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For years visitors from all over the world have explored the Canadian Rockies back country on horseback. They have come in search of remote valleys and alpine lakes, and looked forward to settling into authentic western camps at the end of the day.
For most people, one day in the mountains is just not enough. Multi-day pack trips are the answer for those who want to get into the real back-country, relax and recharge their batteries in the splendour of nature, learn more about riding, and enjoy the companionship of horses to an extent not possible on shorter treks.
The outfitters that Home On The Range Adventure Tours has selected to work with to provide wilderness horse trips encourage active participation of their guests, including the care of the horses and general camp duties, creating an authentic atmosphere that is rewarding and fulfilling. They trive to present an authentic Canadian Rockies horseback adventure.
These outfitters offer western horseback adventures and trail rides from 2 days to 2 weeks in the Canadian Rockies. Join them as they explore rugged and remote trails where people are rarely seen, and experience all the majesty of nature as the first explorers of this magnificent wilderness did before you.
These are not large corporate ranch operations that we work with. Each outfitter prides themselves on leaving as small a footprint as possible on the wilderness areas they explore. There will definitely be less luxury on your Rocky Mountain pack trip than you will find at your local spa. However, in exchange we offer 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.
Come experience the Canadian Rocky Mountains as only a cowboy can see them.
Trip prices may vary depending on time of year, accommodations, amenities, and location.
Each trip includes all equipment & supplies, accommodation, guide, meals and horse.
Pack Trips ranging from 2 Days to 2 Weeks are available on request.
Love the Wild West, Come Join Us for a Great Western Experience
For folks who are looking to take a little bit of home into the back-country, Sundance and Halfway Lodges provide just the right combination. Evenings are spent in a cozy lodge. We call that roughing it the civilized way!
Completed in 1991, Sundance Lodge now sits on the original site of the horse corral for Ten-Mile cabin, built by Canadian Pacific Railway back in the 1920's. Sundance Lodge sits alongside a gentle curve on Brewster Creek, with the Sundance mountain range as a backdrop. Built entirely with fir logs, the lodge has 10 sleeping rooms, a large country kitchen, and a cozy living room area where you can curl up by the woodstove and lose yourself in a good book. And although it is a remote backcountry lodge, we decided to add what we felt was an important comfort from home - hot showers! (Please note that, for environmental reasons, showers are restricted to one per stay.)
Surrounded by the beauty of towering peaks, Halfway Lodge has been a welcome haven for over 75 years. Rich in tradition, this cabin was used back in the late 1920's as a stopover for guests traveling from Banff to Mount Assiniboine. Halfway has remained pretty much as originally built, with the exception of a second story added in 1967 when a bear made an appearance through an unexpected entrance - the roof!
Thanks to the bear, Halfway now sleeps a maximum of fourteen guests. The lifestyle at this rustic backcountry cabin remains much the same as it was 75 years ago - simple. Propane lanterns and candles provide the lighting, and a woodstove keeps the water hot and the cabin warm and cozy.
Note: At Sundance Lodge, private sleeping arrangements are possible depending upon trip size, but are not guaranteed. Sundance has 10 sleeping rooms with 3 beds in each room, rooms are designated on a choose your own basis once at the lodges. Halfway is equipped with single beds only and sleeps 14 guests in 4 rooms.
Tours depart early May to mid October.Riders meet at our office at 9:30 a.m. and are transported by van to Martin Stables. There they are met by their guides and horses and mount up for the ten mile ride to Banff Sundance Lodge via the glacier-fed waters of the Bow River, Healy and Brewster Creeks. For those with a vehicle, free parking is available at Martin stables for the duration of the trip. Once you check-in, directions will be available from our office.
The adventure continues southward with a ride up to Halfway Lodge. The trail winds along the historic Strom pack trail with the rugged Sundance Range dominating the eastern horizon.
After a good night's rest at Halfway Lodge and a hearty breakfast, it's down to the corral to mount up for the day's ride. Trips may take riders to the headwaters of Brewster Creek or to the breathtaking views enjoyed at the top of Allenby Pass, at an elevation of 8,100 ft.
After a warm good-bye to the cook and Halfway, the winding trail leads back along the Brewster creek to Sundance Lodge. This will be home for the next 2 nights.
