Dakota Ridge is a winter recreation area managed by the Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD). Many local residents have enjoyed the new road access to the upper parking lot and the network of groomed cross-country ski trails and snowshoe routes available this year.
If you have been curious about Dakota Ridge and would like to experience the area, plan on attending Snowfest 2009. Snowfest is on Sunday, March 15, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. A jointly sponsored event by the SCRD and the Tetrahedron Outdoor Club, Snowfest is a fantastic celebration of winter activity here on the Sunshine Coast. Demonstrations and events will be held throughout the day, including a cross-country ski loppet (fun ski race), demonstrations from the new Jackrabbit youth ski program, equipment demonstrations from local companies and fun family events.
The Sechelt Rotary Club will again supply food services and hot food, and an array of cold and hot beverages will be available for purchase. If you need to rent cross-country skis for the day, please do so off-site prior to Snowfest. Last year's Snowfest was incredibly successful, with hundreds of people attending. One major challenge for this year will be access to Dakota Ridge and parking. In order to minimize traffic congestion on the mountain roads, please adhere to the following guidelines: Carpool wherever possible. The mountain roads leading up to Dakota Ridge will be controlled on March 15 for Snowfest. A very limited number of vehicles will be allowed up to the top parking lot early in the day with full occupancy only. All other vehicles will be parked at a lower parking lot and visitors will be shuttled to the top parking lot using a network of shuttle vehicles. There will be an access fee of $2 per person. Maximum capacity for this event will be less than 500 people. Come early to ensure that you will have access. Be prepared for the weather. The snow is still falling in our mountains, so bring appropriate clothing for a day of fun on snow. If you are driving up to take the shuttle, ensure that your vehicle is prepared. Snow and ice can make for difficult driving conditions. Chains and/or four-wheel drive may be needed. Please be patient with the staff at Snowfest. The volunteers will be doing their very best to bring you an excellent experience. Please leave your dog at home for Snowfest. All events and activities for Snowfest are free of charge. For more information, see the Dakota Ridge page on the SCRD website at www.scrd.ca.
