General Info

Enjoy a multi-day horse pack trip or stay in a lodge in beautiful Banff National Park.

On your multi-day wilderness horse riding adventure, conquer wooded trails and rushing streams immersed in nature and away from the hustle and bustle of your daily life. Sleep in tented accommodations in the crisp night air under the stars or in historic mountain lodges. Trade deadlines, schedules and technology for campfires, horses, and trails that lead from one spectacular view after another. These backcountry pack and lodge trips are suitable for people of all riding abilities, including beginning riders.

Horseback riding Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada is a great way to get deep into some beautiful, less trafficked areas of this great Canadian park. Riding here, you may feel like you’re in an Ansel Adams painting, as you round a corner to spot the grand peaks of the Rocky Mountains jutting to the sky. Banff National Park is the oldest national park in Canada. It dates back to 1883, when the Canadian Pacific Railway was being built and workers discovered the unique beauty of the land, as well as a warm Sulphur spring. The town of Banff was built because of these natural hot springs that drew public interest and many celebrities. Since then, many people have enjoyed Banff National Park but only a handful have visited the true nature of the Park. Today, riding the park trails, the scenery looks much as it would have 10,000 years ago when hunter-gatherers roamed the area, harvesting the abundant natural resources.

For pack trips, each campsite has a large kitchen tent with a fire is always on for socializing, eating and drying out anything that many have gotten wet on the trail. Your sleeping rearrangements are A-frame canvas tents with a raised wooden platform. There's plenty of coffee and hot water available at any time and the live in cook ensures there's plenty of food.

For adventurers with a flare for comfort, lodges really make you feel at home in the backcountry with comfortable beds (bedding provided), social kitchens and cozy living rooms. The first lodge you visit was built in 1990 and even has indoor washrooms and heated showers! The second lodge was built in 1928 by the Canadian Pacific Railway. There have been a few renovations since then and guests now have beds.

Awards & Accolades
Featured on the Emmy award-winning Equitrekking series on Public Television Spring of 2010 in the Equitrekking Alberta episode. Host Darley Newman rides to glacial fed Mystic Lake. Her host rides a mule named Sharon Stone.

2009 recipients of the Banff Heritage Tourism award for contributions to the history of tourism in Banff National Park.
 

Packing

Packing for Banff Wilderness Adventures

The weather is unpredictable in the mountains, so layered clothing is key, as is comfortable riding boots, jeans and whatever else you’ll be wearing. When packing your gear, keep in mind it is being packed out on a mule. You must pack your gear in a soft-sided, cloth or nylon bag. Your bag can not have any hard edges, frames or wheels. Your gear is restricted to a Total maximum weight of 30 lbs (sleeping bag, thermos pad, and your duffel). It's a good idea to line the inside of your bag with garbage bags for waterproofing. You may pack your sleeping bag and sleeping pads separately from your other gear. Your coat, rain gear, hat and gloves are packed separately from your duffel and are either worn or tied with saddle strings to the back of your saddle. Saddlebags, rain gear and other essentials that you are taking on your horse with you are not included in the 30 lbs. weight restriction.

If you would like to bring saddlebags or fanny packs, please fill them with only those essential items that you would need during the day, such as lip balm, your camera, sunscreen, etc. Warner Guiding, the outfitter, reserves the right to limit the amount of gear in the saddlebags for weight reasons. Daypacks, backpacks or other bags are NOT allowed -- they are hard on the rider’s back and hard on the horse's back, and do not tie properly to the saddle. The outfitter for this trip, has a limited supply of saddlebags for rent, however it is suggest that you book them early. Please tell us you would like this when you make your reservation. The saddlebags are available for pick up upon check-in (sorry, no earlier) and are rented out on a cash-only basis.

The length of your trip will alter what you need to bring. This list is ideal for a 6-day trip. Please adjust this list according to your trip’s length.

