trail conditions with a trusted source.
5. Trail Partners and Showing Off
Never travel the trail systems alone. Thinking that someone will be along the way soon after a break-down is a mistake in Northern Ontario. Always have another snowmobile with you as you sweep through our northern hills.
If you need to release your adrenaline by doing stunts and showing off, do so away from the trail system. Find out where the locals go to play, I'm sure they'll gladly tell you.
At all times, try to follow posted rules and speed limits on the trails.
6. First Aid Kit and Course
Have a First Aid kit with you at all times and it's a good idea to be updated on First Aid procedures just in case.
7. Trail Passes
Avoid hassles. Get a trail pass. We pay inspectors to patrol our system. Your trail passes fees mostly go back into managing the trails system and paying for security. Please support our resources, just buy a trail pass.
Our trail inspectors are professionals and will treat you with ther upmost respect, but there is a penalty for not having a trail pass and they will enforce it.
8. Track Weather Yourselves
Keep in touch with the weather. An ethical winter tourism manager will give you accutrate details regarding the conditions. Use trusted snowmobiling vacations destinations.
9. Plan for Emergency
Know what to do in case of an emergency.
10. Know Your Routes
Get up-to-date trail maps.
The trails are well marked but a person can get lost in the North. Have an accurate trail map and know your route by heart. If you have any questions, your tour guides should be happy to assist you.
keep your speed down and ride safely
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