Welcome

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