Pack Trip
The following list details essential items to bring with you:
1.    A warm sleeping bag – Warner Guiding, your outfitter for this trip, recommends a bag rated to -15 degrees Celsius or 5 degrees Fahrenheit. You may not need it, but it sure comes in handy if you do. To further keep you snug and warm, they also recommend that you bring a flannel sheet or non-bulky blanket that fits inside your sleeping bag. If you don’t want to sly with your sleeping bag, consider renting one from a local supplier. In Banff, SNOWTIPS-Bactrax rents gear like sleeping bags/liners, thermo-rest sleeping pads, duffel bags etc. Snowtips is located at 225 Bear Street (just a block away from Warner’s Office, the outfitter for this trip). telephone, they can be reached at (403) 762-8177, or fax at (403) 760-6289. Email: snowtips@telusplanet.net
2.    A treated canvas tarp -- used to wrap under and around your sleeping bag to help keep you warm and dry during the night. This can also be used during the day to waterproof your sleeping bag (see instructions below on how to make a bedroll). Tarps can often be found at army surplus stores. Heavy cotton found at a fabric store can be waterproofed and serve the same purpose. You are welcome to bring the bedroll of your choice. Warner Guiding has a limited supply of 8'x10' treated canvas tarps for rent for $5 Canadian/day. If you are interested in this service, please tell us at the time of your booking, so that we can arrange it. These are available for pick up upon check in and are rented out on a cash only basis. 
3.    A mattress -- A self-inflatable mattress (e.g. thermos) works the best to ensure a comfortable night's sleep. See Snowtips above for rental information.
4.    A warm coat -- Essential to ward off chilly nights or a windy day. Also bring a heavy sweater (wool is a great insulator) or fleece jacket.
5.    Rain gear -- A raincoat and rain pants, and if possible, coverings for your boots and hat. Please DO NOT bring rain ponchos, they flap in the wind and can spook the horses. If you have one, we recommend an oilskin slicker. Warner Guiding, your outfitter for this trip, has a limited supply of full-length oilskin slickers for rent for $7/day. If you are interested in this service, please let us know at the time of your booking. These are available for pick up upon check in and are rented out on a cash only basis.
6.    Shirts -- 2 Sweatshirts, 1 long-sleeved shirt and 2 t-shirts. 
7.    Jeans -- One pair for riding in over the six days and one other pair for wearing around various camps at night. Also important is a pair of long underwear for chilly nights. 
8.    Riding boots -- A boot with a heel that can easily slip in and out of stirrups. Alternatives would be a narrow style of hiking boot or solid sneaker. For safety reasons, clunky hiking boots are not recommended. Plastic bags inside your boots will keep your feet dry on rainy days. 
9.    Sneakers -- or an extra pair of shoes for wearing around camp, an extra pair of DRY socks is also recommended. 
10.    Toiletries -- towel, facecloth, biodegradable shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, disposable razors, etc. Please note that there is no electricity at the camps. There is toilet paper and hand soap at all of the camps.
11.    Flashlight – for walking to your tent at night at camp.
12.    Hat/helmet-- A cowboy hat, riding helmet, baseball caps or canvas-type hats. Please ensure that your hat fits snug or ties on and will not blow off in the wind. 
13.    Gloves -- Lined leather or suede gloves provide protection from the elements and a sure grip on the reins (bring two pair just in case one gets wet). 
14.    Scarf -- A silk or cotton scarf is recommended for extra warmth. 
15.    Sunscreen-- sunglasses and mosquito repellent. 
16.    Your camera  
17.    Liquor -- Please make sure that all bottled liquor is wrapped well in plastic and placed in the middle of your duffel to prevent it from breaking. Plastic bottles are preferred. Please pack canned beer separate from your duffel. Canned mix and beer is available for sale in all of the camps. Please remember that alcohol is included in your 30lb weight limit. 
18.    Cellular phones do not work in the areas you'll be riding in so leave them somewhere safe.
19.    Water bottle- for riding.

Lodge Trip
The following list details essential items to bring with you:
1.    A warm coat -- Essential to ward off chilly nights or a windy day. Also bring a heavy sweater (wool is a great insulator) or a fleece jacket. 
2.    Rain gear -- A raincoat and rain pants, and if possible, coverings for your boots and hat. Please DO NOT bring rain ponchos. They flap in the wind and may spook the horses. If you have one, an oilskin slicker is helpful. Warner Guiding, the outfitter for this trip, has a limited supply of full-length oilskin slickers for rent for $7/day. If you are interested in this service, please tell us at the time of your booking. Slickers are available for pick up upon check in for the trip. 
3.    Shirts -- 2 Sweatshirts, 1 long-sleeve shirt and 2 T-shirts. Adjust according to the length of your trip. 
4.    Jeans -- One pair for riding in during the day and another pair for wearing around camp. Two pairs of jeans are all you should need on any of these trips. Also important is a pair of long underwear for chilly nights. 
5.    Riding boots -- A boot with a heel that can easily slip in and out of stirrups. Alternatives would be a narrow style of hiking boot or solid sneaker. For safety reasons, clunky hiking boots are not recommended. Plastic bags inside your boots can help to keep your feet dry on rainy days. 
6.    Sneakers -- or an extra pair of shoes for wearing around the lodge, and a pair of slippers or indoor shoes to wear inside the lodge. An extra pair of dry socks is also recommended. 
7.    Toiletries -- Towel, facecloth, biodegradable shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, disposable razors, etc. Please note that the lodges do not have electricity. Toilet paper and hand soap is supplied at each lodge.
8.    Flashlight -- Remember to check your batteries.
9.    Hat/ helmet-- A cowboy hat offers protection from the elements. Baseball caps or canvas-type hats are also fine. Please ensure that your hat fits snugly and will not blow off in the wind 
10.    Gloves and a scarf -- Lined leather or suede gloves provide protection from the elements and a sure grip on the reins (bring two pair just in case one gets wet). A silk or cotton scarf/bandana is recommended for extra warmth. 
11.    Sunscreen -- sunglasses and mosquito repellent. 
12.    Your camera.
13.    Liquor -- Please make sure that all bottled liquor is wrapped well in plastic and placed in the middle of your duffel to prevent it from breaking. Plastic bottles are preferred. Canned mix and beer is available for sale at both lodges. Please remember that alcohol is included in your 30lbs. limit. All camps are supplied by mule or pack horse. 
14.    Water bottle -- for refreshments while you are riding.

