FOUR BC SNOWMOBILE GUIDES LEADING THE WAY…

Nov 3

And How They Might Just Change the Way You Experience BRITISH COLUMBIA’S Wildest TERRAIN THIS WINTER.

British Columbia’s backcountry has a reputation for being as wild as it is beautiful. The snowpack is complex, the terrain unpredictable, and the rewards unforgettable. What turns those challenges into confidence, and those nerves into skill, are the guides leading the way.

Across BC, certified snowmobile guides are helping riders of all levels build confidence, connection, and capability. They’re trained through the Canadian Motorized Backcountry Guides Association (CMBGA), the first certification of its kind in the world, blending avalanche expertise, terrain management, and mentorship that empowers riders to take the lead on their own adventures.

They’re not just showing the way; they’re changing the way we ride.

JULIE-ANN CHAPMAN

A true pioneer, Julie-Ann Chapman built She Shreds Mountain Adventures to help riders — especially women — tackle mountain sledding with confidence and control. Her clinics across Nelson, Revelstoke, Golden, and Valemount focus on precision riding and decision-making in technical terrain.

“If there had been courses like this when I started,” she laughs, “I probably would’ve cried a lot less.”

Julie-Ann’s approach is part coach, part tactician — equal measures finesse and focus. Her students walk away not just better riders, but smarter mountain travellers.

NADINE OVERWATER

In Revelstoke, Nadine Overwater is the kind of rider other guides look up to. A veteran with Great Canadian Tours and founder of La Niña Sled Camp, she’s logged thousands of hours in the deep snow — and built a career on sharp instincts and quiet authority.

“Trust — in your training, your team, your ability — that’s what keeps you grounded,” she says.

A CMBGA Board Member, Nadine helps shape the next generation of guides, setting the standard for what professionalism looks like in the field. She’s living proof that respect in the mountains is earned, not given.

SHELLEY FERGUSON

At Carl Kuster Mountain Park, Shelley Ferguson helps riders sharpen both skill and mindset across 100,000 acres of terrain in British Columbia’s Monashee Range. Known for her calm leadership, she brings structure and safety to a place defined by unpredictability.

“I used to push too hard,” she admits. “Now I know when guests need a break — or when they’re ready for the next line.”

Her mantra: Preparation and respect for the mountains. Shelley’s steady approach earns trust quickly — a reminder that control is the real currency of big-mountain riding.

SHENA THOMAS

Between Revelstoke and Sicamous, Shena Thomas channels both expertise and energy to every ride. As a certified avalanche instructor with Soul Rides and Mountain Stash Adventures, she’s built her reputation on technical skill and relatable teaching.

“When I started guiding, there wasn’t a formal standard for sled guides in Canada. Now riders know exactly what level of training and professionalism they’re getting.”

Sheena teaches awareness of terrain, of team, of self.

“Awareness changes how you ride, and how you lead.”

That mindset resonates whether you’re just learning throttle control or already chasing alpine lines at sunrise.

PLAN YOUR NEXT GUIDED EXPERIENCE

Across BC, certified snowmobile guides are setting the benchmark for safe, smart, and unforgettable adventure. When you see the CMBGA seal, you know your day is led by a professional who meets the highest standards in avalanche education, terrain management, and rider mentorship.

If you’ve ever wondered how far your riding could go, spend a day with a certified guide. They’ll show you that confidence isn’t something you’re born with - it’s something you build, one ride at at time.

FIND A CERTIFIED OPERATOR