Riding Mountain ride covers 575 kilometres in three days

Snowmobilers of Manitoba will mark its 50th anniversary with the Around the Mountain ride Jan. 29–31, a three-day loop of about 575 kilometres for up to 50 registered sleds. Riders will leave from Russell Inn in two groups and travel the park perimeter with dedicated safety support.

Snowmobilers of Manitoba is marking its 50th anniversary with a multi-day Around the Mountain ride around Riding Mountain National Park. The event is scheduled for Jan. 29–31 and will cover roughly 575 kilometres over three days, tracing the park perimeter on groomed trails. Up to 50 sleds will depart from Russell Inn and be split into two groups, one travelling clockwise and the other counter-clockwise. Organizers emphasize that the ride is intended for experienced riders and that safety planning has been central to preparations. Key details: - Dates and distance: Jan. 29–31, about 575 kilometres total, roughly 200 kilometres per day. - Group organization: Up to 50 sleds divided into two groups of about 25, departing from Russell Inn and circling the loop in opposite directions. - Safety measures: Each group will have three experienced safety captains (lead, mid-pack, rear) and a mandatory safety briefing on the morning of the ride. - Conditions and terrain: Organizers note varied terrain and changing weather as potential challenges, including hills, valleys, bush and open fields. - Local support and logistics: Trail systems of eight snowmobile clubs will be used, with coordination for grooming and warming shelters; room blocks are arranged in Russell, Neepawa and Dauphin and a social evening is planned in Russell following one day’s ride. - Participation and registration: Interest extends beyond Manitoba to Saskatchewan and Wisconsin; registration is open to the first 50 sleds at a cost of $100, and organizer contact details were provided in the announcement. Summary: Organizers say the ride will highlight community and economic benefits tied to local hotels, restaurants and clubs while offering a focused experience for experienced snowmobilers. The event is scheduled to proceed Jan. 29–31 with trail coordination and safety supports in place.