The day begins with a hot, ranch-style breakfast; fuel for the ride up Fatigue Creek. At midday, both horse and rider enjoy a restful break in the Fatigue Valley, while the lunch mule is unpacked and coffee is brewed. The lofty heights of the Continental Divide provide spectacular vistas of both Alberta and British Columbia.
The gang gets together for one last day on the trail, a "soft" ten-mile ride from Sundance to Martin Stables, arriving at approximately 4:30 p.m. The adventure has come to a close, but the magic of your holiday will linger on to be relived and shared.
| 6-Day Lodge trips - Wednesday Departures | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1R | June 23-June 28 | $1456.00 |
| 2R | June 30-July 5 | $1651.00 |
| 3R | July 7-12 | $1651.00 |
| 4R | July 14-19 | $1651.00 |
| 5R | July 21-26 | $1651.00 |
| 6R | July 28-August 2 | $1651.00 |
| 7R | August 4-9 | $1651.00 |
| 8R | August 11-16 | $1651.00 |
| 9R | August 18-23 | $1651.00 |
| 10R | August 25-30 Mountain Photography Trip | $1751.00 |
| 11R | September 1-6 | $1456.00 |
| 12R | September 8-13 | $1456.00 |
| 13R | September 15-20 | $1456.00 |
The 5 day trip departs on a Monday and spends the first night at Sundance Lodge, the second and third nights at Halfway Lodge and returns to Sundance for the final evening.
| 5-Day Lodge trips - Monday Departures | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1H | June 28-July 2 | $1225.00 |
| 2H | July 5-9 | $1388.00 |
| 3H | July 12-16 | $1388.00 |
| 4H | July 19-23 | $1388.00 |
| 5H | July 26-30 | $1388.00 |
| 6H | August 2-6 | $1388.00 |
| *7H | August 9-13 | $1388.00 |
| 8H | August 16-20 | $1388.00 |
| 9H | August 23-27 | $1388.00 |
| 10H | August 30 - September 3 | $1225.00 |
| 11H | September 6-10 | $1225.00 |
| 12H | September 13-17 | $1225.00 |
| 13H | September 20-24 | $1225.00 |
Contact our knowledgeable staff today to discuss making your western experience holiday a reality.
The 4 day ride departs on Sunday and spends the first night at Sundance, the second night at Halfway and returns to Sundance for the final evening.
| 4-Day Lodge trips - Sunday Departures | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1G | June 27-30 | $990.00 |
| 2G | July 4-7 | $1118.00 |
| 3G | July 11-14 | $1118.00 |
| 4G | July 18-21 | $1118.00 |
| 5G | July 25-28 | $1118.00 |
| 6G | August 1-4 | $1118.00 |
| 7G | August 8-11 | $1118.00 |
| 8G | August 15-18 | $1118.00 |
| 9G | August 22-25 | $1118.00 |
| 10G | August 29-September 1 | $1118.00 |
| 11G | September 5-8 | $990.00 |
| 12G | September 12-15 | $990.00 |
| 13G | September 19-22 | $990.00 |
The 3 day ride departs every Monday and Thursday in May, June, September and October. In July and August the 3-day departs on Thursdays only. This trip spends 2 nights at Sundance lodge and enjoys a valley ride on the second day along the Brewster Creek.
| 3-Day Lodge trips - Monday Departures | ||
|---|---|---|
| Unscheduled departures may be booked for any day. July/August departures are $845/person. | ||
| 1S | May 17-19 | $749.00 |
| 3S | May 24-27 | $749.00 |
| 5S | May 31-June 2 | $749.00 |
| 7S | June 7-9 | $749.00 |
| 9S | June 14-16 | $749.00 |
| 11S | June 21-23 | $749.00 |
| 13S | June 28-30 | $749.00 |
| 24S | September 6-8 | $749.00 |
| 26S | September 13-15 | $749.00 |
| 28S | September 20-22 | $749.00 |
| 30S | September 27-29 | $749.00 |
| 32S | October 4-6 | $749.00 |
| 34S | October 11-13 | $749.00 |
| 3-Day Lodge trips - Thursday Departures | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2S | May 20-22 | $749.00 |
| 4S | May 27-29 | $749.00 |
| 6S | June 3-5 | $749.00 |
| 8S | June 10-12 | $749.00 |
| 10S | June 17-19 | $749.00 |
| 12S | June 24-26 | $749.00 |
| 14S | July 1-3 | $845.00 |
| 15S | July 8-10 | $845.00 |
| 16S | July 15-17 | $845.00 |
| 17S | July 22-24 | $845.00 |
| 18S | July 29-31 | $845.00 |
| 19S | August 5-7 | $845.00 |
| 20S | August 12-14 | $845.00 |
| 21S | August 19-21 | $845.00 |
| 22S | August 26-28 | $845.00 |
| 23S | September 2-4 | $749.00 |
| 25S | September 9-11 | $749.00 |
| 27S | September 16-18 | $749.00 |
| 29S | September 23-25 | $749.00 |
| 31S | September 30-October 2 | $749.00 |
| 33S | October 7-9 | $749.00 |
The 2 day rides depart on Saturdays from May to October. This trip spends overnight at Sundance Lodge.
