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Equestrian tours in Canada, Alberta
Banff  - Backcountry Lodge Ride


Itinerary for Banff - Backcountry Lodge Ride




6-day Sample Itinerary - subject to changes

Day 1: Backcountry ride to Sundance Lodge
Riders meet at 9:30 a.m. at Warner Stables. Make your way to our backcountry check in area in the large barn. For those with a vehicle, free parking is available at the stables for the duration of the trip. Here you will meet your fellow riders and your guides for your trip. Slickers and saddlebags will be handed out if required and you will have time to organize your gear and ask any questions you may have.
Your guides will then introduce you to your horse, which has been specifically picked for you. Once you are comfortable you will mount up for the 10-mile ride to Sundance Lodge via the glacier-fed waters of the Bow River, Healy and Brewster Creeks. Half-way to the lodge, you will stop and enjoy a hot lunch by the Bow River. After lunch, we will continue along the trail into Sundance Lodge. You will saunter into Sundance Lodge at around 4:30pm, where you will be greeted by the friendly lodge host and shown to your room where you can freshen up with a warm shower and settle in. Your lodge host will cater to your every need and make you feel welcome at the lodge, like you are a guest in their home. This is no simple, basic lodge – you will be pampered in backcountry luxury, sleeping in a comfortable bed and dining on gourmet cuisine whipped up by your talented host in the professional kitchen. You will be surrounded by the beautiful backcountry of Banff, yet you will still enjoy the luxuries of life.
Riding approx. 10 miles (5-6 hours)
Meals included: Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Sundance lodge


Day 2: Ride the Erling Strom Trail to Halfway Lodge
The adventure continues as you journey 9 miles southward to Halfway Lodge. The rugged peaks of the Sundance Range loom over the eastern horizon as you follow the winding historic Erling Strom Trail. You will be following in the footsteps that the early explorers of the Canadian Rockies took nearly a century ago. We will stop along the way for a picnic in the fresh air of an open mountain meadow. Tonight we will stay at Halfway Lodge. Located at the midway point between Banff and Assiniboine Mountain where weary riders have been stopping to rest since the 1920s. As you approach you will notice the trees start to thin out and the mountains peeking up above the tree line all around you. It is tucked into a postcard-perfect setting, with a striking cauldron of mountains all around it. This lodge was constructed by Erling Strom in the 1920s as a stopover spot for the guests he lead on trips from Banff to Mount Assiniboine. With propane lanterns and candles providing lighting and a woodstove providing warmth, it has not changed much in the last 80 years.
Riding approx. 9 miles (5-6 hours)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Halfway lodge


Day 3: Climb Allenby Pass on horseback to 8,100 feet
After a hearty breakfast you can leave your belongings at the lodge and set off on another adventure. Today you will make the thrilling climb up Allenby Pass on horseback, an elevation of 8,100 feet. For many this is the highlight of the trip, as you will get a breathtaking view of the jagged rock formations, the enormous amphitheater of mountains stretching out all around you. It is mind-boggling to imagine that Allenby Pass was a seafloor millions of years ago. If you look closely, you can still spot fossils of sea creatures visible among the rocks. At the end of the day, you will return to your familiar room at Halfway Lodge, where you already feel comfortable and at home. As the sun sets behind the mountains, you can sit back and relax, drink wine and share stories and photos with your fellow adventurers.
Riding approx. 3-5 miles depending on time of year and trail conditions (4-6 hours)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Halfway lodge


Day 4: Rest time to enjoy the backcountry
Today is a rest day at the Lodge. An optional hike to a shimmering glacial fed lake at the end of the valley, where you can enjoy views of the valley below, can be organized. However, if you would rather relax, there is no pressure. This lodge is a lovely place to find some quiet time, far away from the pinging of notifications and the pressure of your endless to-do list. It is a chance to relax, perhaps by sitting on the deck while getting lost in the pages of a good book.  You may even take some time to groom your horse, who has no doubt become your best friend by this point.
No riding
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Halfway lodge


Day 5: Follow Brewster Creek to Sundance Lodge
Say goodbye to the lovely staff at Halfway Lodge. It is time to hit the winding trail along Brewster Creek back to Sundance Lodge. Be warned: you will not want to leave Halfway Lodge once you have experienced this gorgeous retreat in the Rockies. Your guide will lead you through the backcountry on a scenic and exciting trail, crisscrossing the valley in the historic footsteps of the early pioneers and stopping for lunch along the way. You will arrive back at Sundance Lodge again, a luxurious retreat you will have fallen deeply in love with. Pamper yourself after your ride with a warm shower and a glass of wine, then enjoy another delicious meal prepared by your professional chef lodge host.
Riding approx. 9 miles (5-6 hours)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Sundance lodge


