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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
strive 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.
Departs Wednesdays, late June to mid September.
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 25-June 30 | $1385.00 |
| 2R | July 2-7 | $1564.00 |
| 3R | July 9-14 | $1564.00 |
| 4R | July 16-21 | $1564.00 |
| 5R | July 23-28 | $1564.00 |
| 6R | July 30-August 4 |
$1564.00 |
| 7R | August 6-11 | $1564.00 |
| 8R | August 13-18 |
$1564.00 |
| 9R | August 20-25 | $1564.00 |
| 10R | August 27-Sept 1 | $1564.00 |
| 11R | September 3-8 |
$1385.00 |
| 12R | September 10-15 | $1385.00 |
| 13R | September 17-22 | $1385.00 |
The 2 day rides depart on Saturdays from May to October. This trip spends overnight at Sundance Lodge.
| 2-Day Lodge trips - Saturday Departures | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1W | May 10-11 | $466.00 |
| 2W | May 17-18 | $466.00 |
| 3W | May 24-25 | $466.00 |
| 4W | May 31-June 1 | $466.00 |
| 5W | June 7-8 | $466.00 |
| 6W | June 14-15 | $466.00 |
| 7W | June 21-22 | $466.00 |
| 8W | June 28-29 | $466.00 |
| 9W | July 5-6 | $526.00 |
| 10W | July 12-13 | $526.00 |
| 11W | July 19-20 | $526.00 |
| 12W | July 26-27 | $526.00 |
| 13W | August 2-3 | $526.00 |
| 14W | August 9-10 | $526.00 |
| 15W | August 16-17 | $526.00 |
| 16W | August 23-24 | $526.00 |
| 17W | August 30-31 | $526.00 |
| 18W | September 6-7 | $466.00 |
| 19W | September 13-14 | $466.00 |
| 20W | September 20-21 | $466.00 |
| 21W | September 27-28 | $466.00 |
| 22W | October 4-5 | $466.00 |
| 23W | October 11-12 | $466.00 |
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 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1S | May 12-14 | $706.00 |
| 3S | May 19-21 | $706.00 |
| 5S | May 26-28 | $706.00 |
| 7S | June 2-4 | $706.00 |
| 9S | June 9-11 | $706.00 |
| 11S | June 16-18 | $706.00 |
| 13S | June 23-25 | $706.00 |
| 24S | June 30-July 2 | $706.00 |
| 26S | September 10-12 | $706.00 |
| 28S | September 8-10 | $706.00 |
| 30S | September 15-17 | $706.00 |
| 32S | September 22-24 | $706.00 |
| 34S | Septmber 29-October 1 | $706.00 |
| 3-Day Lodge trips - Thursday Departures | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2S | May 15-17 | $706.00 |
| 4S | May 22-24 | $706.00 |
| 6S | May 29-31 | $706.00 |
| 8S | June 5-7 | $706.00 |
| 10S | June 12-14 | $706.00 |
| 12S | June 19-21 | $706.00 |
| 14S | June 26-28 | $706.00 |
| 15S | July 3-5 | $795.00 |
| 16S | July 10-12 | $795.00 |
| 17S | July 17-19 | $795.00 |
| 18S | July 24-26 | $795.00 |
| 19S | July 31-August 2 | $795.00 |
| 20S | August 7-9 | $795.00 |
| 21S | August 14-16 | $795.00 |
| 22S | August 21-23 | $795.00 |
| 23S | August 28-30 | $795.00 |
| 25S | September 4-6 |
$706.00 |
| 27S | September 11-13 | $706.00 |
| 29S | CLOSED | |
| 31S | October 2-4 | $706.00 |
| 33S | October 9-11 | $706.00 |
| 35S | October 16-18 | $706.00 |
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 29-July 2 | $937.00 |
| 2G | July 6-9 | $1055.00 |
| 3G | July 13-16 | $1055.00 |
| 4G | July 20-23 | $1055.00 |
| 5G | July 27-30 | $1055.00 |
| 6G | August 3-6 | $1055.00 |
| 7G | August 10-13 | $1055.00 |
| 8G | August 17-20 | $1055.00 |
| 9G | August 24-27 | $1055.00 |
| 10G | August 31-September 3 | $1055.00 |
| 11G | September 7-10 | $937.00 |
| 12G | September 14-17 | $937.00 |
| 13G | September 21-24 | $937.00 |
The 5 day trip departs on a Monday and spends the first night at Sundance Lodge, the second and third nights at Halfway (L)odge and returns to Sundance for the final evening.