| 2-Day Lodge trips - Saturday Departures | ||
|---|---|---|
| Unscheduled departures may be booked for any day. Regular rates apply. | ||
| 1W | May 15-16 | $498.00 |
| 2W | May 22-23 | $498.00 |
| 3W | May 29-30 | $498.00 |
| 4W | June 5-6 | $498.00 |
| 5W | June 12-13 | $498.00 |
| 6W | June 19-20 | $498.00 |
| 7W | June 26-27 | $498.00 |
| 8W | July 3-4 | $498.00 |
| 9W | July 10-11 | $563.00 |
| 10W | July 17-18 | $563.00 |
| 11W | July 24-25 | $563.00 |
| 12W | July 31-August 1 | $563.00 |
| 13W | August 7-8 | $563.00 |
| 14W | August 14-15 | $563.00 |
| 15W | August 21-22 | $563.00 |
| 16W | August 28-29 | $563.00 |
| 17W | September 4-5 | $498.00 |
| 18W | September 11-12 | $498.00 |
| 19W | September 18-19 | $498.00 |
| 20W | September 25-26 | $498.00 |
| 21W | October 2-3 | $498.00 |
| 22W | October 9-10 | $498.00 |
Contact our knowledgeable staff today to discuss making your western experience holiday a reality.
These trips explore some of Banff National Park's most spectacular backcountry. Each of the 3 camps on the circuit offer their own particular charms. Stoney Creek Camp sits at the junction of Stoney Creek and the Cascade River, and offers the rugged, sculptured peaks of the Palliser Range as a backdrop. Flints Park Camp is nestled into the base of massive Flints Peak. Open vistas and starry nights highlight this beautiful camp. The last camp is aptly called Mystic, with its stands of big, old pine and spruce trees covered with hanging moss, and open, grassy slides; this camp is set in a truly mystical location.
All the camps are of a similar set up. Simple luxuries abound: wash stands and hot water, a fire pit for evening socializing, tales and song, a large kitchen tent where meals are cooked and served, plenty of "A" frame canvas tents which make for cozy accommodations, and rustic rail corrals for the horses. Rivers flow nearby for the fishermen or brave swimmers.
Each "A" frame tent has a wood floor and campers sleep in a sleeping bag on a foam - the bag and foam can be rented for CAN$3 to $5/day.
The 4 day trip departs Mondays and stays one night in Stoney Creek, Flints Park and Mystic camps. The 5 day trip departs Saturdays and stays one night in Stoney Creek camp, two nights in Flints Park camp and one night in Mystic camp. The 6 day trip departs on Wednesdays, stays two nights in Stoney Creek, two nights in Flints Park and one night in Mystic.
The riders meet at our office at 8:30 a.m. and are transported by van to the trailhead corral at Mount Norquay. There they are met by their guides and horses, and mount up for the eleven mile ride over Elk Lake Summit between Brewster Mountain and Cascade Mountain, and down into Stoney Creek Camp.
A ride is taken toward the headwaters of Stoney Creek, returning to camp for the night. This area is a favorite haunt of Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, who are often grazing in the high eadows, providing ample opportunity for pictures.
The riders roll up their duffel, mount up, and ride the ten miles to Flint's Park Camp. This camp, located in the center of open, grassy ridges topped with high peaks, has become a favorite of many of our riders. Wildlife is commonly seen and photographed in this area.