Equipment Rental-- Banff has an equipment rental agency if you’d rather not fly with your sleeping bag and gear. Bactrax/Snowtips at snowtips@telusplanet.net, telephone (403) 762-8177, or fax at (403) 760-6289. Located at 225 Bear Street (just a block away from Warner Guiding’s Headquarters, where you’ll meet at the start of your trip).

How To Make Bedroll-- Lay out your canvas tarp on the ground. Lay your thermos in the middle of the tarp with the air valve pointing to the top of the bedroll (open the valve so that the air will escape as you roll). Line your sleeping bag with a flannel sheet or extra blanket. Place your closed sleeping bag in the middle of the tarp, on top of the thermos. Put a pillowcase in the middle of your sleeping bag. (Once you are ready for bed, you can use your warm coat inside the pillowcase as a pillow). Fold one side flap of the tarp over the sleeping bag. Fold in the other side of the tarp over the sleeping bag. Fold the bottom flap over and start rolling towards the top of the sleeping bag. Once you are near the head of the sleeping bag, reach in and close the valve on your thermos pad. Fold in the top flap of canvas tarp and finish rolling. Using a rope with a slipknot, tie the bedroll securely.

Some Average Temperatures:
June High 19C / 66F Low 5C / 41F
July High 22C / 71F Low 7C / 45F
August High 22C / 70F Low 7C / 44F
September High 16C / 60F Low 3C / 38F

Please note: These are average temperatures at an elevation of 4538 feet. Temperatures will drop at higher elevations
 

About the Horses

The backcountry outfitter for this trip employs a full time year-round farrier. All of their guides are trained in foot care. Their horses are fed high protein alfalfa cubes at camp and a mixture of grains. Horses are groomed and checked over each morning before saddling up for any sores or hot spots. Horses are given the winter off to romp at an 1000 acre ranch in Cochrane.

Activities/Events

Area Activities
Many guests choose to tack on a couple of extra days to their trip to enjoy other aspects of the Canadian Rockies and Alberta.

White-water rafting, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, boat tours, fishing, hot springs, and the fantastic shops, restaurants and the nightlife that Banff has to offer are all possible additions to your trip.

Please talk with Equitrekking Travel’s preferred travel agent to help plan your extended stay. Contact us.

Accommodations/Food

Horse Pack Trip Accommodations
Accommodations are in private A-frame canvas tents with wooden floors at various permanent camps in Banff. Guests are required to bring a bedroll. Tent camps have wash areas with hot water, outhouses, an electric fence to secure the camp from curious animals, treated drinking water, a fire pit for evening campfires, and a large kitchen tent for meals and socializing. 

Each camp is already set up when you arrive. There are three different camps located in Banff and each has their own unique setting and character. 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 gigantic Flints Peak. This camp is equipped with shower facilities, so you can enjoy a quick rinse during your trip. At night, guests enjoy a sky filled with stars. Mystic Camp is set among large old pine and spruce trees, decorated with moss and set against jagged peaks rising in the distance. There’s a small, cool stream that runs through the camp.

Lodge Accommodations
Lodge accommodations are in shared rooms with communal washrooms at either Sundance Lodge or Halfway Lodge. Completed in 1991, Sundance Lodge now sits on the original site of the horse corral for Ten-Mile cabin, built by Canadian Pacific Railway in the 1920's. The cabin itself remains standing and was declared a historical site in 1990. It was used as a refuge for mountain guides and packers traveling to Mount Assiniboine. You can still see their names carved into the logs. Sundance Lodge sits alongside 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, there are hot showers. (Please note that, for environmental reasons, showers are restricted to one per stay.) At Sundance Lodge, private sleeping arrangements are possible depending upon trip size, but are not guaranteed. Rooms are designated on a ‘choose your own’ basis once at the lodges. There is no electricity at this remote lodge.