| 5-Day Lodge trips - Monday Departures | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1H | June 30-July 4 | $1163.00 |
| 2H | July 7-11 | $1312.00 |
| 3H | July 14-18 | $1312.00 |
| 4H | July 21-25 | $1312.00 |
| 5H | July 28-August 1 | $1312.00 |
| 6H | August 4-8 | $1312.00 |
| *7H | August 11-15 | $1312.00 |
| 8H | August 18-22 | $1312.00 |
| 9H | August 25-29 | $1312.00 |
| 10H | September 1-5 | $1163.00 |
| 11H | September 8-12 | $1163.00 |
| 12H | September 15-19 | $1163.00 |
| 13H | September 22-26 | $1163.00 |
Contact
our knowledgeable staff today to discuss making your western experience
holiday a reality.
Tours depart late June to late September.
These
trips explore some of Banff National Park's most spectacular back country.
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 meadows, 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 25-30 | $1233.00 |
| 2B | July 2-7 | $1427.00 |
| 3B | July 9-14 | $1427.00 |
| 4B | July 16-21 | $1427.00 |
| 5B | July 23-28 | $1427.00 |
| 6B | July 30-August 4 | $1427.00 |
| 7B | August 6-11 | $1427.00 |
| *8B | August 13-18 – Dave Day Mountain Ecosystem | $1527.00 |
| 9B | August 20-25 |
$1427.00 |
| *10B | August 27-September 1 – Year of the Grizzly | $1527.00 |
| 11B | September 3-8 | $1233.00 |
| 12B | September 10-15 | $1233.00 |
| 13B | September 17-22 | $1233.00 |
*8B – Dave Day Mountain Ecosystem
Every Year since 1992, Dave Day has been heading up the Mountain Ecosystem Interpretive Ride, offering the knowledge and passion that he has gained for the Rocky Mountains over a 35-year career in environmental conservation. Dave leads guests on a 6-day discovery that embraces the evolution of mountain life zones, the cultural forces that shaped Banff National Park, as well as the challenges and issues that face our modern national park system. Your cowboy classroom, as you travel mountain passes and valley floor habitats, will be the sub-alpine and alpine life zones.
Wear your riding boots, but pack your walking shoes! Dave's interpretive rides feature lunchtime talks, evening hikes and campfire stories.
*10B – Year of the Grizzly
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.
| 4-Day Tent trips - Monday Departures | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1A | June 30-July 3 | $837.00 |
| 2A | July 7-10 | $966.00 |
| 3A | July 14-17 | $966.00 |
| 4A | July 21-24 | $966.00 |
| 5A | July 28-31 | $966.00 |
| 6A | August 4-7 | $966.00 |
| 7A | August 11-14 | $966.00 |
| 8A | August 18-21 | $966.00 |
| 9A | August 25-28 | $966.00 |
| 10A | September 1-4 | $837.00 |
| 11A | September 8-11 | $837.00 |
| 12A | September 15-18 | $837.00 |
| 13A | September 22-25 | $837.00 |
| 5-Day Tent trips - Saturday Departures | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1C | June 28 - July 2 | $1037.00 |
| 2C | July 5-9 | $1199.00 |
| 3C | July 12-16 | $1199.00 |
| 4C | July 19-23 | $1199.00 |
| 5C | July 26-30 | $1199.00 |
| 6C | August 2-6 | $1199.00 |
| 7C | August 9-13 | $1199.00 |
| 8C | August 16-20 | $1199.00 |
| 9C | August 23-27 | $1199.00 |
| 10C | August 30-September 3 | $1199.00 |
| *11C | September 6-10 – Paws in the Wilderness |
$1147.00 |
| 12C | September 13-17 | $1037.00 |
| 13C | September 20-24 | $1037.00 |
*11C – Paws in the Wilderness
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.