A day ride is conducted from camp to Block Mountain, or perhaps to Cuthead Viewpoint - just two of the many points of interest accessible from Flint's Park. This area has much to offer the rider, photographer, hiker and fisherman alike.
Once again the riders roll up their duffel in preparation for the ride to the Mystic Valley Camp. At this time the guests have the opportunity to observe the historic art of horse packing, using the famous diamond hitch. When everything is securely in place, the riders mount up and ride into Mystic Valley for the final night. It is traditional with our guides to have a real western dinner for the last night. By this time everyone has become friends, and all are ready for a wind-up get-together.
Unfortunately, every trip has a last day, but what better way to end the trip than with the scenic nine mile ride from Mystic Valley to the Mount Norquay Corral. The "Full Circle" has been completed and the riders return to Banff at approximately 5:00 p.m.
| 6-Day Tent trips - Wednesday Departures | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1B | June 23-28 | $1293.00 |
| 2B | June 30-July 5 | $1496.00 |
| 3B | July 7-12 | $1496.00 |
| 4B | July 14-19 | $1496.00 |
| 5B | July 21-26 Trail Riders of the Canadian Rockies (TRCR) | $1496.00 |
| 6B | July 28-August 2 (TRCR) | $1496.00 |
| 7B | August 4-9 (TRCR) | $1496.00 |
| *8B | August 11-16 (TRCR) | $1496.00 |
| *9B | August 18-23 | $1596.00 |
| *10B | August 25-30 | $1596.00 |
| *10C | August 28-September 1 (TRCR) | $1596.00 |
| 11B | September 1-6 | $1293.00 |
| 12B | September 8-12 | $1293.00 |
| 13B | September 15-20 | $1293.00 |
The Trail Riders of the Canadian Rockies is a non-profit club of volunteers that has been organizing horseback trail rides in the Canadian Rockies since 1923, most often in Banff National Park. Founded during a snowstorm on Wolverine Pass, the TRCR has been a prominent part of Canadian Rocky Mountain History for over 80 years.
For the 2010 schedule, Holiday on Horseback and the TRCR have incorporated a series of 4, 5, and 6 day rides taking guests to the camps of Stoney Creek, Flints Park and Mystic Valley.
Guests will enjoy the simple luxuries in these tried and true campsites equipped with a large kitchen tent for socializing, wash areas (Flints Park even has a shower!), electric fence to keep curious critters out and spacious sleeping accommodations in A-frame canvas prospector tents.
The atmosphere on these trips is certainly one of camaraderie and laughter. Musicians are often present on the rides and the cowboys regale you with stories, true and embellished, around the evening campfire. A TRCR coordinator will accompany you on there tours and help you out along the way. Your membership with the TRCR also includes a members pin, newsletters and invitations to TRCR events and future trips.
Holiday on Horseback has been outfitting for the TRCR off and on since 1974 and is excited to share their history with you again this summer.
We are proud to announce the addition of a new interpretive photography trip this summer! Join world-renowned photographer Raymond Gehman for a 6-day Wilderness Tenting ride August 19 - 24 and share in his knowledge and experiences gained as a National Geographic photographer.
Raymond's desire is to show you how to envision and then capture a compelling and timeless image true to the National Geographic level of photography. He will share some secrets and hints for getting the most out of your artistic eye and your camera's creative potential. The abundance of spectacular scenery, wildlife, and cowboy lifestyle should provide any enthusiastic artist with incredible landscape, portrait and action photographs.
Raymond Gehman is a long-time contributor to National Geographic Magazine, Books, and Traveler Magazine as well as an expert on photographing in the Canadian Rockies. The addition of a high level photographer to our trip lineup has been in the works for a few years, we are excited to be able to offer the opportunity to ride with Raymond in 2009.
Year 2001 was emphasized as the "Year of the Grizzly". However, due to popular demand, we will continue with this interpretive trip which studies the Grizzly and it's habitat. This summer we will be organizing a six-day horseback trip that will focus on the history, habitat and the future of the grizzly bear. Over the past 100 years of horse travel in the Rockies, we can attest to the compatibility between bears and horseback travel. Whatever the reasons, bears take little notice of horse parties.