Surrounded by the beauty of towering peaks, Halfway Lodge has been a welcome haven for over 80 years. Rich in tradition, this cabin was used back in the late 1920's by mountain guide Erling Strom as a stopover for his guests traveling from Banff to Mount Assiniboine. Then a single storied cabin, Strom's wranglers spent the night sleeping in tents while the guests found floor space within. 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. This rustic backcountry cabin remains much the same as it was 80 years ago - simple. Propane lanterns and candles provide the lighting, and a woodstove keeps the water hot and the cabin warm and cozy. Halfway Lodge has outhouses and outdoor showers with fourteen beds in five rooms. Halfway Lodge is equipped with single beds only. There is no electricity at this remote lodge.

Food
Three ranch style meals a day included and prepared by the camp’s cook. Breakfast and Dinner are served at camp, while lunch is served on the trail. You’ll feast on home-cooked ranch style meals. Sample Meal: French Onion soup, Caesar Salad, Baked Potatoes, Roast Beef & Gravy, Peas & Carrots and dessert.

If you have special dietary needs, please let us know at the time of your booking. On this trip, as there is plenty of food available, they do not generally make a separate dish for vegetarians unless they are making a meal like lasagna or stew in which case they would make a separate vegetarian dish. Special considerations can also be made for gluten free, lactose free and other allergies or intolerances with prior notice.

Drinks
Alcohol is not included, but canned mix and beer is available for sale at both lodges. Some beer is available to purchase at camp, but due to the nature of the backcountry cannot be guaranteed.

Guests are certainly welcome to bring any of their own alcohol along on the trip. Please remember that alcohol is included in your 30 lbs. limit. Please make sure that all bottled liquor is well-wrapped in plastic and placed in the middle of your duffel to prevent it from breaking. Plastic bottles are preferred.
 

The Ideal Traveler

Someone who loves the outdoors and wants to maximize his or her time in the saddle for a leisurely scenic riding vacation. Because of the terrain and other factors, these rides are walk only, making them accessible to beginners.

Just by walking, you’ll cover a lot of ground and see some beautiful scenery. Most guests are quite social and enjoy laughing around the campfire and getting to know their fellow travelers. Scenery is the emphasis on these trips and guests enjoy the relaxed pace of the ride to better view the mountains and wildlife.

On pack trips, guests should be excited about having an authentic mountain camping experience. Scenery is the emphasis on these trips and guests enjoy the relaxed pace of the ride to better view the mountains and wildlife. Guests who choose the lodge trips are looking more for a peaceful holiday where they can curl up on the couch under a wool blanket in the evening or cozy up with a good book by candlelight next to the wood stove.

6 Day Lodge Trip

Dates and Rates for 2012

6 days/ 5 nights (departs on Wednesdays)
June 20-25, June 27-July 2, July 4-9, July 11-16, July 18-23, July 25-30, Aug 1-6, Aug 8-13, Aug 15-20, Aug 22-27, Aug 29- Sept 3, Sept 5-10, Sept 12-17

June/September $1,644 USD* ($1660 CAD) per person for double occupancy

July/August $1,865 USD* ($1883 CAD) per person for double occupancy

* Price subject to changes due to currency conversions. The above price INCLUDES the 5% GST and the $10 per night wilderness pass fee.

Day 1- Wednesday- Arrival and Ride to Sundance

Riders meet at the office in Banff at 9:30 a.m. and are transported by van to the stables. For those with a vehicle, free parking is available at Warner stables for the duration of the trip. Once you check-in, directions will be available from the office. At the stables, riders are met by their guides and matched with their horses. The first ride ten-mile ride to Banff Sundance Lodge passes the glacier-fed waters of the Bow River, Healy and Brewster Creeks.

Day 2 – Thursday- Halfway Ride

Today’s ride leads to Halfway Lodge. The trail winds along the historic Strom pack trail with the rugged Sundance Range dominating the eastern horizon.

Day 3 – Friday- Allenby Pass

Rider’s mount up for the day ride up Allenby Pass. Bring your camera. This ride is the highlight of the trip for many people, as you’ll climb to an elevation of 8,100 ft!

Day 4 – Saturday- Brewster Creek Ride

After a warm good-bye to the cook and Halfway Lodge, the winding trail leads back along the Brewster creek to Sundance Lodge. This will be home for the next two nights.

Day 5 – Sunday- Continental Divide

The day begins with a hot, ranch-style breakfast. Fuel for the ride to 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.

Day 6 – Monday- Ride Home

The gang gets together for one last day on the trail, a "soft" ten-mile ride from Sundance to the stables, arriving at approximately 4:30 p.m.

* Please note that this itinerary is flexible and subject to changes and revisions based on the weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

5 Day Lodge Trip

Dates and Rates for 2012

5 days/ 4 nights (departs on Mondays)
June 25-29, July 2-6, July 9-13, July 16-20, July 23-27, July 30- Aug 3, Aug 6-10, Aug 13-17, Aug 20-24, Aug 27-31, Sept 3-7, Sept 10-14, Sept 17-21

June/September $1,383 USD* ($1397 CAD) price person for double occupancy

July/August $1,565 USD ($1580 CAD) price person for double occupancy

* Price subject to changes due to currency conversions. The above price INCLUDES the 5% GST and the $10 per night wilderness pass fee.