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 4-6 | $729..00 |
| 2M | July 11-13 | $729.00 |
| 3M | July 18-20 | $729.00 |
| 4M | July 25-27 | $729.00 |
| 5M | August 1-3 | $729.00 |
| 6M | August 8-10 | $729.00 |
| 7M | August 15-17 | $729.00 |
| 8M | August 22-24 | $729.00 |
| 9M | August 29-31 | $729.00 |
| 10M | September 5-7 | $632.00 |
| 11M | September 12-14 | $632.00 |
| 12M | September 19-21 | $632.00 |
Contact
our knowledgeable staff today to discuss making your western experience
holiday a reality.
The most challenging and rugged horse pack trips we offer are the Adventure Expedition rides, designed for the outdoor enthusiast. New camps are established daily as the expedition penetrates further into the mountains. You will visit isolated areas of Banff National Park that few have an opportunity to experience, and travel mountain passes and valleys that are of unsurpassed beauty.
Here also is the opportunity to brush up on your camp "skills", pitch your tent, haul a bucket or two of water, and help gather fire wood. Guest participation is a very important part of these trips. A maximum of 9 guests are allowed on the moving trips and duffel is kept at a weight not exceeding 30 lbs.
Kananaskis Valley - Grizzlies Al, this image is from our photo gallery, so I am confident that you should have a web quality copy around to put in space space.
In
1992 a wildlife corridor was established in the Spray Valley, limiting human
access to the area. This valley was designated a carnivore conservation
area due to the large numbers of bears, cougars and wolves making home in
this valley. We are pleased to offer a limited number of Adventure Expeditions
through this area accompanied by a Parks Canada researcher. These interpreters
will offer an inside look at the animal population of this unique corridor.
These
special Expedition trips give our guests the best of both worlds. They are
designed for those who are specifically interested in wildlife in the park,
while still being able to travel through spectacular mountain scenery. Join
us for an unforgettable trip!
Tour price does not include Wilderness Park Fee ($10/person/night) & TAX:
| 6-DAY ADVENTURE EXPEDITIONS (TENTING) - Thursday Departures | ||
|---|---|---|
| Expedition 1 | July 3 – July 8 | $1858.00 |
Expedition 2 |
July 10 – 15 |
$1858.00 |
| Expedition 3 |
July 17 – 22 - WMT |
$1958.00 |
Expedition 4 |
July 24 – 29 |
$1858.00 |
Expedition 5 |
July 31 – August 5 |
$1858.00 |
Expedition 6 |
August 7 – 12 |
$1858.00 |
Expedition 7 |
August 14 – 19 |
$1858.00 |
Expedition 8 |
August 21 – 26 |
$1858.00 |
| Expedition 9 |
August 28 –September 2 | $1858.00 |
| Expedition 10 |
September 4 – 9 - * WMT |
$1958.00 |
| Expedition 11 |
September 11 – 16 |
$1638.00 |
| Expedition 12 |
September 18 – 23 |
$1638.00 |
Banff - Elk Trap - Dormer Pass - Lower Panther - Tyrell Creek - Ya Ha Tinda
Ya Ha Tinda - Tyrell Creek - Lower Panther - Dormer Pass - Elk Trap – Banff
Banff - Eau Claire - Spray Lake - Assiniboine Pass - Tall Timbers - Allenby Pass - Halfway Meadows - Healy Creek
Johnston Creek - Flints Park - North Cascade - Panther Pass - Upper Panther - Elk Horn Lake - Sulphur Springs - Panther River
Panther River - Sulphur Springs - Elk Horn Lake - Upper Panther - Panther Pass - North Cascade - Flints Park - Johnston Creek
Upper Johnston Creek - Pulsatilla Pass - Baker Creek - Red Deer Lakes - Cyclone - South Molar Pass - Mosquito Creek
Mosquito Creek to Johnston: Mosquito Creek - South Molar Pass - Cyclone - Red Deer Lakes - Baker Creek - Pulsatilla Pass - Upper Johnston Creek
Dolomite Pass - Isabella Lake - Clearwater Pass - Devon Lakes - Clearwater Lake - Mallock Creek - Indian Head - Divide Pass - Red Deer River - Tyrell Creek - Ya Ha Tinda
Ya Ha Tinda - Tyrell Creek - Red Deer River - Divide Pass - Indian Head - Mallock Creek - Clearwater Lake - Devon Lakes - Clearwater Pass - Isabella Lake - Dolomite Pass
Banff - Eau Claire - Spray Lake - Assiniboine Pass - Tall Timbers - Allenby Pass - Halfway Meadows - Healy Creek
Johnston Creek - Badger Pass - Flints Park - Panther - Cascade Valley - Elk Lake Summit
Elk Lake Summit - Cascade Valley - Panther - Flints Park - Badger Pass - Johnston Creek
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 2008 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.