Knowledge about the needs of a healthy grizzly population is growing as more and more administrators from a variety of jurisdictions work together to improve habitat for all species, humans included. In co-operation with Parks Canada, Dr. Mike Gibeau, one of Canada's leading authorities on grizzlies and their environment, will accompany you for the entire six days. Mike has worked with bears in National Parks for the past 27 years, first as a Park Warden, and now as a biologist.
You will enjoy a horseback adventure and share in a rare opportunity to spend time in some of Canada's prime grizzly habitat with professional interpretation.
| 5-Day Tent trips - Saturday Departures | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1C | June 26-30 | $1087.00 |
| 2C | July 3-7 | $1257.00 |
| 3C | July 10-14 | $1257.00 |
| 4C | July 17-21 (TRCR) | $1257.00 |
| 5C | July 24-28 | $1257.00 |
| 6C | July 31-August 4 | $1257.00 |
| 7C | August 7-11 Brad Camerson ile Clinic | $1257.00 |
| 8C | August 14-18 | $1257.00 |
| 9C | August 22-26 (TRCR) | $1257.00 |
| *11C | September 4-8 – Paws in the Wilderness | $1187.00 |
| 12C | September 11-15 | $1087.00 |
| 13C | September 18-22 | $1087.00 |
“Saddle up and Ride.” An exciting high country adventure with North America’s leading mule clinician Brad Cameron. Bring your own mule and join Brad for 5 spectacular days of hands on trail training in the Canadian Rockies.
Under Brad’s careful guidance, Participants will learn how to negotiate many different natural obstacles with safety and confidence. Enjoy the camaraderie and fellowship of other mule riders while endless mule stories are told around the campfire at night.
Backcountry meals, comfortable tent camps, and unequaled scenery and all included. This is a unique, one of a kind clinic experience that only Brad Cameron can offer.
Wolves have always been a fascinating part of mountain life as their presence contributes greatly to the ecology of the area while remaining mysterious and elusive towards humans. Melanie Percy, accredited wolf researcher in the Bow Valley will take guests into the world of these amazing animals offering insight into pup production, denning habits, high wolf use areas and general wolf presence in the park. Melanies time spent studying these animals and their interaction with other wildlife has also given her a wide spectrum of knowledge regarding Grizzly & Black bears, Cougars, Elk and other animals in the area.
| 4-Day Tent trips - Monday Departures | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1A | June 28-July 1 | $878.00 |
| 2A | July 5-8 | $1013.00 |
| 3A | July 12-15 (TRCR) | $1013.00 |
| 4A | July 19-22 | $1013.00 |
| 5A | July 26-29 | $1013.00 |
| 6A | August 2-5 | $1013.00 |
| 7A | August 9-12 | $1013.00 |
| 8A | August 16-19 (TRCR) | $1013.00 |
| 9A | August 23-26 | $1013.00 |
| 11A | September 6-9 (TRCR) | $878.00 |
| 12A | September 13-16 | $878.00 |
| 13A | September 20-23 | $878.00 |
The 3 Day Mystic Valley Pack trip is perfect for people who don't have a lot of time, but would still like to enjoy the memorable mountain experience offered by this taste of the back country. Mystic Valley Camp is located 10 miles north of Mt. Norquay, situated on the banks of Forty Mile Creek. Once in camp, guests can relax in the kitchen tent, take a short hike, or try their luck at fishing in the creek.
| 3-Day Mystic Valley Tent trips - Friday Departures | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1M | July 2-4 | $765.00 |
| 2M | July 9-11 | $765.00 |
| 3M | July 16-18 | $765.00 |
| 4M | July 23-25 | $765.00 |
| 5M | July 30- August 1 | $765.00 |
| 6M | August 6-8 | $765.00 |
| 7M | August 13-15 | $765.00 |
| 8M | August 20-22 | $765.00 |
| 9M | August 27-29 | $765.00 |
| 10M | September 3-5 | $663.00 |
| 11M | September 10-12 | $663.00 |
| 12M | September 17-19 | $663.00 |
Contact our knowledgeable staff today to discuss making your western experience holiday a reality.
Experience the wonder of Kananaskis Country - 4200 square kilometres of towering peaks, high mountain lakes and alpine meadows located in the heart of the Alberta Rockies. The 2010 season is offered in partnership with “Trail Riders of the Canadian Rockies” (TRCR), who are celebrating their 85th year of riding throughout the Rocky Mountains. These back country pack trips are operated in a truly unique area, riding into remote locations in the high country with virtually no other users.
