Sledding with kids

[altaredneck]

This has probably been discussed before but I'm not sure how to find it. I'm outta the calgary area and want to take my 8 year old son to the mountains around Xmas planning on getting him a newer machine 340 or 440. Looking for mountain riding options with dare I say it no avalanche risk. Wondering if such a thing exists. My son has previous riding experience on his 120 so he's not totally green but not ready for extreme either. Your advices are greatly appreciated. Thx

 

[Trukker]

I usually take my son to Fernie as he enjoys the groomed trail and open areas behind the cabin . Safe from AVI'S area's .

 

[catinthehat]

The Lumberton area outside Cranbrook is a good place to go for a safe ride, not too many avalanche zones where beginners ride.

 

[LUCKY 7]

I have taken my son many times up to Coal Creek and it's been great. There are many area's up there that safe. He is now 13 and loving the sport

 

[senorjeem]

Hey Altaboy....been there done that! Know that there are very few areas that you can't take greenies to! The only caveat is that, there are going to be places that you won't take them, within those areas. Forester near Radium has a great area to ride in that has gradually increasing slopes to let them experiment on. So does Boulder. Don't hold them back unreasonably, to the point that neither of you are having fun!! Just take them into the main areas, and set some ground rules when you get there. ie. I don't wanna have to chase you outta there!, or you can go as far as that, but not into that area..... that kind of thing. Between my buddy and I we have 3 kids, who started very young and who can ride the pants off of most flatlanders. The pipeline in Fernie is a great starting place, lotsa meadow riding!! Doesn't matter really where you go, you just need to be an active partner....don't bring them in and then feel the need to screw off and make your highmark somewhere. I would take the time to introduce you to areas in and around Sicamous if you wanted to make the trek.