The Interlake Offroad Club is gearing up for another exciting season with much to look forward to in the year ahead.
The Interlake Offroad Club recently hosted a community trail development meeting in Balmoral where attendees learned about multi-use trail planning, trail safety, upcoming projects and more. Throughout the year, the club participates in events in the communities it rides through
The club recently hosted a community trail development meeting in Balmoral where attendees learned about multi-use trail planning, trail safety, upcoming projects and more.
The club’s origins date back to 2010 when a small group of riders got together for a few trail rides before spurring on a bigger vision.
“Early on, the club built its reputation by organizing fun, grassroots events like group rides and mud bogs — bringing people together who shared a passion for off-roading and the outdoors,” said Calvin Sedleski, president of Interlake Offroad Club.
“From those humble beginnings, a strong community was formed — built on camaraderie, adventure and a love for the trails.”
Today, the Interlake Offroad Club has grown into an active and organized group that hosts at least eight rides each year across Manitoba and northwestern Ontario. The rides attract participation from everyone ranging from seasoned riders to families across the region’s scenic terrain.
The current 95-kilometre trail system connects a growing number of communities across the Interlake, including Arborg, Silver, Meleb, Fraserwood, Malonton, Komarno, Teulon, Gunton and Balmoral.
“This network is more than just trails,” Sedleski said. “It’s a regional connection point that brings people, businesses and outdoor users together.”
With that in mind, the club continues to give back to the communities it rides through. Throughout the year, they participate in events like Christmas parades, Canada Day celebrations, Icelandic Festival parades, Touch-A-Truck fundraisers and volunteer work at Agape Soup Kitchen.
“These events allow us to connect with the public, promote safe riding and show that off-roaders are a positive force in the community,” Sedleski said.
One of the club’s most exciting new additions is the Winter Festival Obstacle Course Challenge on Lake Winnipeg.
“This event has quickly become a highlight of the season — combining skill, fun and winter riding in a unique setting,” Sedleski said. “It showcases both rider ability and the versatility of off-road machines, even in extreme conditions.”
Another major milestone for the club’s growth is its ability to maintain the 95-kilometre trail system.
“Last year presented challenges, including a fire ban that delayed our work until September. Despite this, our dedicated volunteers worked tirelessly through the fall — continuing right into November — to improve and maintain the trail system,” he said.
“This marked our first year working on a multi-use trail system, focusing on trail maintenance, development and responsible land use.”
Entering this multi-use development, Sedleski said they had concerns about how local residents might respond.
“Instead, we were met with overwhelming support and appreciation. Communities along our trail systems were impressed with the work being done, recognizing the value of responsible trail development and stewardship,” he said.
“This positive feedback has strengthened our relationships and reinforced our direction moving forward.”
Now the Interlake Offroad Club hosts four safety and etiquette orientation meetings across different communities.
“These sessions have received a very positive response, helping educate riders on trail safety, respect for other users and responsible riding practices,” he said.
“A great example of our inclusive approach — one of our members doesn’t even own an ATV but owns a horse and still participates. That speaks volumes about our commitment to true multi-use trail cooperation.”
Looking ahead, Sedleski said the Interlake Offroad Club wants to continue to grow — not just in numbers but also in impact.
“From organizing rides and events to maintaining trails and building community relationships, the club is evolving into a leader in trail stewardship, community engagement and multi-use cooperation,” Sedleski said.
“What began as a few riders hitting the trails has become a thriving organization making a real difference. The trails are better. The communities are connected. And the ride is just getting started.”