Each day riders will enjoy a picnic lunch and have lots of time to take pictures of the spectacular scenery. All of the staff are very personable and have an abundance of experience. The head guide has been running pack trips for over 30 years. In the traditional manner, all gear and food supplies are packed in with the horses. Everything, except sleeping bags and personal gear, is supplied for your trip.
The camps offer comfortable accommodation, in weatherproof tents or painted tepees, with foam mattresses on camp cots. And, for those mountain air appetites, hearty, home-cooked meals are prepared on a wood-burning stoves in the large kitchen tents.
Every day is a once in a lifetime experience, with unique destinations including high passes and high alpine lakes. Fishing is good in these parts and the views and photography opportunities are extraordinary. To round out each day, what could be better than a sing-song around a blazing campfire before turning in for the night.
Explore a part of the country that you’ve never experienced before and ride, hike or just relax in the mountain sun.
Plan to arrive at the ranch promptly at 9:00 a.m.. You will be matched with a compatible horse and given a short orientation, then it’s an undemanding 13 mile ride up the Evan Thomas Valley to the main camp. Along the way enjoy a picnic lunch with plenty of time to take pictures of the spectacular scenery. After settling in at the camp, and taking time to explore the surrounding meadow, listen for the dinner bell. All of the hearty meals are prepared in large kitchen tents on a wood burning stove. At the end of the day, what could be better than gathering around a blazing camp fire before turning in for the night.
The comfortable camp provides cozy accommodation in large, canvas wall sleeping tents or painted tepees with foam mattresses on camp cots. Plan to arrive at the ranch promptly at 9:00 a.m.. You will be matched with a compatible horse and given a short orientation, then it’s an undemanding 13 mile ride up the Evan Thomas Valley to the main camp. Along the way enjoy a picnic lunch with plenty of time to take pictures of the spectacular scenery. After settling in at the camp, and taking time to explore the surrounding meadow, listen for the dinner bell. All of the hearty meals are prepared in large kitchen tents on a wood burning stove. At the end of the day, what could be better than gathering around a blazing camp fire before turning in for the night. The comfortable camp provides cozy accommodation in large, canvas wall sleeping tents or painted tepees with foam mattresses on camp cots.
Today begins with a hearty camp breakfast. Then the horses are saddled, and the group heads out to a wonderful 360 degree panoramic view point looking back down the valley you rode up yesterday and forward to two passes. The higher of these passes, which you’ll visit in the next few days, is over 8,000 feet. Later in the day, after lunch by an Alpine lake, you’ll ride down a box canyon, crossing a winding creek several times, before arriving at camp.
From Happy Valley it’s on to the TRCR traditional Tepee Town Camp, home for the remaining days of your adventure. Accommodation at this location is in painted Indian Tepees and tents beside the north fork of the Little Elbow River.
On the remaining days of the Five and Six day pack trips, you will ride to unique destinations including high passes and high alpine lakes.
Fishing is good in these parts and the views and photography opportunities are extraordinary.
On the final day, you continue riding south, enjoy lunch by a beautiful alpine lake and then travel onward to your rendezvous point in the Highwood Pass. From here you will be transferred by road back to your starting point at the ranch. On the final day, you continue riding south, enjoy lunch by a beautiful alpine lake and then travel onward to your rendezvous point in the Highwood Pass. From here you will be transferred by road back to your starting point at the ranch.
Mondays; June 28, July 5,12,19,26, August 2,9,16,23,30, 2010
Mondays; June 28, July 5,12,19,26, August 2,9,16,23,30, 2010
Fridays; July 2,9,16,23,30 August 6,13,20,27, 2010
Saturdays; July 3,10,17,24,31 August 7,14,21,28
Mondays
Contact our knowledgeable staff today to discuss making your western experience holiday a reality.
Saddle up for an exceptional horseback riding adventure. Ride alongside cowboys that carry on western traditions andm heritage. Enjoy riding a gentle, responsive horse. Head for the high country on a 2, 3, or 4 day all inclusive horseback adventure, and ride across open meadows filled with a dazzling array of wildflowers. Meander through silent, shady pine forests, and crest high ridges for a breathtaking view of the Rocky Mountains.
