UNVEILING THE LEGACY: LUC’S CABIN - KAMLOOPS SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION
Snowmobilers visiting the Kamloops, bc Tranquille area this winter will have a new day-use warm-up shelter to enjoy, courtesy of the indomitable spirit and dedication of incredible volunteers.
In the heart of Kamloops' Tranquille wilderness, ‘Luc's Cabin’ now stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Luc Thibault, a devoted snowmobiler, outdoorsman, and invaluable volunteer with the Kamloops Snowmobile Association (KSA). Yet, beyond this singular tribute lies the vibrant tapestry of a snowmobile community that thrives on the dedication of countless volunteers working behind the scenes.
Kamloops, nestled in the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia, boasts an exceptional snowmobile culture, characterized by a shared passion for outdoor adventure. The club, voted Canadian Snowmobile Club of the year in 2020, maintains over 180km of family-friendly trails. They offer an additional 2,700 hectares of sub-alpine riding within the Porcupine Meadows Provincial Park.
The unsung heroes of this community are the volunteers, individuals committed to creating vibrant outdoor recreation opportunities. Their goal is not merely to carve trails through the snow-covered interior plateau but to warmly welcome individuals into their community and provide cherished gathering places for shared experiences.
The tale of Luc's Cabin begins with the tragic end of Luc's journey on February 9th, 2023, as he returned from a surveying job in Barriere. A collision with a semi claimed his life, leaving the community mourning the loss of a vibrant soul at the young age of 28.
In response to this heartbreaking loss Luc's employer and a circle of friends sought a meaningful tribute. Their vision materialized as Luc's Cabin, strategically placed at one of his cherished spots—a location steeped in decades of snowmobiling, hunting, and fishing memories with his father. This spot, where Luc proudly shot his first moose, stands as a memorial to his adventurous spirit.
The journey to construct Luc's Cabin faced its challenges. Fundraising efforts commenced, and the KSA ensured necessary approvals were secured before breaking ground. A meeting with the Secwépemc Nation and RSTBC resulted in project approval, setting the stage for a symbol of remembrance and resilience.
As fate dealt another blow with news of Luc's father, Marc, a dedicated KSA director, being diagnosed with cancer, the urgency to complete the cabin before winter intensified. Plans had to be reconsidered, but the community rallied. Long time volunteer Leo Samson and BC Snowmobile Federation President Peter Doyle led the charge, shifting construction indoors to Leo's spacious garage.
Volunteers, spurred by determination, ensured Luc's dream became a reality. Leo, an experienced project manager, took the lead, while Jared Benton and Damian Thomas managed the material logistics. Warm lunches provided by Clemence Samson fostered a sense of camaraderie among the dedicated team.
On December 9th, the completed cabin was transported to its final location, with 39 individuals braving the cold to witness the culmination of their efforts. Named ‘Luc's Cabin’, the site boasts an accompanying ‘Luc Thibault Trail’ with plans for additional signage directing users to the meadow beyond. Luc's legacy, a dynamic force within the KSA, lives on not just in the physical structure but in the hearts of all who knew him.
As we celebrate the completion of this shelter, it's essential to recognize the overarching dedication of the BC snowmobile community's incredible volunteers. Their commitment extends beyond individual projects, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all enthusiasts. Within the folds of this narrative, we shine a spotlight on the Kamloops Snowmobile Association—a hub of passion, camaraderie, and shared adventures in the stunning landscapes of British Columbia.
Luc Douglas Thibault
June 20, 1994- February 9, 2023
KAMLOOPS INSPIRATION
Kamloops Road Trip: Snowmobiling BC's Interior Plateau
Memories well-made and snowmobile adventures well played. Let curiosity be your compass through snow-covered rolling ridges, meadow complexes, and playful bluffs chiseled by ancient glaciers. Or begin your journey on the 463 km historic Gold Rush Snowmobile Trail. Welcome to Kamloops - where there is always a local event or trail waiting to be explored.
