Rediscovering Richardson
A group of ATVers venture into the remote Richardson Backcountry
Matt Rakach (L) and Stephan Landry had fun playing in the sand dunes. — Photo by Cal Rakach
This was my second trip into the Richardson Backcountry, north of Fort McMurray, Alberta. The first time I went in was to witness the expanse of the area and assess the current trail system and infrastructure. Several years back, as president of the Alberta Off Highway Vehicle Association, I was assisting the Wood Buffalo ATV Club in the access management planning process that Alberta Sustainable Resource Development was engaged in. Clearly, it would be impossible to provide credible insights without hands-on knowledge of the area; I had to take one for the team and head in to see the area for myself. That was two years ago and after extensive discussion at the negotiation table, a workable plan for the most part had been drafted. Despite agreement on how to move forward with all parties present at the table, the plan’s implementation has been delayed by the newly instituted First Nations consultation process. So with no plan being put into force, status quo remains with limited ability of the club to take official stewardship of the area and opportunities beyond our grasp. h3. Back into the bush With an invite from Gene Ouelette of the Wood Buffalo ATV Club, it was time to head back in and see how the area has sustained the increase in usership and evaluate the trail development that had occurred. With my son Matt in tow, we headed up to Ft. Mac to join Gene, Krystal Kent and daughter Kaytlynn along with visiting young cousins Stephan and Matt Landry, to load custom-built tub trailers with six days of supplies. The trip’s added bonus was that several government folks I work with on a regular basis were also going to be up in the area. Discussions in the bush, on the ground, are always more fruitful. With Matt and I on sport quads, my Suzuki Canada/Walt Healy/Maverick Distributing/Motovan LTZ400 and the family Honda 400EX, we were subject to the grace of our hosts to cram our gear into the already full trailers. Due to the distances away from any form of outside contact, a trip into Richardson requires equipment that is in excellent working order. We had confidence in our equipment and the tub trailers were full of supplies and fuel for five machines. The Richardson Backcountry is an extensive sand dune complex known as the Athabasca Plain on the edge of the Canadian Shield. Staging, located approximately one hour north of Fort McMurray, takes this trip into the very northeastern corner of Alberta—a challenge for the average backcountry adventurer. Adjacent and within the boundaries of Richardson are four protected areas: Marguerite River Wildland, Richardson River Dunes Wildland, Maybelle River Wildland and Athabasca Dune Ecological Reserve. Parks and Protected Areas, a different government department than the rest of the backcountry, manage these areas. Other than a short section of trail in Maybelle River Wildland, all motorized access has been closed. Discussion in the overall planning process around re-opening existing trails or evaluating opportunities within these areas was very limited. The primary access from the staging area is the Fort Chipewyan winter road. Since sand is prone to whooping out as the season’s ATV traffic mounts, a trip earlier in the summer is more enjoyable. With most of the lakes and camping beginning some 60 kilometres in, a whooped-out trail is hard on equipment and the body. Our trip in at the end of July still put us on the good trail surface and kilometres could be made in short order. An important part of my trip in was to view a new trail that was constructed to replace a section of historic trail falling within the Athabasca Dunes Ecological Reserve. Current regulations do not permit any motorized traffic within this type of designation, thus the Parks Department felt this warranted the additional footprint on the landscape via rerouting around the reserve. It didn’t take long travelling on the new section to see that from a technical standpoint the trail suffered from many of the classic flaws in trail construction on sand—too narrow, too winding, blind corners, etc. More disturbing was the fact that the original trail was clearly visible, paralleling a mere kilometre to the north. These findings provided fodder for morning coffee discussions with the government staff who were working in the area. h3. Thrills and spills It can’t be all work and no play when visiting such a spectacular place with four excited young people. A trip out to the Richardson Dunes, the remaining dune complex open for ATVing, gave the boys a chance to experience the excitement and challenge of this type of riding. An afternoon fish on the lake jacked up the fun factor with younger Matt latching on to a 15-pound northern pike—a fish nearly the same size as the fisherman. This fish provided many meals for the crew. With nothing but sand around, every lake has vacation-brochure-quality beaches, so an afternoon doing beach time was imperative. And a trip like this isn’t complete without the mechanical mishaps. Matt and I had driven about seven kilometres before noticing the back rack and contents on the 400EX had broken off and jumped ship. A lid on a tub trail blew its moorings, leaving a yard sale down the trail, and a trailer tongue twisted off from the continuous pounding, allowing the trailer to have some freedom to head down the trail at its own free will, thankfully stopping intact. This last one was noticed right away and not 15 minutes further down the trail like the others. h3. Much more to explore The Richardson remains remote and a trip in should not be taken lightly. Help is nowhere near. The challenge is well rewarded and embeds a desire to return. The future of the area does remain in question until a final management plan is put in place. The expanse of sand makes trail development both easy and difficult. As this all unfolds, I am only left one alternative … plan for my next trip in, as one must remain well informed to participate in meaningful dialogue. And since the world is run by those who show up, I’m planning to show up.
