Dual-sport adventures
Join guides Darrell Hilliard and Russ Thompson on a back road adventure of a lifetime
Special access: Dual-sport bikes allow riders to access areas road bikes cannot, such as the Flathead. —photo courtesy Dual Tracks
Fuelled by their passion for adventure, Darrell Hilliard and Russ Thompson of Lundbreck, Alberta, started Dual Tracks, a company that specializes in multi-day backcountry tours on dual-sport bikes in the Rocky Mountains.
Hilliard and Thompson, who both have a background in the oil and gas industry, have shared an avid interest in motorcycles of all kinds for most of their lives.
“We’ve known each other since high school and have ridden together for years,” said Hilliard.
Hlliard and Thompson gravitated to dual-sport bikes for their versatility.
“The dual-sports will get you 90 per cent of the places a hardcore dirt bike would, but you don’t have to load and unload,” Hilliard said. “You just get back to the highway and go. You get more saddle time.”
Defining paths
When Hilliard and Thompson relocated from Calgary to Lundbreck, they found vast wilderness to explore. In an area that is in close proximity to Waterton Lakes National Park, the Continental Divide and Kananaskis Country—all accessible by gravel backroads—the men spent much of their free time in the mountains on their bikes. Over the course of several years, Thompson and Hilliard combed the area to the point that they had developed many multi-day routes, which Thompson mapped out and tracked with his GPS. Thompson uses his GPS quite a lot as a specialist in pipeline relocation.
In 2007, Hilliard and Thompson decided to create a company and developed formal multi-day tours and other services.
“We have introduced dual-sport skill-enhancement seminars as well,” said Hilliard. For Hilliard, one of the most gratifying aspects of running Dual Tracks is assisting his clients in developing their skills.
Exploring remote backroads
One favourite route of Hilliard’s involves riding west on the scenic stretch of Highway 3 from Lundbreck into B.C. Before the town of Sparwood, you leave Highway 3 and ride south along the Michel Creek drainage. From here, one route heads down to the now-closed Flathead border crossing several kilometres west of Akimina-Kishenina Provincial Park. This ride to the U.S. border follows the western edge of a dramatic limestone wall near Flathead Pass before meandering south along the Flathead River valley. On the way back, the route heads northwest through more spectacular country and eventually emerges from the gravel road back onto Highway 3 just west of Fernie. “Every time you go in there, you never know what the day is going to be like,” said Hilliard. “It becomes more technical. It is beautiful in there.”
Motorcycle key contacts
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Give your seat new life with SaddleSkins
Snowmobiles have special cover requirements. Extra cold weather can cause ordinary vinyl to split and crack. Travelcade SaddleSkins for sleds are made of a heavy-duty cold weather material that is impervious to cold down to more than minus 40 degrees. All features of the original seat are retained rear compartment, lights, side buffers all duplicated in our replacement covers.
SaddleSkins are available for motorcycles, ATVs and snowmobiles with original manufacturer s fit and design. Their weather-resistant vinyl endures all sorts of riding conditions, and replaces duct tape and unsightly tears at an economical price.
WARN XT and RT Winch Series: the best winches in the world are now even better.
The complete line of WARN Powersports winches lets you ride with confidence knowing that when you need to pull yourself out of the muck or move a heavy load, you'll be up to the task time and time again. Both the XT Extreme Terrain and RT Rugged Terrain winches are designed specifically for powersports vehicles. Standard features includes weather-resistant sealed construction; rugged and reliable three-stage planetary geartrains; patented disc brakes for enhanced control; efficient electrical systems for less battery drain; easy-to-use clutch dials; and legendary WARN quality. You can be assured these winches are the best on the market.
Both the SaddleSkins and WARN Powersports winches are available at Recreation Supply Co. Ltd. in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.
Recreation Supply Co. Ltd -
Hit the road, Jack
Over 15 years ago, Jack Industries designed and manufactured the Seat Jack. Today, we create 25 different passenger seat models to fit all Arctic Cat, Polaris, Ski-Doo and Yamaha snowmobile sport models, from 1992 and up. They’re easy to install, durable, comfortable and safe.