Day 6: Return to Warner Stables
It is your last morning at Sundance Lodge, which by now will feel like home due to the warm hospitality of your host. Wake up in your comfortable bed one last time, gather around for a delicious breakfast and wave goodbye as you begin the journey back to Banff. It is your final day on the trail – a gentle 9 mile ride from Sundance back to Warner Stables. Your guide will lead you through the backcountry along winding river trails and through the thick pine forests, with the jagged peaks of the Rockies always standing proudly on the horizon. You will stop along the banks of Healy Creek for a lunch of fresh sandwiches, baked goods and fruit. You will return at approximately 4:30 pm, with plenty of great tales from the backcountry to tell your family and friends.
Riding approx. 10 miles (5-6 hours)
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch




4-day Sample Itinerary - subject to changes

Day 1: Backcountry ride to Sundance Lodge
We will begin our journey at 9:30am at the stables at the backcountry check-in area of the large barn (please do not arrive any earlier than 9:30am). There is plenty of free parking at the stables and you can park your vehicle here for free during the trip. We will hand out your slickers and saddlebags and introduce you to the horse that we has specifically picked just for you. Things happen on “Western Time” here so we may not leave right on the dot and you will have time to get to know your horse and ask any questions.
Saddled up and ready to ride, we will hit the trail for the 10-mile journey to Sundance Lodge. On this backcountry adventure, we will take you along a route that the early explorers of the Canadian Rockies blazed nearly a century ago. We will follow the trail alongside the rushing glacier-fed waters of the Bow River, Healy Creek and Brewster Creek. Along the way, we will stop for a simple, hearty cowboy-style hot lunch on the banks of the river.
We will arrive at Sundance Lodge late afternoon, where your lodge host will greet you. Sundance is the ideal place for those who want to marvel at the beauty of the Banff backcountry, while still being swaddled in comfort. Settle into your room and freshen up from your day on the trail, then gather around the table for a gourmet meal prepared by your talented host. By the end of this trip, you will have plenty of new friends from around the world.
Riding approx. 10 miles (5-6 hours)
Meals included: Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Sundance lodge


Day 2: Ride the Erling Strom Trail to Halfway Lodge
The adventure continues as you journey 9 miles southward to Halfway Lodge. The rugged peaks of the Sundance Range loom over the eastern horizon as you follow the winding historic Erling Strom Trail. You will be following in the footsteps that the early explorers of the Canadian Rockies took nearly a century ago. We will stop along the way for a picnic in the fresh air of an open mountain meadow. Tonight we will stay at Halfway Lodge, located at the midway point between Banff and Assiniboine Mountain where weary riders have been stopping to rest since the 1920s. As you approach you will notice the trees start to thin out and the mountains peeking up above the tree line all around you. It is tucked into a postcard-perfect setting, with a striking cauldron of mountains all around it.
This lodge was constructed by Erling Strom in the 1920s as a stopover spot for the guests he lead on trips from Banff to Mount Assiniboine. With propane lanterns and candles providing lighting and a woodstove providing warmth, it has not changed much in the last 80 years.
Riding approx. 9 miles (5-6 hours including lunch time)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Halfway lodge


Day 3: Follow Brewster Creek back to Sundance Lodge
Today you will leave your peaceful haven at Halfway Lodge and take the meandering trail along Brewster Creek back to Sundance Lodge. You will spend another night here, relaxing in pure backcountry comfort. Be warned: you will not want to leave Halfway Lodge once you have experienced this gorgeous retreat in the Rockies.
After you wake up in comfort and enjoy a hearty breakfast at Halfway Lodge, you will hit the trail. Your guide will lead you through the backcountry on a scenic and exciting trail, crisscrossing the valley in the historic footsteps of the early pioneers and stopping for lunch along the way. You will arrive back at Sundance Lodge again, a luxurious retreat you will have fallen deeply in love with. Pamper yourself after your ride with a warm shower and a glass of wine, and then enjoy another delicious meal prepared by your talented chef lodge host.
Riding approx. 9 miles (5-6 hours including lunch time)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Sundance lodge