Day 1- Monday- Arrival and First Ride

Riders meet at the office in Banff at 9:30 a.m. and are transported by van to Warner Stables. At the stables, riders are met by their guides and matched with horses. The ride is ten mile ride to Banff Sundance Lodge past the glacier-fed waters of the Bow River, Healy and Brewster Creeks. For those with a vehicle, free parking is available at Warner stables for the duration of the trip. Once you check-in, directions will be available from Warner’s office.

Day 2 – Tuesday- Historic Strom Pack Trail

Today’s ride leads to Halfway Lodge. The trail winds along the historic Strom pack trail with the rugged Sundance Range dominating the eastern horizon.

Day 3 – Wednesday- Allenby Pass

Rider’s mount up for the day ride up Allenby Pass. Bring your camera. This ride is the highlight of the trip for many people, as you’ll climb to an elevation of 8,100 ft!

Day 4 – Thursday – Brewster Creek Ride

After a warm good-bye to the cook and Halfway Lodge, the winding trail leads back along the Brewster creek to Sundance Lodge.

Day 5 – Friday- Ride Home

The gang gets together for one last day on the trail, a "soft" ten-mile ride from Sundance to Warner Stables, arriving at approximately 4:30 p.m.

* Please note that this itinerary is flexible and subject to changes and revisions based on the weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

4 Day Lodge Trip

Dates and Rates for 2012

4 days/ 3 nights (departs on Sundays)
June 24-27, July 1-4, July 8-11, July 15-18, July 22-25, July 29-Aug 1, Aug 5-8, Aug 12-15, Aug 19-22, Aug 26-29, Sept 2-5, Sept 9-12, Sept 16-19

June/September $1,116 USD* ($1127 CAD) price person for double occupancy

July/August $1,262 USD* ($1275 CAD) price person for double occupancy

* Price subject to changes due to currency conversions. The above price INCLUDES the 5% GST and the $10 per night wilderness pass fee.

Day 1- Sunday- Arrival and First Ride

Riders meet at the office in Banff at 9:30 a.m. and are transported by van to the stables. At the stables, riders are met by their guides and matched with horses. The ride is ten mile ride to Banff Sundance Lodge past the glacier-fed waters of the Bow River, Healy and Brewster Creeks. For those with a vehicle, free parking is available at the stables for the duration of the trip. Once you check-in, directions will be available from the office.

Day 2 –Monday- Historic Strom Pack Trail

Today’s ride leads to Halfway Lodge. The trail winds along the historic Strom pack trail with the rugged Sundance Range dominating the eastern horizon.

Day 3 – Tuesday- Sundance Ride

After a warm good-bye to the cook and Halfway, the winding trail leads back along the Brewster creek to Sundance Lodge.

Day 4 – Wednesday- Ride Home

The gang gets together for one last day on the trail-- a "soft" ten-mile ride from Sundance to the stables, arriving at approximately 4:30 p.m.

* Please note that this itinerary is flexible and subject to changes and revisions based on the weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

6 Day Wilderness Pack Trip

Dates and Rates for 2012

June 20-25, June 27-July 2, July 4-9, July 11-16, July 18-23, July 25-30, Aug 1-6, Aug 8-13, Aug 15-20 *Mountain Photography, Aug 22-27, Aug 29 Sept 3 * Year of the Grizzly, Sept 5-10, Sept 12-17

6 days/ 5 nights (departs on Wednesdays)

June/September $1,529 USD* ($1544 CAD) price person for double occupancy

July/August $1,771 USD* ($1788 CAD) price person for double occupancy

* Price subject to changes due to currency conversions. The above price INCLUDES the 5% GST and the $10 per night wilderness pass fee.

Day 1 – Wednesday- Elk Lake Summit Ride

You’ll meet at the office in Banff at 8:30 in the morning. From there, you’ll be transported by van to the trailhead corral at Mount Norquay. Here you’ll meet your guide and get matched up with your horse. The first ride is an eleven-mile trek over Elk Lake Summit between Brewster Mountain and Cascade Mountain into Stoney Creek Camp. At the junction of Stoney Creek and the Cascade River, Stoney Creek camp offers the rugged, sculptured peaks of the Palliser Range as a backdrop.

Day 2 – Thursday- Stoney Creek

Today, you’ll trek towards the headwaters of Stoney Creek. Keep a lookout for Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, as they are often grazing in the high meadows along this ride, making a great photo opportunity. You’ll camp at Stoney Creek again tonight. The cook will prepare a hot meal with ample fixings!