6 Day/5 Night: $1350/person plus GSTand 10% gratuity.
Scheduled Departures: Sundays; July 13*, 20, 27; August 10, 17, 24, 31; September 7, 2008
5 Day/4 Night: $1125/person plus GST and 10% Gratuity
Scheduled Departure: Monday; July 7, 2008
4 Day/3 Night: $900/person plus GST and 10% Gratuity
Scheduled Departures: Tuesdays; July 1, 2008 & August 5, 2008
* The July 13, 2008 departure will be a Special Photography Oriented Ride. Neil Thiessen, an experienced landscape photographer, will join pack trip members on this ride. Point-and-shooters will gain an insight into composition and develop an appreciation for the magic of changing light conditions. For those with SLR cameras, Neil will review depth of field, lens speed settings, hyper-focal distance and other more advanced techniques. As an added bonus, Neil is also a Geologist, which provides you with a wonderful opportunity to satisfy your curiosity about the past, present and future of the Rocky Mountains.
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 and 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).
$198/person/day (based on double occupancy) plus
Tax and 10% gratuity.
You
ride into a secluded valley to the remote base camp, a sanctuary of peace
and tranquility. The camp is free from electricity, 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.
| 2008 - 7 Day/6 Night Tent Camp Trips – Sunday Departures | ||
|---|---|---|
| MC 1 | June 15 – 21 | (Base Camp) |
| MC 2 | June 29 – July 5 | (Base Camp) |
| MC 3 | July 13 – 19 | (Base Camp & Adventure Camp *) ** |
| MC 4 | July 27 – August 2 | (Base Camp & Adventure Camp) |
| MC 5 | August 10 – 16 | (Base Camp & Adventure Camp) |
| MC 6 | August 24 – 30 | (Base Camp & Adventure Camp) |
| MC 7 | September 7 – 13 | (Base Camp & Adventure Camp) |
| MC 8 | September 21 – 27 | (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.
Base Camp: Bighorn Wildlands in the foothills of the
Rocky Mountains at Cutoff Creek.
Adventure Camp: Deep in the Rockies on a cliff above the
Clearwater River.
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 Day 1 to breakfast on Day 7. 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
7 Day/6 Night: $1500/person plus Tax and 10% gratuity.
Customized trips of various lengths are available on request.
Contact
our knowledgeable staff today to discuss making your western experience
holiday a reality.
4 Days/3 Nights – CAN$1299.00/Person plus GST (based on double occupancy)
The Cowboy Trail – Waterton Lakes National Park – Waterton Lakes Lodge
We
will pick you up in Calgary. Your adventure starts immediately as we set
off on our journey down The Cowboy Trail. Along the foothills
of Alberta’s Rocky Mountains is a narrow band of mixed forests and
grasslands known for its moderate climate, a wide variety of wildlife species
and broad ecological diversity. Alberta ranching families first settled
the territory in the 1880s and transformed the rolling grasslands into cattle
country. Today, communities along this corridor are linked together by The
Cowboy Trail, a ribbon of pavement extending from Cardston to Mayerthorpe.
The Old West is still evident in the art, history, food, hospitality and
culture of the foothills residents. Along the way, you may see cowboys out
herding cattle, sometimes right along the highway, and families out for
a horseback ride.
