Horseback Riding in the Canadian Rockies

One of Canada's greatest features is the vast geography that is offered. The Canadian Rockies, a central feature of Alberta and British Columbia, are of particular interest for outdoor enthusiasts during every season. In the summer, the climate and terrain in the Rockies is ideal for trail riding and pack trips: rugged yet pristine, the mountainous peaks found in the Canadian Rockies offer a harmonious blend of adventure and tranquility. At every turn along the wooded horseback trails and paths there are picturesque mountain streams and lakes, alpine meadows filled with wildflowers and other scenery that will leave even the most seasoned world traveller feeling breathless.

Opportunities for wildlife sightings in the Canadian Rockies are also abundant, even on horseback. Mountain wildlife such as deer, elk, moose, bighorn sheep and mountain goats are frequently spotted along the highways and countryside. Grizzly bears and other such creatures are sighted less often; however, it is important to be cautious and heed the advice of local wildlife officials, as well as your horseback riding guide.

HORSEBACK RIDING SEASON

The horseback riding season in the Canadian Rockies typically extends from May to October, although the weather has the power to dictate the length and boundaries of the season more specifically, making it either longer or shorter.

In the summer the weather in the Canadian Rockies is usually sunny and comfortably warm. There is always a chance of rain in the high mountain terrain, like all mountain regions, and when it rains the temperature can drop making for a slight chill in the air.

Winter activities such as sleigh rides, despite the snow and low temperatures, are offered by many outfits in the area. Inquire locally for further information.

TRAIL RIDES

Horseback riding in the Canadian Rockies does not require a great deal of previous experience or highly established skill - even beginning riders can enjoy a day of sightseeing in the Rockies on horseback with relative ease. Regardless of which outfit is chosen to guide each trail ride, every rider should be carefully matched to a horse that suits the rider's size (both height and weight) and skill level. Most trail riding companies offer a variety of choices in terms of both the length of the trail ride, and the route or path taken.

Trail rides, which are defined as a horseback riding adventure that lasts no longer than one full day, usually range in length from one hour to a full day. Most companies feature one hour, two hour, half day and full day trips. Many half-day trail rides will include a hearty lunch in the cost of the trail ride or make one available for an additional fee. Often the lunch will be home-cooked western cuisine such as barbequed steak, beans, potatoes and other side dishes, along with freshly baked apple pie or similar desserts. Some companies also feature a breakfast ride, with a full western-style breakfast served at a site along the trail. Full-day trail rides will usually include a trail lunch, which is packed along in the saddlebags.

Many companies also offer a combination option of horseback riding and whitewater rafting, often called "Ride n' Raft" trips. These trips include a half-day of horseback riding (usually in the morning), a full lunch and an afternoon of adventure whitewater rafting on the rapids of a nearby mountain river.

PACK TRIPS

Ideal for avid adventurers seeking an authentic western experience, pack trips present a different experience of the Canadian Rockies than that gained from a trail ride or other activity. They are a great way to spend more time exploring all that the Rocky Mountains and the backcountry have to offer.

A pack trip is more intensive and lasts longer than one day, generally ranging in length from two days to two weeks. Each day includes a full day of riding with a trail lunch that is enjoyed along the day's route. At the end of each day horses and riders will rest at the camp and another hearty meal will be enjoyed.

There are two main choices in accommodation type, depending on which company and experience is chosen. Many pack trips involve pitching a tent at a site along the backcountry route, while others offer somewhat more luxurious accommodations in backcountry cabins or lodges. After an evening of relaxing that often includes storytelling and singing around a crackling fire, and a good night's rest, riders and horses are ready to go again first thing in the morning. Each morning during the trip also includes a full breakfast before heading back onto the trails.

LOCATIONS

Locations for horseback riding in the Canadian Rockies abound. In the Alberta Rockies major areas such as Kananaskis Country, Banff National Park, Jasper National Park and Waterton Lakes National Park each have several horseback riding outfits that offer a variety of opportunities. In particular, the main cities and towns in this area that offer horseback riding adventures are Banff, Canmore, Jasper and Lake Louise. Bragg Creek, located near Calgary, offers trail rides in the Kananaskis area. In the British Columbia Rockies, Kootenay National Park and Yoho National Park include several towns that have horseback riding outfits: Field, Golden, Radium Hot Springs, Fairmont Hot Springs, Kimberley and Cranbrook.

In addition to these locations in the Rockies, many horseback riding opportunities can be found throughout Alberta's Heartland, "Cowboy Country," in Sundre, Water Valley, Rocky Mountain House and Caroline.

WHAT TO WEAR AND BRING

Trail Rides

It is always best to be prepared when participating in any outdoor adventure. Day trips are generally simple to prepare for because they do not last for an extended period of time. Jeans are recommended for wear over shorts when horseback riding. They tend to be more comfortable and also help to avoid any kind of leg abrasion from rubbing against the horse's saddle. Heeled riding shoes or cowboy boots are also recommended, however for trail rides running or hiking shoes are usually fine. As with any outdoor recreation, it is always wise to bring along sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. In the case of inclement weather, it is nice to have a sweater and a windbreaker or waterproof jacket. Insect repellent is also a wise idea for any activity in the mountains.

Pack Trips

Preparing for pack trips is obviously more intensive than preparing for trail rides; however, most companies will include the larger items in the cost of each trip. Personal items, including those mentioned for trail rides, are necessary and should also include toiletries, extra clothing, rain gear, warm nightwear (the night time air in the mountains tends to be cool, no matter what the daytime temperature is) and sleeping gear including a sleeping bag, air mattress and pillow.

Keep in mind when packing your personal items to pack as "light" as possible because the horses will be carrying all luggage in the saddle bags. Many companies will limit the weight of individual luggage. Some items are also available for rent. It is wise to inquire with each individual company regarding weight restrictions for luggage and availability of rental items.

Whether taking a one-hour trail ride or a two-week pack trip, one item any that traveller will not want to forget is a camera with extra film or a video camera. There are so many remarkable sights - both scenery and wildlife - in Canada's Rocky Mountains that vacationers will want to capture on film.

COST

The cost of each trail ride varies with each company. As expected, the length of the trip and what is included also affects the price. Most one-hour trail rides begin at approximately $30 CDN, a half-day trip averages around $70 CDN and a full day ranges between $110 and $150 CDN. Prices also vary as meals are added on: many outfits offer rides that will include a light snack, a full breakfast, lunch or cookout supper. It is difficult to give price ranges for pack trips; however, depending on the company, what is included, and the length of the trip the average cost is $200 CDN per person, per day.
from: www.canadianrockies.com