Alberta key contacts
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Outlaw Eagle 2011 World Jet Boat Marathon
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Alberta BeachGet out and ride!
Ecko Marine Ltd. carries top brands like Can-Am, Sea-Doo, Ski-Doo and Evinrude at great prices. We proudly serve Edmonton, Calgary and other Alberta locations, where we specialize in ATVs, snowmobiles, PWCs and boats, and stock thousands of other accessories, parts and clothing items. Offering both new and pre-owned machines, and giving you the most friendly and efficient service, we are confident that you will be one of our many satisfied customers. Check out our extensive online inventory, and make plans to stop in and see us anytime!
Ecko Marinewww.eckomarine.com 
Grande Prairie, ABWe are your four-season destination!
Stanford Hotels & Resorts are the ideal accommodations for riders! Take advantage of our $89.00 ride rate. The Grande Prairie location offers ground floor rooms, meaning you are never far from your pride and joy. As well, the inner courtyard parking lot gives you peace of mind during your stay. Choose Stanford Hotel Grande Prairie if you are looking for that home away from home feel and great service! We are your four-season destination, so check out our summer rates for motorcyclists, which includes a complimentary bike wash.
*Taxes and applicable fees will be added to this rate.Stanford Inn - Grande Prairiewww.grandeprairiestanfordhotel.com
Calgary, ABImproving your safety with Smart-Antenna technology
At Ortovox we consider safety our number one priority. We are known globally for high-quality mountain sports products for summer and winter, which meet the highest standards of quality, functionality and design and allow a safe mountain adventure. We offer top-of-the-line products, such as the new S1+ avalanche transceiver, which combines two unique transceiver innovations, and the 3+ transceiver, a three-antenna device with a special extra function to first enhance your own safety. The intelligent position recognition system analyzes the position of the antennas and automatically switches to the optimal transmitting antenna. There is no longer any such thing as the 'worst position.'
Ortovox Canada Ltd.www.ortovox.com
AlbertaDiesel performance is our passion.
At North American Diesel Performance, we carry aftermarket parts for all major manufacturers of diesel trucks such as Dodge, Ford, GMC, Chevrolet and even for your car or RV. We are your one-stop shop for the latest technology from the best brands in the industry. We stock par ts from ATS Diesel Performance, Magnaflo Performance Exhaust, DIESEL POWER®, PPE, Howes, Dr. Performance, Amsoil and much much more! There are endless possibilities and customizable packages for every type of driver. We test each product in our own diesel trucks before we make them available to you, and we are the leaders in our industry because diesel performance is our passion.
