The City of Thompson was named Northern Manitoba’s first certified sled-friendly community by SledMB53 last week.
An organization that promotes Manitoba snowmobile tourism north of the 53rd parallel, SledMB53 launched its free online sled-friendly certification program in November as a way to encourage communities and businesses to identify themselves as snowmobile-friendly destinations.
“We’re excited to lead the province in earning sled-friendly certification,” said Mayor Colleen Smook in an article on the city’s website. “It wouldn’t be possible without the businesses in our community who support snowmobiling, and without our local Thompson Trailbreakers snowmobile club, who help maintain our local trail network.”
Among the criteria for a sled-friendly designation are ample parking for vehicles and snow machines, snowmobile access to services such as food, fuel, restrooms and wifi, as well as access to trailheads.
“We are happy that Thompson is the first community to become sled-friendly,” said SledMB563 project manager Al McLauchlan. “This shows the commitment that the city has for snowmobiling.”
Businesses and communities that are certified as sled-friendly are recognized on SledMB553’s website and social media channels and receive a sticker to display, both of which could help attract more visitors.
“Snowmobiling plays a big role in communities across Northern Manitoba, and we’re excited to see the certification appear across the region,” said Smook. “The best part about snowmobiling in the north is that no matter where you go, you’re welcome here.”
SledMB53 is managed by Community Futures North Central Development, CF Greenstone, CF Cedar Lake and the Communities Economic Development Fund/Look North and supported by Travel Manitoba and snowmobile clubs in Northern Manitoba.
“Snowmobiling adds over $340 million to the provincial economy and can help the north in future tourism initiatives,” said McLauchlan.
To register for sled-friendly online training and certification go to www.sledmb53.ca or wwwmtec.ca.