Relax and rejuvenate at our rustic high-country wilderness base camp, with log-style cabins, handcrafted cedar hot tub, clean out houses, delicious meals, canoeing, and more.
Arrive at the Ranch at 10:30 am for sign up and introduction to horses and guides. Return time is around 4:00 pm on the last day of your package. Overnight trips usually start by the last week in May once the snow pack is gone in the high country. These packages continue until the beginning of October (weather permitting).
You ride into a secluded valley to the remote base camp, a sanctuary of peace and tranquility. The camp is free fromelectricity, and yet our guests still enjoy the comfort, privacy, and security of four log-style sleeping cabins, nestled among tall majestic pines. Each of these charming pine cabins has comfortable double & single beds, and each booking is ensured their own private cabin. Well maintained outhouses are conveniently situated nearby, and for those who want to spruce up after a long days ride we have the added luxury of a cedar enclosure for hot showers.
There is a hand crafted cedar hot tub, heated by a unique submerged wood stove. This 8 person hot tub is situated in the heart of the base camp, surrounded by tall stately pines. Envision yourself soaking and relaxing in steaming hot spring water, amidst the aroma of cedar and pine.
Contact our knowledgeable staff today to discuss making your western experience holiday a reality.
These inspiring pack trip adventures use two comfy tent camps based in the Bighorn Wildlands (foothills of the Rocky Mountains, west of Caroline, Alberta) to accommodate guests. Each tent comes with beds, foam mattresses, a woodstove and cosy sleeping-bags to offer all the comfort you need for a pleasant rest after a full day of riding through the beautiful Clearwater River Valley.
Both the Base Camp and the Adventure Camp have a wash tent with a shower compartment and a homey kitchen tent. The Base Camp has a fire tent and the Adventure Camp has a tipi where guest can gather around the campfire to share stories, laughter and memories.
The Base Camp is surrounded by great trails waiting to be explored on day-rides that journey through the forest, flowery meadows and by clear mountain streams. Each day at Base Camp starts with a rich cowboy breakfast. Then, its off to ride the scenic trails – a new and unique riding adventure awaits you each day. Along the way you may pass herds of wild horses grazing in a meadow. Come midday, you will be ready for a hearty picnic lunch in the pristine quiet of this wilderness wonderland. Later in the afternoon, you will arrive back at Base Camp. After the horses are turned out in the pasture, munching on their well deserved hay, there is time to go for a walk, cool off in Cutoff Creek or just relax until the bell rings for a hearty evening meal.
As soon as the snow-melt is finished and the Clearwater River is low enough (starting in July), we follow it deep into the Rockies to the “Adventure Camp”. Our team of horses, Mac and Rocket, pull the covered wagon loaded with luggage and supplies for your one week adventure.
Your senses will carry away a multitude memories to draw you back to this magical wilderness getaway … the ringing of bells on the horses, so they won’t be lost while grazing; the singing of crickets in the evening; the crackling of the campfire; the sounds of music in the background; and who could forget the aroma of coffee, frying bacon and hot cakes as you awaken in the morning.
Discover endless adventure, including opportunities for hiking and exploring, wildlife and nature observation, and relaxing in rare solitude. Ride winding trails to alpine lakes, clear mountain streams, wide meadows and secluded campsites. All this and much more come together to provide the memories you will carry with you from your wilderness adventure.
| 2010 - 8 Day/8 Night Tent Camp Trips – Saturday to Saturday | ||
|---|---|---|
| MC 1 | June 26 – July 3 | (Base Camp) |
| MC 2 | July 10 – 17 | (Base Camp & Adventure Camp *) ** |
| MC 3 | July 24 – 31 | (Base Camp & Adventure Camp) |
| MC 4 | August 7 – 14 | (Base Camp & Adventure Camp) |
| MC 5 | August 21 – 28 | (Base Camp & Adventure Camp) |
| MC 6 | September 4 – 11 | (Base Camp & Adventure Camp) |
| MC 7 | September 18 – 25 | (Base Camp & Adventure Camp) |
* The Adventure Camp is for EXPERIENCED RIDERS ONLY. The journey from Base Camp is 26 miles (40 kilometres) and crosses the Clearwater River 17 times.
** Adventure Camp stays are dependent on weather and water level – generally accessible during July, August & September.
First night is spent in a hotel in Sundre - included in price. Walled outfitters tents with beds, foam mattresses, sleeping bags and a wood stove. There is also a large kitchen tent, a wash tent with a shower compartment and a fire tent at each site.