North American Diesel Performancewww.nadp.ca
Drayton Valley, ABFirst Choice Recreation: Your BRP dealer for sales and service
First Choice Recreation is your BRP dealer for all sales and warranty on Can-Am and Ski-Doo products. We work on all makes and models of ATVs, SSVs and snowmobiles, with special attention to customer service and quality new and used inventory. We stock bike chains, filters, oil, brakes, spark plugs and more. We also have a large selection of quad and snowmobile belts, tires and rims, helmets, gloves, goggles, footwear, clothing and accessories to suit every rider.
First Choice Recreation LTD.www.firstchoicerecreation.com-
Camrose, AlbertaWe service what we sell
Welcome to Camrose Arctic Cat, where the variety of powersports products is second to none. Whether you're waist-deep in snow or just itching to get to the track, we're here to help. We're happy to help you find either the perfect recreational vehicle or the parts you've been looking for. Check out our products page to see what we have; and if you need help in making your selection, call or stop in—we're always ready to help! At Camrose Arctic Cat in Camrose, Alberta, you'll find ATVs, Snowmobiles, utility vehicles and other powersports gear from industry leaders like Arctic Cat.
Camrose Arctic Catwww.camrosearcticcat.com 
Edmonton, ABWe've got your sport covered
Martin Motor Sports is proud to be your first stop for all your recreation needs. As the exclusive MasterCraft dealer in Alberta and Saskatchewan, we are committed to providing you with high quality products and unparalleled customer service. We've got your weekends covered with full parts, service, finance and accessories departments, along with a very knowledgeable and experienced staff. Whether it's spring, summer, winter or fall we've got the right product for you! We carry Can-Am ATVs and Roadsters, Sea-Doo watercraft and sport boats, Manitou pontoon boats, Supra, Moomba and MasterCraft luxury boats and Ski-Doo snowmobiles, to name a few. Martin Motor Sports is your one-stop shop for everything recreation.
Martin Motor Sportswww.martinmotorsports.ca
Mighty Peace River, ABCome join us on the wide open roads
The Land of the Mighty Peace stretches across northwestern Alberta, from the British Columbia border along the Northwest Territories border, deep into Wood Buffalo National Park. The Peace River has created a magnificent theatre of nature, inspiring scenery, rolling hills, and stunning river banks.
Riding through this magnificent territory is an experience you will never forget. Find yourself surrounded by breathtaking boreal forests and stop along the way to visit one of the many fine attractions in the area. The Mighty Peace Country offers something for all; urban exploration and nightlife, a vast and relaxing nature, history, fishing, camping and adventure. The Mighty Peace Tourism Association is now offering a waterproof circle tour map featuring plenty of roadside attractions and icons, as well as discounted accommodations just for our rider friends.Mighty Peace Tourism Associationwww.ridenorth.ca
Cranbrook, BCYour four-season headquarters to enjoy all outdoor activities
Voted by Trip Advisor as "Top 10 in the country for best value" for three years running, this new lodge is located at the west entrance to Cranbrook, overlooking the 250-acre Elizabeth Lake Lodge Bird Sanctuary. Every unit has a full kitchen with a real hardwood floor entrance. The rooms feature Windsor beds, flat-screen TVs and heated Italian tile in every bathroom. There is high-speed wireless and plug-in Internet, and lots of secure parking for longer units. An RV park and History of the Kootenays mini-golf course are also located on the premises.
Elizabeth Lake Lodgewww.elizabethlakelodge.com
A global company with a proven track record
Camoplast Solideal is a world leader in the design, manufacturing and distribution of off-road tires, rubber tracks, undercarriage systems, wheels, body dressing parts, under-the-hood plastic components and assemblies, molded skis, engine covers, thermal and air induction systems. As a strategic supplier to leading Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), we deliver our products directly to their assembly lines. We use the full power of our experience, engineering expertise, innovation skills, support and best-in-class manufacturing capabilities to deliver high-performance products of unrivalled quality and value. On the strength of a global team of close to 8,000 dedicated experts, we operate advanced research and development centres, manufacturing plants in Canada, the USA, Europe and Asia, and distribution facilities on all continents.
