Símpcwemc lived in deep relationship with this land for generations. They continue to move with the same care, ceremony, and respect that their ancestors did. This is the legacy that we benefit from. What we cherish today was protected long before us, and we owe more than just an acknowledgement. We owe respect and a commitment to carry that forward. While we cannot change the past, we can choose to honour it by listening, showing gratitude,and walking forward with openness and responsibility.
The Valemount and Area Recreation Development Association (VARDA) is a non-profit association, consisting of a range of local business and backcountry users. Our key goals are focused on community and public education to help backcountry use and improve the backcountry experience for all user groups. VARDA assists in managing a Sustainable Resource Management Plan (SRMP) for our area the covers territory from Horsey Creek to Blue River.
The SRMP was developed for:
- Security of investments
- Protection for public access to crown land
- And sustainability of growth for each outdoor recreational activity
In addition, VARDA assists governments in the management of the recreational snowmobiling sector and mountain bike in the Valemount area. We oversee grooming, manage trailhead staff, area maintenance and trail development. Much of our efforts are put towards rider education relating to ethical riding, wildlife sensitivities, safety and backcountry stewardship. As the association grows we will focus on further developing the other outdoor recreational activities that our valley has to offer.
As our original mission statement (created back in 2004) predicted, VARDA has built on the success of the winter recreation and we have begun to move Valemount further towards a sought after, year-round recreation destination with the development of one of British Columbia’s newest and most sought after mountain bike trail systems.
Membership is key! As a membership driven non-profit, VARDA relies on participation and support from our members. Please sign up for a VARDA membership in the links above, ask you friends to do the same, and be proud to support a group that has your best interests in mind. There are many benefits associated with membership besides general support and you will find them under the membership section on this website.
Thank you for your interest in VARDA and Valemount.
To contact us:
VARDA
Box 721 Valemount BC V0E 2Z0
250.566.4817 ph/f
info@ridevalemount.com
Latest News
Multisport Season? Or is it just time to trade tracks for tires?
Winter isn’t done with us just yet… but it’s definitely on its way out. Spring sledding is still on in Valemount. Access is getting a bit dodgy in spots, and you’ll need to work for it, but if you’re willing to put in the effort, there are still some great days to be had in the alpine. At the same time, we’re shifting gears… Tires are back in play. Lower elevation trails in the Valemount Bike Park are starting to open up, and things are shaping up nicely. Early season riding is here, and it’s only going to get better from...
read moreThat’s a wrap for winter operations 2025 2026
Well, that’s a wrap on the grooming operations for the 2025 / 2026 season! We want to send a huge THANK YOU to everyone who supported our little village this year. You choosing to Ride Valemount this year means so much to our community. Also a big job well done to our grooming team for another amazing season. It was a challenging one for sure but this team got it done! And to all of our members and sponsors. You are simply the best, and your contributions to the work that we do go much farther than you think. The emotions that come from...
read moreLocal family wins Snowmobile Family of the Year
Huge congrats to all of the BC Snowmobile Federation award recipients from this years AGM and especially to the Gidney Family from Valemount for winning Snowmobile Family of the Year !
read moreWinter storm warnings in affect for the Yellowhead
Winter storm warnings have been in affect for a few days now and the valley bottom is a winter wonderland. While spring conditions looked to be settling in last week, it seems that we are back to full on winter. We have no first hand reports from the alpine although this HAS to be adding up in the high country. There is only so much winter left. Get it before it’s gone!
read moreWinter has returned!
Snow has been falling for several hours now! Our trailhead staff at Allan Creek just reported in with over 15cm in the parking lot already this morning. The webcam is also looking pretty sharp! With even more snow in the forecast, its going to be a pretty rad time to #ridevalemount this week. Before you gear up, book your next trip or even purchase that new sled or UTV, take a look at the businesses that support our riding areas. The fuel in your truck, the parts on your sled, the room you stay in and the places you eat and drink, all connect...
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