Sundance Explorer – 2 Nights
Guaranteed departure. This tour runs as scheduled with no minimum group size — book with confidence, it won’t be cancelled for low numbers.
Overview
This adventure takes you along the glacier-fed waters of the Bow River, one of the best spots in Banff to spot elk, deer or even moose roaming along the shores. Follow the historic Strom Pack Trail, travelled by renowned explorer Erling Strom in the early 1900s, while taking in awe-evoking views of the Sundance mountain range.
At night, the cozy Sundance Lodge gives you a surprisingly comfortable spot to rest your head. Snuggle by the fire, devour gourmet backcountry cuisine and swap tales about the day’s adventures with your fellow riders.
Highlights
The best parts of the tour for most people include the following:
Sundance Lodge
Strom Pack Trail
The Bow RiverItinerary
What each day of your trip looks like, from saddle-up to the ride home.
- 1
Backcountry ride to Sundance Lodge
Your adventure begins at 9:30 AM with check-in at the backcountry office in the large barn at Banff Trail Riders Stables (please do not arrive earlier than 9:30 AM). Complimentary parking is available at the stables, and you're welcome to leave your vehicle here for the duration of your trip.
After check-in, you'll meet your guides, receive your slicker and saddlebags, and be introduced to the horse carefully selected for you. Before setting out, your guides will provide a riding orientation and answer any questions. Whether it's your first time in the saddle or you've ridden before, we'll make sure you're comfortable and confident before you hit the trail. Things tend to run on "Western Time," so don't worry if you don't leave exactly on schedule—you'll have plenty of time to get acquainted with your horse.
Once everyone is ready, you'll saddle up for the 10-mile ride to Sundance Lodge, following scenic trails along the glacier-fed Bow River, Brewster Creek, and Healy Creek. Midway through the journey, you'll stop to enjoy a hearty hot lunch beside the river.
You'll arrive at Sundance Lodge in the late afternoon, where you'll be welcomed by your lodge host with a hot cup of tea or coffee. Settle into your room, enjoy a warm shower, and relax before gathering for a delicious home-cooked dinner. Spend the evening unwinding in the cozy lodge, sharing stories with your fellow riders, and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of Banff's backcountry.
- 2
Day ride in the backcountry
Cuddled in your cozy bed at Sundance Lodge, you’ll wake up to the rays of the morning sun streaming in through your window. After a hearty breakfast you can leave your belongings at the lodge and set off unencumbered for a ride deeper into the backcountry with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
On today’s ride you’ll catch a glimpse of the enormous Brewster Glacier and the rock faces of the Sundance Range as you ride along the footsteps of the original pioneers. We will stop for lunch along the trail and enjoy an open-air picnic in this unforgettable setting.
At the end of the day, you’ll return to your familiar room at Sundance Lodge, where you already feel comfortable and at home. As the sun sets behind the mountains, you can sit back on the deck and relax, drink wine and share stories and photos with your fellow adventurers.
- 3
Return to Warner Stables
Sundance Lodge is an island of comfort and elegance in an ocean of wilderness, a place where you can admire the rugged beauty of the backcountry while wrapped in soft blankets and sipping from a mug of hot tea.
It’s your last morning at Sundance, which is starting to feel like home thanks to the warm hospitality of your host. Be sure to take a few last photos to capture the moment as you prepare to hit the trail again.
Wave goodbye as you and your horse saunter back to Banff Trail Riders Stables. It’s another gorgeous full day of riding through wooded hillsides and winding river trails with the soaring craggy peaks of the Rockies as a backdrop. You’ll refuel with a lunch stop along the banks of Healy Creek, where we will enjoy sandwiches, fresh-baked goodies and fruit.
We’ll arrive back at approximately 4:30 pm. This two night journey is a great way to experience the unspoiled wilderness of Banff on horseback, even if you are only staying for a short time.
Tour Details
Included
- 2x nights accommodation
- Small group size (up to 6 guests per guide)
- A friendly horse for every rider
- Basic horseback riding instruction
- Trail fees
- Helmet
Frequently Asked Questions
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Booking Terms
- Rates are based on double occupancy and a single room supplement is available for an additional fee.
- Riders must be at least 9 years old.
- Riders aged 17 and under must be accompanied on the ride by a legal guardian.
- Riders must weigh less than 230lbs / 104kg, fully dressed (your weight may need to be verified on our scales).
- Riders must wear fully enclosed shoes (no heels).
- Each rider must be able to speak and understand fluent English.
- Riders must be in good physical condition.
- Helmets are mandatory and to be worn by all riders under 18 years. Helmets are optional but recommended for riders aged 18 years and over.
- All adult riders must sign a waiver prior to the tour. A waiver must also be completed by the parent or legal guardian of any rider under the age of 18 (documentation may be required to confirm the signatory’s authority).
- All backcountry trips are subject to a 60 day cancellation & change policy.
- Photo ID may be required for identity verification.
- Refunds are not issued if guests are disqualified from riding due to not meeting these requirements.
What Our Guests Are Saying
Real, verified reviews from guests who explored the Canadian Rockies with us.