Day 3 – Friday- Flint’s Pack Camp

It’s time to head um up and move um out. You’ll need to pack up your stuff, including rolling up that bedroll, because you’re riding to a new camp. Your ten-mile ride takes you to Flint’s Park Camp, located in the center of open, grassy ridges topped with high peaks. This camp is many travelers favorite camp, and that’s not just because there are shower facilities. The views are amazing. Be on the lookout for wildlife, as it’s commonly seen in this area.

Day 4 – Saturday- Mountain Views

You can leave your stuff and just mount up after breakfast. This day ride takes you from Flint’s Park Camp to Block Mountain, or perhaps to Cuthead Viewpoint - just two of the many points of interest accessible from Flint's Park. This diverse area has much to offer the rider, photographer, hiker and fisherman alike.

Day 5 – Sunday- Mystic Valley

Today you’ll venture to Mystic Valley Camp. After you roll up your bedroll and have breakfast, you may want to take the time to view the fine art of horse packing, using the famous diamond hitch. When everything is securely in place, you’ll ride into Mystic Valley for your final night camping out. It is traditional for guides to have a real western dinner for the last night. Share good food and laughter with your new friends and enjoy one last night away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life outside of your wilderness setting.

Day 6 – Monday- Ride Home

The final day’s ride includes a scenic nine mile journey from Mystic Valley to the Mount Norquay Corral. You’re back to where you started, but look how far you’ve come! The "Full Circle" has been completed and the riders return to Banff at approximately 5:00 p.m

* Please note that this itinerary is flexible and subject to changes and revisions based on the weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

5 Day Wilderness Pack Trip

Dates and Rates for 2012
June 23-27, June 30- July 4, July 7-11, July 14-18, July 21-25, July 28-Aug 1, Aug 4-8 *Mules and Mountains Clinic, Aug 11-15, Aug 18-22, Aug 25-29, Sept 1-5 *Paws in the Wilderness, Sept 8-12, Sept 15-19

5 days/ 4 nights (departs on Saturdays)

June/September $1,286 USD* ($1299 CAD) price person for double occupancy

July/August $1,488 USD* ($1503 CAD) price person for double occupancy

* Price subject to changes due to currency conversions. The above price INCLUDES the 5% GST and the $10 per night wilderness pass fee.

Day 1 – Saturday- Stoney Creek Camp

You’ll meet at the office in Banff at 8:30 in the morning. From there, you’ll be transported by van to the trailhead corral at Mount Norquay. Here you’ll meet your guide and get matched up with your horse. The first ride is an eleven-mile trek over Elk Lake Summit between Brewster Mountain and Cascade Mountain into Stoney Creek Camp. At the junction of Stoney Creek and the Cascade River, Stoney Creek camp offers the rugged, sculptured peaks of the Palliser Range as a backdrop.

Day 2 – Sunday- Flint’s Pack Camp

The riders roll up their bedroll, 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 riders. Wildlife is commonly seen and photographed in this area.

Day 3 – Monday- Mountain Views

Mount up after breakfast. This day ride takes you from Flint’s Park Camp to Block Mountain, or perhaps to Cuthead Viewpoint - just two of the many points of interest accessible from Flint's Park. This diverse area has much to offer the rider, photographer, hiker and fisherman alike.

Day 4 – Tuesday- Mystic Valley Camp

Today you’ll venture to Mystic Valley Camp. After you roll up your bedroll and have breakfast, you may want to take the time to view the fine art of horse packing, using the famous diamond hitch. When everything is securely in place, you’ll ride into Mystic Valley for your final night camping out. It is traditional for guides to have a real western dinner for the last night. Share good food and laughter with your new friends and enjoy one last night away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life outside of your wilderness setting.

Day 5 – Wednesday- Ride Home

The final day’s ride includes a scenic nine mile journey from Mystic Valley to the Mount Norquay Corral. You’re back to where you started, but look how far you’ve come! The "Full Circle" has been completed and the riders return to Banff at approximately 5:00 p.m

* Please note that this itinerary is flexible and subject to changes and revisions based on the weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

4 Day Wilderness Pack Trip

Dates and Rates for 2012
June 25-28, July 2-5, July 9-12, July 16-19, July 23-26, July 30-Aug 2, Aug 6-9, Aug 13-16, Aug 20-23, Aug 27-30, Sept 3-6, Sept 10-13, Sept 17-20

4 days/ 3 nights (departs on Mondays)

June/September $1,040 USD* ($1050 CAD) price person for double occupancy

July/August $1,200 USD* ($1212 CAD) price person for double occupancy

* Price subject to changes due to currency conversions. The above price INCLUDES the 5% GST and the $10 per night wilderness pass fee.

Day 1 – Monday- Stoney Creek Camp

You’ll meet at the office in Banff at 8:30 in the morning. From there, you’ll be transported by van to the trailhead corral at Mount Norquay. Here you’ll meet your guide and get matched up with your horse. The first ride is an eleven mile trek over Elk Lake Summit between Brewster Mountain and Cascade Mountain into Stoney Creek Camp. At the junction of Stoney Creek and the Cascade River, Stoney Creek camp offers the rugged, sculptured peaks of the Palliser Range as a backdrop.

