About Banff Trail Riders
Banff Trail Riders is the oldest horseback riding outfitter in Banff National Park, operating under a Parks Canada heritage permit that grants exclusive access to some of the most spectacular backcountry trails in the Canadian Rockies. Their corrals are located near the Banff Springs Hotel, and rides depart directly into the national park, following trails along the Bow River, through old-growth forest, and up to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Bow Valley and surrounding peaks.
The ride options range from one-hour introductory trail rides to half-day excursions that climb into the alpine meadows above Sulphur Mountain, and multi-day pack trips that venture deep into the backcountry with overnight stays at remote wilderness lodges. All rides are guided by experienced wranglers who share the natural and cultural history of the park, and the horses are well-trained trail mounts suited to riders of all experience levels. Cowboy cookout evening rides combine a scenic ride with a campfire steak dinner under the stars.
In winter, the company transitions to horse-drawn sleigh rides along the frozen Bow River, offering a magical way to experience Banff's snow-covered landscape. The operation is committed to sustainable tourism within the national park framework, following strict trail-use guidelines that minimize impact on the fragile montane ecosystem. With a heritage that stretches back over a century, Banff Trail Riders offers an authentically Canadian way to explore one of the world's most famous national parks.
