Iron Horse Trail, Alberta
Rail grade adventure
Steve and Lyn Hessels enjoyed two ATV rides on the Iron Horse Trail
All-season fun : Lyn Hessels basks by the North Saskatchewan River. —photo by Steve Hessels
Steve and Lyn Hessels of Edmonton, Alberta, love the Iron Horse Trail and have ridden their ATV on two stretches of it. The trail, which is part of the Trans Canada Trail, is well appointed with campsites and washrooms. There are special quad cattleguards through the fences so that ATVers don’t have to stop and open gates, something the couple appreciated.
Smoky Lake to Bellis—winter
In February two years ago, the Hesselses rode a stretch from Smoky Lake to Bellis; the terrain ranged from fields to sandhills. Near the trail were old farm sites, which Lyn enjoyed seeing.
“We couldn’t go too fast because we were on hard-packed snow,” said Steve.
The couple were safely prepared with warm clothing, extra food, a jerry can full of gas and fire-starting material.
“It was a good little trip to wring out spring fever,” said Steve.
St. Paul to Heinsburg—summer
On a hot, sunny day last summer, the couple camped behind the police station in St. Paul and rode east, enjoying marshlands, creeks and beautiful countryside. They had lunch at Elk Point, where a woman at the visitor centre watched their ATV.
They followed the trail into the North Saskatchewan River coulee and saw old Métis wagon trails and fur-trading forts.
“It was a magical area,” said Steve. “You could visualize the coureurs de bois, the voyageurs, the fur traders, trappers and Indians. My imagination gets fanciful with stuff like that.”
Another interesting section of the Iron Horse Trail is the northeast arm. This route passes through Bonnyville, which has excellent birding opportunities and a lovely downtown.
Alberta key contacts
When you store start with STA-BIL
STA-BIL Fuel Stabilizer is specially formulated to keep fuel fresh for quick, easy starts after storage. Normally, stored fuel can go bad in as little as 60 days, causing varnish deposits and corrosion to build up in engines; however, with STA-BIL's blend of scientific additives, fuel will stay fresh for up to two years (using twice the recommended dosage). It also cleans carburetors and fuel injectors, prolongs engine life and eliminates the need to drain fuel before storage. STA-BIL Fuel Stabilizer can be used for all two- and four-stroke gasoline engines, including snowmobiles, ATVs, motorcycles, boats, jet skis and other power equipment.
Gold Eagle Co
HOW DOES SNOWMOBILING AFFECT CARIBOU?
As most snowmobiling occurs in high elevation areas, there is the potential for snowmobiling to disturb and displace these animals from their preferred habitat into areas less suitable and more prone to avalanches. Mountain caribou may also become stressed, which can affect energy reserves during critical time periods. In addition, snowmobile trails can provide easier access for predators into areas occupied by mountain caribou. Please take caution and be aware of, and avoid, mountain caribou in your riding area.
Environmental Stewardship Division, Ministry Of EnvironmentPHONE: (250) 565-6135Email: e-mail this contact
Big-City Selection with Small-Town Charm
The friendly folks at A&B Liquor Store invite you to stop by and discover their impressive selection of wines, beers, liquors, coolers, and a fantastic display of giftware. They also make up unique gift baskets that can be filled with anything in the store—allowing you to add that personal touch for someone special. The staff and management of A&B take great pride in the top—notch service they provide to each and every customer, and are pleased to be a supplier for special events. A&B Liquor Store is conveniently located next to Tim Horton's, at the west access to Blairmore in the Crowsnest Pass.
Kootenay Rockies
Create your dual sport adventure today!
Dual Tracks Inc. is a dual sport motorcycle adventure company with guides who have years of backroad riding experience. We would like to introduce you to a DS motorcycle experience as we ride through the spectacular foothills and mountains of southern Alberta and British Columbia.
Dual Tracks offers adventure tours and training for either multi-day or multi-week sessions, as well as both half- and full-day rides. We supply bikes if needed, and meals for full-day participants.
Let us provide you with an unforgettable, challenging and safe DS ride. We believe that a great ride is best shared with others, hence our motto, “Dual Tracks, ride with friends.”