Camoplastwww.camoplastsolideal.com-
Calgary, AB
Go over the top!
What better way to spend those bleak winter days than by riding in the breathtaking scenery of the Canadian Rockies? Over the Top Rentals offers new 2012 Arctic Cat, Ski-Doo and Polaris mountain sleds. Thrill-seekers will enjoy our Yamaha Nytro Turbo. Over the Top Rentals is in a great location in south Calgary, just five minutes off Deer Foot Trail. We offer to shuttle sleds to the Crowsnest Pass and B.C. for weekend rentals, and we also rent avalanche beacons. For more information on our company, including the tour options available, visit our website www.overthetoprentals.com.
Over The Top Rentals 
Get in on the action
If you consider yourself a powersports enthusiast and are interested in breaking into the industry, the Outdoor Power Equipment Technician Program or Motorcycle Mechanic, Pre-Employment Program is right for you. Offered at GPRC Fairview College Campus, these programs provide students with the skills that are in demand by North America’s recreational powersports industry. Students obtain the current knowledge of emerging technologies, combined with relevant, hands-on experience; and that’s exactly what employers are seeking. Furthermore, students in either program are eligible to write the Alberta Apprenticeship exams, their first step towards obtaining their Journeyman status in the trade. For more information, call Les Ashton or Brad Chorney at 1-888-999-7882.
Grande Prairie Regional Collegewww.gprc.ab.ca/fairview-
Fort Saskatchewan, AB
Elk Island Sales Inc.
Quality products from Polaris and Victory.
Elk Island Sales Inc.www.elkisland-polaris.com -
Polaris - Honda - Argo - Husqvarna
Dedicated to providing our customers with service, quality products and competitive pricing.
Athabasca Outdoor Productswww.athabascaoutdoors.ca -
Bonnyville, AB
A rock-solid reputation of providing excellent service, support and satisfaction.
At Motion Motor Sports, we offer you the best service available, the best parts and accessories, and a staff that understands all aspects of the motor sports business.
Motion Motor Sportswww.motionmotorsports.com -
Alberta
So many Arctic Cat models to choose from.
At Checker'd Flag Sports in Hanna, Alberta, every recreation enthusiast will feel welcome. See our lineup of cutting edge Arctic Cat models, and be amazed at what we have to offer.
Checker'd Flag Sportscfs@telusplanet.net -
Alberta
Offering the best in Yamaha and Arctic Cat machines
Northside Motorsports in Edson, Alberta, is proud to sell your favourite brands, and provide excellent customer service.
Northside Motorsportsnorthside.sales@telus.net - www.ralphsmotorsports.comAlberta
We carry a full line of ATVs, snowmobiles and accessories
Combining an awesome selection of machines and gear with premium customer service, repairs and financing options.
Ralph's Motorsportswww.ralphsmotorsports.com -
Alberta
The best name in powersports products
Come to Southland Powersports to find your ideal off-road bike, Yamaha ATV and other recreational vehicles.
Southland Powersportssouthpower@shockware.com -
Alberta
Using our vast experience to serve you better
Camrose Motorsports is proud to bring you the latest Honda power equipment; Honda and Bombardier recreational products; accessories, apparel and safety gear.
Camrose Motorsportswww.camhonda.ca -
Alberta
Let the good times roll, and see our latest specials on new and used machines
We are a dealer for New Holland agriculture and Kawasaki equipment, parts and service as well as Kawasaki ATVs, Mules and motorcycles, and many others.
Challenger New Holland Ltd.www.challengernh.ca 
Grande Prairie, ABWindsor Motorsports: A small store, with big deals!
At Windsor Motorsports, we ensure that you have the best bargains possible. Shop from our impressive selection of ATVs, motorcycles, scooters, pit bikes and boats, not to mention a variety of quality previously owned machines. We carry the top brands, such as Suzuki and PitsterPro, and we have financing options to suit every budget, so gear up and head down to our store today.
Windsor Motorsportswww.windsorrv.com