Day 2 – Tuesday- Flint’s Park Camp

The riders roll up their bedroll, 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 riders. Wildlife is commonly seen and photographed in this area.

Day 3 – Wednesday- Mystic Valley Camp

Today you’ll venture to Mystic Valley Camp. After you roll up your bedroll and have breakfast, you may want to take the time to view the fine art of horse packing, using the famous diamond hitch. When everything is securely in place, you’ll ride into Mystic Valley for your final night camping out. It is traditional for guides to have a real western dinner for the last night. Share good food and laughter with your new friends and enjoy one last night away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life outside of your wilderness setting.

Day 4 – Thursday- Ride Home

The final day’s ride includes a scenic nine mile journey from Mystic Valley to the Mount Norquay Corral. You’re back to where you started, but look how far you’ve come! The "Full Circle" has been completed and the riders return to Banff at approximately 5:00 p.m

* Please note that this itinerary is flexible and subject to changes and revisions based on the weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

Related Travel Articles

Meet Your Host for the Banff Pack & Lodge Trips

  What’s your travel philosophy? Visiting Banff National Park is a beautiful experience.  But it’s even better from the back of a good horse. What’s your favorite part of your job? Guests may join us from around the world but spending even a day on horseback in these mountains creates… Read more »

Alberta- Banff Pack Trip Video

It’s about a three-hour ride over varied terrain through Banff National Park to reach Mystic Camp. I’m riding Tumbleweed, a mountain-tough quarter horse whose trot is surprisingly smooth, for my Equitrekking Travel Pack Trip info Banff National Park. Barry, our guide, is riding his mule named Sharon Stone. He says… Read more »

Alberta- Banff Pack Trip Adventure

The first day of our pack trip had been an eventful one. The three-hour ride to Mystic Camp was a mix of sun, rain and hail- yes hail in July! We were in the Canadian Rockies of Alberta, exploring Banff National Park and filming a pack trip for a new… Read more »

Traveler Reviews

Outstanding crew keeping us very full from food and interesting stories of their experience and of others on the staff.

- Kris, Indiana

Thank you for guiding us through the very special and beautiful part of Canada! Great food, great people. Hope to see you again soon!

- Rick, Edmonton, Alberta

What a great way to travel and see the Canadian Rockies. All staff have been very accommodating. Great personalities, great skills. One of the best adventures I’ve had.

-Darlene, Marble Falls, Texas

This trip is like a fantastic dream come true. I have enjoyed every minute and will cherish the memories forever. I expected the Rockies to be spectacular but what make the trip really enjoyable is the company, the cooking and the cowboys.

--Suzanna, Ontario

Thank you so much for the great food, wonderful hospitality and welcomed comforts.

-Aaron & Tracie, Primos PA

Great food, great views, great horses, great company… We enjoyed our trip very much. We’ll be back!

-Julia & Felix, Germany

Thank you all so much! I waited 15 years to do this trip and it was worth it!

- Mitchell, KY

Ride & Study Grizzly Bears in the Wild

With Dr. Mike Gibeau

6 day Wilderness Tent Ride

Aug 29- Sept 3, 2012 (Wednesday Departure)

Price: $1,879 USD*  ($1897 CAD) per person double occupancy

* Price subject to changes due to currency conversions.

Year 2001 was emphasized as the ‘Year of the Grizzly’. Due to popular demand, this ride includes an interpretive study of grizzlies and their habitat. Whatever the reason, bears take little notice of horse parties, giving riders an opportunity to observe them and their unique habitat.

In cooperation with Parks Canada, Dr. Mike Gibeau, one of Canada’s leading authorities on grizzlies and their environment, will accompany you on this six day trip. Dr. Gibeau has worked with bears in National Parks for over 30 years, first as a Park Warden, and now as a biologist. Enjoy a horseback adventure and share in the rare opportunity to spend time in one of Canada’s prime Grizzly habitats with professional interpretation.

This trip takes you on a Wilderness pack route through the mountain camps of Stoney Creek, Flints Park and Mystic Valley. Each camp is set up with A-frame canvas tents with wooden floors, large cozy kitchen tents for meals and socializing, rail corrals for the horses, treated drinking water and even a shower at Flints Park Camp!

* Please note that this itinerary is flexible and subject to changes and revisions based on the weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

Pack Trip with Wolf Researcher Melanie Percy

5 day/ 4 night tent trip

Sept 1-5, 2012 (Saturday Departure)

Price: $1,394 USD* ($1408 CAD) per person double occupancy

* Price subject to changes due to currency conversions.