You end today’s journey in the quiet, uncrowded Waterton Lakes National Park. The Perfect place to view spectacular scenery, wildlife and discover nature at its best. A rare gem tucked into the south-western corner of the province of Alberta, Canada. In this breathtaking part of the world, the majestic Rocky Mountains rise suddenly out of the rolling prairies. Amid the peaks are the lakes of Waterton Lakes National Park, carved out of the rock by ancient glaciers.
Waterton Lakes National Park borders Glacier National Park in Montana to the south, and together they make up the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, the first of its kind in the world. A place like no other, the uniqueness of Waterton Park is a blend of unusual geology, mild climate, rare wild flowers, and an abundance of wildlife. It is a scene which has remained unchanged for centuries.
Your accommodation for tonight is at the Waterton Lakes Lodge. Nestled in the heart of the Village of Waterton, with panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains on all sides, the Lodge is an "environmentally friendly resort.” There are 80 well-appointed guest rooms in nine buildings which can best be described as a series of country inns with a variety of room sizes and features. There is also a guest recreation centre, including fitness facilities, and an indoor saltwater swimming pool and whirlpool hot tub, sauna and steam room. Special attention has been taken to provide a comfortable, natural decor which complements the beauty of the surrounding area. Every room is individually decorated, its theme representing the natural and cultural resources of the park.
Mountain Meadow Trail Rides Pack Trip
After
a delicious breakfast in the Lodge’s Roof Top Dining Room,
and a short 20 minute drive in the foothills, you arrive at the Mountain
Meadow Trail Rides to begin preparations for your 3-day pack trip.
This historic ranch, owned and operated by Dan & Terri Nelson and their
family was homesteaded over 100 years ago, in 1898, by Dan's Grandfather.
The legacy of raising and training horses is carried on today. The Nelson
family strive to maintain the integrity of a western lifestyle. This 2,000
acre working cattle and horse ranch has around 300 cows & 40 horses.
By preserving western traditions and lifestyles, they are able to share
the colorful legends, history and culture of the area with their guests.
You will now be introduced to a riding experience that is unsurpassed in quality. Your 3-day "all-inclusive" riding trip will be guided by one of the Nelson cowboys. So saddle up and head for the high country, where you’ll ride across open meadows filled with a dazzling array of wildflowers, meander through silent shady pine forests, and feel yourself relax and rejuvenate in the serenity of nature. And at the end of the day, you arrive at the remote private wilderness base camp with cabins, cedar hot tub & shower. All around you is beauty and peace … and this is only day one.
Mountain Meadow Trail Rides Pack Trip
After another hearty western breakfast, you can take a trail ride from your base camp to further enjoy the magnificent scenery. Your enjoyment is enhanced by the fact that the folks at the ranch ensure that each rider’s experience level is matched with an appropriate horse. You will travel in a small group that allows the guide to interact with the riders, help with riding instructions or just share stories about the area, past and present.
At the end of the day you return to the base camp for some time in the hot tub, a great meal, and some stories around the campfire.
Mountain Meadow Trail Rides Pack Trip – Calgary
This morning you’ll saddle up and head back across the countryside, through the open meadows and shady pine forests, to the ranch house. You can take a little time to relax, and then you head back to Calgary.
Contact
our knowledgeable staff today to discuss making your western experience
holiday a reality.
5 Days/4 Nights – CAN$1539.00/Person plus GST (based on double occupancy)
The Cowboy Trail – Waterton Lakes National Park – Waterton Lakes Lodge
We will pick
you up in Calgary. Your adventure starts immediately as we set off on our
journey down The Cowboy Trail. Along the foothills of Alberta’s
Rocky Mountains is a narrow band of mixed forests and grasslands known for
its moderate climate, a wide variety of wildlife species and broad ecological
diversity. Alberta ranching families first settled the territory in the
1880s and transformed the rolling grasslands into cattle country. Today,
communities along this corridor are linked together by The Cowboy Trail,
a ribbon of pavement extending from Cardston to Mayerthorpe. The Old West
is still evident in the art, history, food, hospitality and culture of the
foothills residents. Along the way, you may see cowboys out herding cattle,
sometimes right along the highway, and families out for a horseback ride.