Wholesome, hearty meals are provided from supper on arrival in camp on Sunday to breakfast on the last day. Breakfast and supper are served in camp, lunch is served on the trail. Dietary restrictions (Allergies, Vegetarian) are happily accommodated with advance notice. Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate a vegan diet. Alcoholic beverages are NOT included with meals.
Pick-up in Calgary prior to 4:00pm. Journey through Alberta’s rolling foothills to the Base Camp just west of Caroline. Driving directions are available for those with their own vehicles. After a hearty home cooked dinner, you will settle into your warm and comfortable tent for a restful night’s sleep.
After a rich cowboy breakfast, weather and water level permitting, you will travel up the Clearwater River to the Adventure Camp.
If conditions dictate continuing your adventure at the Base Camp, you will set out on one of the many uniquely scenic trails that abound throughout the area. Along the way you may pass herds of wild horses grazing in a meadow. Come midday, you will be ready for a hearty picnic lunch in the pristine quiet of this wilderness wonderland. Later in the afternoon, you will arrive back at Base Camp. After the horses are turned out in the pasture, munching on their well deserved hay, there is time to go for a walk, cool off in Cutoff Creek or just relax until the bell rings for a hearty evening meal.
The journey to Adventure Camp takes you up stream along the Clearwater River, deep into the Rocky Mountains, for approximately 26 miles (40 kilometres). You will cross the river as many as 17 times along the way. On this leg of your journey you are accompanied by the covered wagon loaded with luggage and supplies for your one week adventure.
Each day you will discover endless adventures, including opportunities for hiking and exploring, wildlife and nature observation, and relaxing in rare solitude of this mountain hideaway. Your daily rides will take you along winding trails to alpine lakes, clear mountain streams and wide meadows. All this and much more come together to provide the memories you will carry with you from your wilderness adventure.
Today will see you make the return journey along the Clearwater River to Base Camp. Here you will spend the evening around the campfire recalling the multitude of memories that will draw you back to this magical wilderness getaway again and again.
After another of those hearty cowboy breakfasts that you have come to look forward to each morning, you will depart on your return journey to Calgary. Exactly when you hit the trail will depend on your specific flight departure time or further travel plans. You should allow approximately four hours travel time to return to the Calgary Airport.
Guest Capacity: 1 to 8 persons
8 Day/8 Night: $1625/person plus Tax and 10% gratuity.
Customized trips of various lengths are available on request.
Welcome to the Brewster Mountain Backcountry Horseback Pack Trips. Many Brewsters, and those who have worked for them, have enjoyed some of the most spectacular scenery in the world in the backcountry of Alberta.
The Mountain Horse has been an important part in the exploration and enjoyment of the Canadian Rocky Mountains for more than 250 years.
Legends in the Canadian Rockies, Banff’s Brewster family has helped the past stay alive. For six generations the family has been sharing the spectacular nature of the Rockies and its remarkable surroundings with visitors from all over the world.
Brewster Mountain Horse Pack Trips provide backcountry vacations for guests who want to experience this type of adventure. The horses, guides, meals, and cabin accommodations are all provided. Guests need only relax and enjoy the scenery. Trips to Hussey’s Cabins and to Meadow Creek explore the Ghost river areas northwest of the Kananaskis Ranch. The trips leave from the Ranch and can be 2 to 5 days in duration.
Meadow Creek has been the winter grazing grounds for the Brewster’s horses since the early 1900’s. Over the years the family has run as many as
600 head of horses, but today run about 150. Hussey’s Cabin location is named after Brewster family friend, Fred Hussey, who had an old cabin in this private mountain location, where he came to get away from it all.
A soul-cleansing sense of peacefulness is yours as you breathe the fragrant air, gaze at the mountain panoramas, and enjoy your horseback adventure.
These pack trips travel in some of the most spectacular areas of the Rockies, where seeing is definitely believing! While crossing streams and traveling through wooded areas, we climb to elevations of approximately 5,500 feet on well kept switchback trails up and over the Yamnuska Mountain on the border of Banff National Park.
Summer 2010 Rates are $225.00 plus GST per person / per day.
The following are the rates based on the type of trip booked:
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