Wolves have always been a fascinating part of mountain life. Their presence contributes greatly to the ecology of the area while remaining mysterious and elusive towards humans. Melanie Percy, an accredited wolf researcher in the Bow Valley has been taking guests into the world of these amazing animals for the past 5 years. The ‘wolf’ trip, which was originally held in conjunction with the World Wolf Congress held in Banff in 2003, has become a popular ride.

Melanie’s time spent studying these animals and their interaction with other wildlife has given her a wide spectrum of knowledge regarding Grizzly & Black bears, Cougars, elk and other wildlife in the area. Melanie will offer insight into pup production, denning habits, high wolf use areas and the general wolf presence in the park.

* Please note that this itinerary is flexible and subject to changes and revisions based on the weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

Banff Photography Trip

6 day lodge trip from Aug 15-20, 2012
Price: $$1,879 USD* ($1897 CAD) per person double occupancy

* Price subject to changes due to currency conversions.

Join world-renowned photographer Raymond Gehman for a 6-day wilderness ride 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.

* Please note that this itinerary is flexible and subject to changes and revisions based on the weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

Reading List

General Guidebooks

Frommer's Alberta (Frommer's Complete) (Paperback) by Murray Whyte
The lowdown on the best of Alberta, from the province's cosmopolitan cities, authentic western heritage, and wealth of outdoor adventures to the awe-inspiring scenery of the Rocky Mountains.

Moon Spotlight Banff National Park (Paperback) by Andrew Hempstead
Moon Spotlight Banff National Park is an 80-page compact guide covering the best of this scenic wilderness reserve, including Fairmont Banff Springs, Sunshine Meadows, Lake Louise, and Cascade Gardens. Travel writer and photographer Andrew Hempstead offers his firsthand advice on what sights are must-sees, and sightseeing highlight maps make planning your time easy. This lightweight guide is packed with recommendations on sights, entertainment, shopping, recreation, accommodations, food, and transportation. Helpful maps guide travelers through this vast, picturesque destination.

Biography/Memoir

Switchbacks: True Stories from the Canadian Rockies (Paperback) by Sid Marty
In "Switchbacks, Sid Marty draws on his own memories and those of friends and former colleagues in relating a series of true mountain tales. Among his subjects are: the old guide who built a staircase up a cliff; the stranded snowshoer who was rescued between rounds of beer in a Banff tavern; the man who catered to hungry grizzlies; an opinionated packrat with a gift for larceny; and a horse named Candy whose heart was as big as a stove.

Equitrekking Coffee Table Companion Book & DVD

Equitrekking Travel Adventures on Horseback by Darley Newman with Photographs by Chip Ward available at Amazon.com
This companion to the PBS TV series, Equitrekking, proves that the world's most beautiful views are often best seen from atop a horse. This gorgeous book features dozens of scenic rides in the U.S. and around the globe. Denver Post review: For horse folk and dreamers, as well as fans of the show, it's a beautiful trip through stunning equestrian-friendly possibilities.



Equitrekking DVD's featuring Emmy winning PBS episodes, available in the Shop section of Equitrekking.com 

Get off the beaten path to see some of the world's most beautiful horses and classic riding destinations with host and equestrian travel expert Darley Newman with Emmy Award-winning Equitrekking, the horseback riding travel series on PBS. 

Season One: Vermont, the Carolinas, Georgia Coast, Wyoming, Colorado and Spain.

Season Two: Iceland, Coastal Ireland, Hawaii's Big Island, Irish Countryside, Maui, Virginia Hunt Country and California Wine Country.

Season Three: Arizona, Belize, Costa Rica, Kentucky, Quebec, Texas and Utah.

Season Four: Southern Spain, Alaska, Central Turkey, Quebec City and Beyond, Scotland and Wales.

    

Good Books for Horse Lovers and Equestrians

Animals in Translation: Using the Mysteries of Autism to Decode Animal Behavior (Paperback) by Temple Grandin
Philosophers and scientists have long wondered what goes on in the minds of animals, and this fascinating study gives a wealth of illuminating insights into that mystery. ---Publishers Weekly

The Horse: A Miscellany of Equine Knowledge (Hardcover) by Julie Whitaker with Ian Whitelaw
The Horse is an informative gallop through everything to do with the horse:  evolution, history, biology, breeds, behavior, training, competition, health, and care—all gathered into an accessible gallery of solid information, essential facts, and fascinating trivia.                                                           

Hunter Seat Equitation (Hardcover) by George H. Morris
A classic by a world-renowned teacher and master equestrian--the definitive work on the art of teaching and riding the hunter seat, now updated to include refinements in Morris's insightful program of riding instruction.

The New Encyclopedia of the Horse (Hardcover) by Elwyn Hartley Edwards
Chronicling the history of the horse, this guide encompasses the early domestication of the horse, classical riding styles, as well as a survey of the great stud farms and current international sporting events.