Trail Ride to Palliser Pass

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Trail Riders of the Canadian Rockies

Step into the heart of the Rocky Mountains on this unforgettable 5-day backcountry riding adventure. The pass is in the seldom visited south end of world famous Banff National Park with towering peaks, shimmering lakes, alpine meadows, and wildlife-rich valleys.

Your all-inclusive journey begins at the Acclaim Hotel in Calgary where you will be transported to the trailhead at Mount Shark. After a warm welcome, horse assignment, and a short orientation, the adventure starts with a rewarding six-hour ride up the Spray River Valley to your base camp.

Each day brings a new horizon—riding over dramatic passes, weaving through quiet, rugged forest trails, or taking in panoramic viewpoints that few travellers ever get to see. There are plenty of breaks for photos, storytelling, and picnic lunches. And on warm days? Slip off your boots and take a refreshing dip in pristine, secluded mountain lakes.

Destinations will include Leman Lake, Palliser Pass, Burstall Pass and more.

Your backcountry camp offers a perfect balance of rustic living and real comfort. Sleep in spacious canvas tents with sturdy cots, and savour hearty, home-cooked meals. Gather in the dining tent for shared meals and stories, then unwind by the fire as the stars begin to glow above the peaks.

Every day is its own adventure—ride, hike, photograph, linger by the river, or simply sit back and soak up the mountain sun. And each evening, there’s no better way to wrap up the day than a lively singsong around the campfire before turning in under the crisp alpine night sky.

LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY

Ideal for intermediate to advanced riders.
Beginners, please discuss with us first.

ACCOMMODATION

Enjoy the rustic charm of a traditional backcountry camp, complete with warm hospitality from our experienced guiding outfitter, hearty cowboy-style meals, and relaxed evening entertainment.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Venture deep into the wild backcountry of Banff National Park
Stay in comfortable, weatherproof canvas tents at a scenic mountain campsite. Five days riding, 4 nights backcountry camping.
Ride some of the most dramatic and celebrated trails in North America
Summit breathtaking mountain passes, wander through wildflower-filled meadows, and follow crystal-clear rivers and streams

“What an amazing week! Horses were great – energetic, confident and sure-footed. Guides were amazing, generously sharing their vast knowledge of the Rockies, the prairies and trail riding. All around an 11/10!”

BethVancouver, B.C.

“This trip was a dream come true. My friend and I spent a lot of time planning and preparing for this adventure, and we’re so happy that we finally did it. If there’s a little cowgirl/boy deep inside of you, I highly recommend that you give them life before the chance gets away from you. Highly recommended!”

AJ Italian Alps, Italy

“The whole experience far surpassed my expectations: the scenery was spectacular; the horses were steadfast and well cared for; the other riders were lots of fun and full of enthusiasm; the Emcee, trail leaders, and guest speakers were very knowledgeable; the food was great; the list could go on. I will definitely return next year!”

wils0n17Oshawa, Canada

“So many good people are involved to make this a truly wonderful memory… but for me I was not disappointed with anything the rustic accommodation the food the horses the people the scenery all of it just the best time. Recommend highly.”

moonsyBrisbane, Australia

“5 days of riding wonderfully trained horses, Sleeping on cots in a teepee, scrumptious food, fantastic evening entertainment couldn’t ask for a more awesome adventure. Leave the city and stress behind, come on a ride with this great club!”

T3505NWpatrickmSan Jose, California

“My experience with the TRCR is one that I will never forget. I was given a special gift to go horseback riding, and I could not refuse. I would recommend this wonderful riding vacation to everyone!”

fi0nagtBeaconsfield, Canada

Challenging, rustic, and rewarding!

Just as our photographs couldn’t capture the majesty of the mountains through which we rode, it’s impossible to adequately describe the TRCR experience in a “snapshot” review. In July of 2017, after much anticipation, I rode with my two sisters on a six-day adventure. The trip exceeded my expectations in every way. Once my initial anxiety over riding again was quelled, I was free to enjoy vistas only accessible by hiking or on horseback: wildflower-rich prairies, breathtaking peaks, glacial tarns, ever-present wildlife, and awe-inspiring vantage points. The company was congenial, the food hearty and delicious, the cultural and historical lessons amazing, the fun contagious, and the experience…absolutely memorable. I recommend it unreservedly.

Joan V

“I was so excited to complete a bucket list item the first time, had a lifelong experience the second time and can’t wait for the third time in 2018!! I might add that I have not laughed this hard in years!! New friends for life!”

June J

“If you are looking for a fantastic outdoor adventure, this is it.
If you are looking to do and see things that love never dreamed of, this is it.
If you are looking to be around some amazing people and be cared for like family, this is it.

Thanks for making our family vacation a memorable one.”

David T

“You don’t have to be an expert rider to be awe-inspired by the great horses and scenery you will enjoy each day. As one of our ride companions said, you get to feel a teensy bit like a cowboy, and who doesn’t want that??”

250waaNanaimo, Canada

“If you are looking for something different with some challenge and the most breathtaking vistas you will ever see then do this trip. The TRCR staff is fantastic, the food is delicious and plentiful and the experience will absolutely change your life. We will be returning next year and many more.”

JimandMelissaBMiddletown, Connecticut, USA

“We enjoyed our annual horseback rides in the Canadian Rockies for thirteen years. Each year we did not think it could get better, but it usually did. If you enjoy an outback adventure to see breathtaking panoramic vistas from the back of a horse and meeting new people from around the world, you will LOVE riding with TRCR. Food and accommodations were amazing in the wilderness!!!”

Jean203Goode, Virgina

“This ENTIRE adventure was more than we ever expected. More than a dream but a life long satisfaction. WE WILL BE BACK!!”

June and ScottOrlando, Florida

“We just completed a terrific week with the TRCR. We would never have been able to access this fantastic country if it were not for this organization. One of our best vacations ever!”

JanLondon, Ontario

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