Day 4: Return to Warner Stables
It is your last morning at Sundance Lodge, which by now will feel like home due to the warm hospitality of your host. Wake up wrapped in your warm down duvet one last time, gather around for a delicious breakfast and wave goodbye as you begin the journey back to Banff. Breathe the crisp, pine-scented air as you depart for one more day on the trail with your fellow riders – whom you have no doubt become good friends with by now.  Your guide will lead you through the backcountry along winding river trails and through the thick pine forests, with the jagged peaks of the Rockies always standing proudly on the horizon. You will stop along the banks of Healy Creek for a lunch of fresh sandwiches, baked goods and fruit. You will take the gentle 9-mile ride from Sundance back to Warner Stables, arriving at around 4:30pm. You may be leaving the backcountry, but the memories you have made will stay with you for a long time.
Riding approx. 9 miles (5-6 hours)
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch

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Banff - Backcountry Lodge Ride
Tour Code: RTAB17
6 days / 5 nights
Dates : June to Sept

Trip Rating :
Difficulty : Riding Level
Riding Level Explained
ABeginner
Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter.
BNovice
Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting trots, and short canters.
CIntermediate
Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces (including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly.
D Strong Intermediate
Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day.
EAdvanced
All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country.
Lodging: Standard
Lodging Level Explained
   
= Facilities in lodges, estancias, haciendas, resorts, etc.
   
Basic lodging - some with shared bathroom facilities, usually no AC or room service.
Regular standard room - usually with private bath.
 Accommodations with superior comforts.
   
 = Trips with nights in tent camps. Sometimes the first and last night are in hotels.
   
Basic tent camping - everyone helps out with camp chores.
Regular standard with some camp amenities and camp cook.
Camping facilities with superior comforts like camp shower, bathroom facility..
   
 = Trips that combine nights in hotels and camping.
   
Basic accommodation and basic camping facilities can be expected.
Regular standard with some nicer amenities.
Only assigned to hotel and camping facilities with superior comforts.

Online Reservation

Check here for details and availability
Season Tour Dates  Min / MaxReserve
A 2024 06/20 - 06/25 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 06/23 - 06/28 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
B 2024 06/26 - 06/29 4d / 3n 4 day lodge ride (4 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 06/27 - 07/02 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 06/30 - 07/05 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
B 2024 07/03 - 07/06 4d / 3n 4 day lodge ride (4 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 07/04 - 07/09 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 07/07 - 07/12 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
B 2024 07/10 - 07/13 4d / 3n 4 day lodge ride (4 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 07/11 - 07/16 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 07/14 - 07/19 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
B 2024 07/17 - 07/20 4d / 3n 4 day lodge ride (4 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 07/18 - 07/23 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 07/21 - 07/26 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
B 2024 07/24 - 07/27 4d / 3n 4 day lodge ride (4 riding d... 2 /14 Reserve
A 2024 07/25 - 07/30 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 07/28 - 08/02 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
B 2024 07/31 - 08/03 4d / 3n 4 day lodge ride (4 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 08/01 - 08/06 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 08/04 - 08/09 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
B 2024 08/07 - 08/10 4d / 3n 4 day lodge ride (4 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 08/08 - 08/13 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 08/11 - 08/16 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
B 2024 08/14 - 08/17 4d / 3n 4 day lodge ride (4 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 08/15 - 08/20 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 08/18 - 08/23 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
B 2024 08/21 - 08/24 4d / 3n 4 day lodge ride (4 riding d... 2 /14 Reserve
A 2024 08/22 - 08/27 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 08/25 - 08/30 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
B 2024 08/28 - 08/31 4d / 3n 4 day lodge ride (4 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 08/29 - 09/03 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 09/01 - 09/06 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
B 2024 09/04 - 09/07 4d / 3n 4 day lodge ride (4 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 09/05 - 09/10 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 09/08 - 09/13 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
B 2024 09/11 - 09/14 4d / 3n 4 day lodge ride (4 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
A 2024 09/12 - 09/17 6d / 5n 6 day lodge ride (5 riding d... 2 /14 Sold Out
Introduction
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Tack: Western
Horses: Quarter Horses, Appaloosa's, Paints, a...
Pace: Slow, 4-6 hrs per day. All of our ride...
Walk,
Airport: Calgary International Airport (YYC)
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