WOMEN OF WINTER: GOLDEN’S LADIES RIDE BUILDS CONFIDENCE AND COMMUNITY IN THE MOUNTAINS
There is something powerful about a group of women heading into the mountains together. In Golden, British Columbia, that spirit came to life during the Sled Golden Ladies Ride, a two-day event that brought riders together to share time in the backcountry, build confidence, and celebrate a shared passion for snowmobiling.
Organized by local riders Jordyn Wong and Nikki Kelly, the ride welcomed about 30 women from across BC and Alberta, with others making the journey from as far away as Alaska and Idaho to be part of the experience. For many participants, the weekend was more than just time on the snow — it was an opportunity to meet new riding partners and experience the mountains in a supportive and welcoming environment.
“We wanted to create the kind of riding day we would have loved when we were starting out,” said the duo. “A welcoming space where women could connect, learn from each other, and build confidence in the mountains.”
EXPLORING GOLDEN’S TERRAIN
Over two days, riders explored two of Golden’s most well-known snowmobiling areas.
The first day took the group into Silent Pass, a spectacular alpine riding zone known for its wide open terrain and sweeping mountain views. Riders spent the day exploring powder-filled bowls and scenic alpine areas that showcase the beauty of Golden’s surrounding backcountry.
On the second day, the group headed to Quartz Creek, one of Golden’s most iconic snowmobiling destinations. With its combination of open slopes, technical tree riding, and varied terrain, Quartz Creek offered the perfect playground for riders of different experience levels.
Together, the two areas highlighted what makes Golden such a special place to ride. The region offers terrain that allows riders to challenge themselves while still providing space for learning and progression.
A RIDE BUILT ON ENCOURAGEMENT
While the terrain was impressive, the true highlight of the event was the atmosphere created by the riders themselves.
From the moment the group hit the snow, the vibe was supportive, encouraging, and adventurous. Experienced riders shared tips with those newer to mountain riding, and riders worked together throughout the day helping dig out sleds, navigating terrain, and celebrating each other’s successes.
By the end of the weekend, many of the women who had arrived as strangers were riding together like longtime friends.
One of the most rewarding moments for organizers was seeing riders push past their comfort zones. Watching someone attempt a challenge they were nervous about in the morning — and then seeing them smiling about it later in the day — became one of the most memorable parts of the ride.
STRENGTHENING THE SNOWMOBILE COMMUNITY
Events like the Golden Ladies Ride are helping grow and strengthen the snowmobile community by creating welcoming opportunities for women to ride together and develop their skills in the mountains.
The event was also supported by Golden’s local riding community, with several businesses and industry partners stepping up to sponsor the ride and contribute prizes for participants. That support reflects the collaborative spirit that helps make snowmobiling in Golden such a vibrant and welcoming experience.
For many riders, the greatest takeaway from the weekend wasn’t just the terrain or the riding — it was the connections made along the way.
LOOKING AHEAD TO NEXT YEAR
For women thinking about joining the ride in the future, organizers say the message is simple: just come out and ride.
You don’t need to be an expert rider to take part. The goal of the event is simply to bring women together who love sledding and want to build confidence, skills, and friendships in the mountains.
Because at the end of the day, events like the Golden Ladies Ride are about more than just riding. They’re about the community that forms out in the mountains — and the shared adventures that keep riders coming back for more.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO GOLDEN
Inspired by the Golden Ladies Ride? The mountains around Golden offer some of the most iconic snowmobiling terrain in British Columbia, from the wide-open alpine of Silent Pass to the deep powder playground of Quartz Creek.
Start planning your trip and discover where to ride, where to stay, and how to experience Golden’s legendary sledding.