Another invention of ours—Retrack Jack—offers a safe and secure option for loading your recreational machines. This system features telescoping ramps that fasten in the box of a pickup truck. The ramps, which are made of galvanized steel, can be adjusted for loading and unloading a snowmobile or a four-wheeled vehicle. They are designed with Teflon runners and anti-skid supergrips. Visit our website for more information about Seat Jacks, Retrack Jacks and all other Jack accessories.
Jack Industries -
Your Honda headquarters
At B&F Sales & Service Ltd., located in Grand Forks, B.C., we specialize in superior customer service. Our large supply of Honda products includes ATVs, motorcycles, lawn and garden wares, generators, snowblowers, walk-behind mowers and water pumps.
Equipped with a fully stocked parts department, we'll help you find all the accessories and dress-up items you've been searching for. Our qualified technicians are ready and willing to help with any question or concern you may have.
Let our friendly sales staff and competitive service be the reasons why you choose B&F Sales & Service Ltd. for all your recreation needs.
B & F Sales & Service Ltd. -
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 -
Revelstoke, BC
Real mountain life is closer than you think!
Revelstoke is home to some of the best adventure recreation opportunities in the world hiking, mountain biking, fishing, whitewater rafting, heli-hiking, canoeing, ATVing and much more. With two national parks at our doorstep, we have everything from gentle hikes to challenging climbs, fields of alpine flowers, spectacular waterfalls and interesting interpretive centres.
The massive Revelstoke Hydro Dam and its self-guided tour is not to be missed. The beautiful Revelstoke Golf Club situated along the Columbia River is both scenic and challenging. Three area hot springs resorts are great places to relax and soak up some sun.
Tourism Revelstoke -
East Central. SK
The destination for every level of rider
You will find a surprise around every corner in Saskatchewan’s East Central region. The stunning transformation of the landscape from prairie to boreal forest showcases nature in its most grand form. Vast numbers of birds migrate through the area, making this an incredible destination for bird lovers. Unique communities are part of the mix, including four vibrant cities and a dynamic Ukrainian culture. Add a natural healing spa and a host of exciting events, not to mention a landscape that is truly an off-road enthusiast's dream. It is no wonder that our area won nine Rider’s Choice Awards for our spectacular ATVing terrain.
East Central Tourism -
Satisfy your thirst, we're open late!
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. They also offer ample parking for your convenience.
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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." -
Rocanville, SK
Come in and save!
Universe Satellite Sales Ltd. has their customers' convenience and satisfaction in mind. They sell a wide range of products, from Star Choice digital satellite TV, to new and used leisure and riding equipment including Arctic Cat machines, motorcycles and top-selling brands of helmets and activewear. They also have one of the largest parts stock around and two factory-trained techs to work on your sled or ATV. Stop in and see their world class showroom, with exciting displays to catch your eye. The staff at Universe Satellite Sales are glad to be available for all your parts and service needs!
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Hudson Bay, Sk
Saskatchewan's great escape
Hudson Bay is a great place for riders, with challenging terrain and trails that run for hundreds of kilometres. The town is surrounded by the Porcupine and Pasquia provincial forests, and there is abundant wildlife to see.
Hudson Bay won several 2009 Rider's Choice awards from RidersWest magazine. They earned a silver award for Favourite Area for Family ATVing, gold awards for both ATVing Area You Would Like Most to Ride in the Future and Favourite Overall ATVing Area in Saskatchewan, and a platinum award for Most Challenging ATVing Area.
Hudson Bay Tourism -
The small shop with big service
Season's Edge Recreation has been serving Nipawin and surrounding area for more than 12 years, and we are dedicated to our customers' needs. Like our customers, we are also snowmobile and ATV enthusiasts.
Here at Season's Edge we ride what we sell so we are able to understand and respond to your needs. We know how important it is for you to have a great experience every time you ride.
On our days off, we look forward to jumping on our toys and hitting the trails or venturing out into the back country, so don't be suprised if you meet up with us next time you're out for a ride.Season's Edge Recreation