High Plains Drifter Ride

Introduction
Alberta Canada

Ride 120 miles across the open windswept plains of Southern Alberta, from the Sweetgrass Hills on the Montana border to the Cypress Hills in Saskatchewan. Explore the magical coulees and badlands of the Milk River, and ride along routes that were once used by Indians, whiskey traders, fugitive outlaws, and the North-West Mounted Police. Visit historic Writing-On-Stone, Fort Walsh and other places along the Redcoat Trail. Much of this country has not changed since the time of the buffalo.

It is excellent riding country, with unlimited opportunity for experienced riders to move at a faster pace.

This is not are not a big "corporate" ranch or pack outfitter. Indeed "big" is incompatible with our desire to leave as small as possible a footprint on the wilderness. We don't offer opulent luxury with simulated but tightly scripted "adventure". We don't stage mock gun-fights or hold-ups for the amusement of "tourists". This is a genuine, real-life adventure, breathtaking scenery, camaraderie of the trail, excellent camp-fire cooked food and the opportunity to learn as much as you can about horses, riding and living with nature.

Accomodation
2 nights in local B&B, 1 night hotel in Manyberries, 7 nights in camp (wall tents)
We will either sleep in large tents (up to 7 per tent), or leantos to enjoy the night sky whenever practical. Sometimes we are treated to a display of the Northern lights by doing so. If privacy is a major concern for you it is best tell us early so we can plan accordingly. We have found that most people are happy to sleep in close proximity to each other when in the wilds.

Riding

This vacation is for riders with strong riding experience and a keen sense of adventures.
Four to seven hours per day will be spent on trail, though people wishing to spend a day or two doing other activities such as hiking or relaxing will have that option. The horses have been chosen for their endurance, spirit, and sure-footedness in the mountains. Since the pack train uses different trails we will often canter where the trail is suitable.
The guests are expected to help in tending to the horses and other camp duties. Most horses will be fitted with western style saddles but those with a distinct preference for English riding may be accommodated. This trip is designed for keen riders who are up to the challenge.

There are some trails we use where it is necessary to hike over rocky terrain, either to avoid undue risk or to enjoy a vista that cannot be ridden to. For most people this is a refreshing change that allows them to stretch their legs. We recommend that you bring or wear comfortable footwear that you can hike for a kilometer or two in.

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival Day. Pick up in Calgary in the afternoon. The shuttle van will bring you to the ranch, where you will meet the guides and have the opportunity to get acquainted. We can answer any last minute questions you might have at that occasion. After dinner we'll take you to your B & B. A kit bag, sleeping bag and mat will be provided. Transfer to B&B

Day 2 We load the horses in the trailers and head down to Writing-On-Stone Provincial Park, just north of the Montana border. There we camp the night.

Day 3 Ride approx 40 km from Writing-On-Stone to Aden Bridge along the Milk River valley

Day 4 Continue riding east across rolling grassland along the Milk River, to our camp on the beautiful Pinhorn Range.

Day 5 We explore the badlands and windswept prairie of the Pinhorn, or take the day to relax around camp and swim in the Milk River

Day 6 We ride 50 km to the tiny village of Manyberries, making good time by long canters and trots. There we stay in relative comfort in an authentic saloon.

Day 7 A short ride of only 20 kms leads us to an upland plateau and the stunning blue waters of the Bare Creek Reservoir, where we camp in splendid isolation

Day 8 We graduallly gain altitude as we approach the Cypress Hills, an upland oasis in the arid prairie of Southern Alberta

Day 9 We ride into the forests of the Cypress Hills, enjoying the unique scenery and learning of the tremendous historical significance of this upland plateau.

If conditions are right, we will ride to the National Historical Site of Fort Walsh, on the Saskatchewan side of the border.

Day 10 We load the horses in the trailers and head home, where we enjoy a hearty farewell dinner and night in the B&B.

Day 11 Departure Day. After breakfast we take you back to Calgary

While we have a route planned at the outset of every trip, changes are sometimes forced upon us by weather, bear activity or other environmental hazards. The guides reserve the option of changing the day's activity from the published schedule based on any concern they have for the safety of the party. In these cases, various alternatives will normally be presented to the group and a decision made in consultation with them.

Rates and Dates for High Plains Drifter Ride

Dates Note:

Other Info
Meeting: Calgary
Airport: Calgary
Transfer: Calgary Airport 4 PM

Climate: Temperatures will range widely and can not be predicted -- please come prepared.

On day 1 you will receive a kit bag with  sleeping bag and mat.