You end today’s journey in the quiet, uncrowded Waterton Lakes National Park. The Perfect place to view spectacular scenery, wildlife and discover nature at its best. A rare gem tucked into the south-western corner of the province of Alberta, Canada. In this breathtaking part of the world, the majestic Rocky Mountains rise suddenly out of the rolling prairies. Amid the peaks are the lakes of Waterton Lakes National Park, carved out of the rock by ancient glaciers.
Waterton Lakes National Park borders Glacier National Park in Montana to the south, and together they make up the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, the first of its kind in the world. A place like no other, the uniqueness of Waterton Park is a blend of unusual geology, mild climate, rare wild flowers, and an abundance of wildlife. It is a scene which has remained unchanged for centuries.
Your accommodation for tonight is at the Waterton Lakes Lodge. Nestled in the heart of the Village of Waterton, with panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains on all sides, the Lodge is an "environmentally friendly resort.” There are 80 well-appointed guest rooms in nine buildings which can best be described as a series of country inns with a variety of room sizes and features. There is also a guest recreation centre, including fitness facilities, and an indoor saltwater swimming pool and whirlpool hot tub, sauna and steam room. Special attention has been taken to provide a comfortable, natural decor which complements the beauty of the surrounding area. Every room is individually decorated, its theme representing the natural and cultural resources of the park.
Mountain Meadow Trail Rides Pack Trip
After breakfast, and a short 20 minute drive in the foothills, you arrive at the Mountain Meadow Trail Rides to begin preparations for your 4-day pack trip. This historic ranch, owned and operated by Dan & Terri Nelson and their family was homesteaded over 100 years ago, in 1898, by Dan's Grandfather. The legacy of raising and training horses is carried on today. The Nelson family strive to maintain the integrity of a western lifestyle. This 2,000 acre working cattle and horse ranch has around 300 cows & 40 horses. By preserving western traditions and lifestyles, they are able to share the colorful legends, history and culture of the area with their guests.
You will now be introduced to a riding experience that is unsurpassed in quality. Your 4-day "all-inclusive" riding trip will be guided by one of the Nelson cowboys. So saddle up and head for the high country, where you’ll ride across open meadows filled with a dazzling array of wildflowers, meander through silent shady pine forests, and feel yourself relax and rejuvenate in the serenity of nature. And at the end of the day, you arrive at the remote private wilderness base camp with cabins, cedar hot tub & shower. All around you is beauty and peace … and this is only day one.
Mountain Meadow Trail Rides Pack Trip
After another hearty western breakfast, you can take a trail ride from your base camp to further enjoy the magnificent scenery. Your enjoyment is enhanced by the fact that the folks at the ranch ensure that each rider’s experience level is matched with an appropriate horse. You will travel in a small group that allows the guide to interact with the riders, help with riding instructions or just share stories about the area, past and present.
At the end of the day you return to the base camp for some time in the hot tub, a great meal, and some stories around the campfire.
Mountain Meadow Trail Rides Pack Trip
When you wake, you can feel the peacefulness in the mountain air. Your pace of life is changing and you are becoming truly relaxed. It’s time to enjoy another of those wonderful western breakfasts, and set out from your base camp to savour more of the magnificent scenery. As always, your experience is enhanced by the folks at the ranch who ensure that your day is filled with comfort, pleasure, and memorable moments. Your guide is always there to help with riding instructions, and you can be sure that there will be no shortage of western stories about the area, past and present.
By now you have learned to anticipate your return to the base camp for some time in the hot tub, another of those great meals, and some more stories around the campfire.
Mountain Meadow Trail Rides Pack Trip – Calgary
This morning you’ll saddle up and head back across the countryside, through the open meadows and shady pine forests, to the ranch house. You can take a little time to relax, and then you head back to Calgary.
Contact
our knowledgeable staff today to discuss making your western experience
holiday a reality.
Our Escorted Tours offer escorted getaways
for your Western Experience Adventure!
Ask us for a Custom Designed western
experience holiday!
Join us for an Aboriginal Experience!
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