What to Bring
Clothing, footwear, for sleeping and accessories.
We are riding at high altitudes in the Rocky Mountains and the weather can vary from warm sunshine, to sudden downpours, to cold wet snow. Trail Riders can encounter temperatures ranging from +5°C (41°F) to +25°C (77°F) during the day, and from +10°C (50°F) to ‐5°C (23°F) during the night, depending on the weather. We suggest the following list of articles to bring so you will be warm and comfortable, regardless of the climate.
Clothing
The main idea is to dress in layers:
- A cowboy hat, or something to keep the sun off of you
- Rain Hat
- Helmets are mandatory for all minors and on certain rides (check the ride description)
- Warm Coat
- Heavy Sweater or Vest
- Light Jacket
- Rain Slicker or Rain Suit. Light plastic or vinyl capes will not do! Do not bring ponchos (these have a tendency to flap in the breeze and can spook the horses). Keep your rain gear with you at all times!
- Riding Chaps (optional)
- Warm gloves
- Extra Jeans
- Extra Shirts
- Extra Socks
- Extra Underwear
Footwear
- Cowboy boots, ropers or boots with a heel (make sure they are comfortable as you may be walking on the trail as well)
- Light Shoes or Sneakers (for camp)
- Hiking boots for those hikes around camp or at lunch breaks (carry in your saddle bags)
For safety purposes helmets are mandatory to be worn by all backcountry riders under 18 years of age. Helmets are optional but recommended for backcountry riders aged 18 years and over.
For Sleeping
- Sleeping Bag (suitable for ‐10°C or 5°F) – NOT REQUIRED FOR LODGE TRIPS
- Pillow (optional) – NOT REQUIRED FOR LODGE TRIPS
- Woollen toque (ski hat) and Socks
- Long Underwear
- Sweat Suit with Hood
Accessories
- Personal Medications (it’s a long ride to the nearest drugstore!)
- Camera
- Extra Batteries (you will be taking LOTS of pictures)
- Insect Repellent
- Sunscreen (a must!)
- Personal Toiletries
- Sunglasses
- Bath Towel and Face Cloth
- Flashlight & Extra Batteries
- Facial Tissues
- Soap and Shampoo (biodegradable)
- Something to read
- Small Saddle Bags or Fanny Pack (optional). No backpacks while on a horse!
Please note that there is no electricity at the camps.
The lodges are licensed and offer a selection of beer and wine for sale. For camping rides, you may bring your own selections and pack them within your duffel (no glass please).
Renting Equipment
If you do not want to bring your own equipement (e.g. such as a sleeping bag), you may arrange for rentals from Bactrax (225 Bear Street, Banff). Phone 1-403-763-8177 or visit www.campingbanff.com.
Duffle / Luggage
When packing your gear, keep in mind it is being packed out on a mule and our animal’s comfort is very important. By following these guidelines you can help us ensure that we’re taking care of all our animals.
You must pack your gear in soft-sided, cloth or nylon bag. It cannot have any hard edges, frames or wheels. Your gear is restricted to a total maximum weight of 30 pounds for lodge trips or 40 pounds for camping trips (sleeping bag and your luggage). If you do not have a water-resistant bag, it is a good idea to line the inside with garbage bags in the event of rain. You may pack your sleeping bag separately from your other gear. Saddlebags, rain gear and other essentials that you will need during the day (camera, sunscreen, bug spray, lip balm, extra sweater, water bottle, etc) that you are taking on your horse with you are not included in the 30lb weight restriction.
Duffles or waterproof bags are the best option. Drysacks, favoured by canoers, or a gym bag lined with garbage bags work well.
Your own Horse or Saddle
No, you cannot bring your own horse or saddle …
Notes
For guests traveling by air, you may want to consider packing your cowboy boots, shirt and jeans or any other items for the ride in your carry on. If your luggage gets delayed and it doesn’t arrive in time for your departure, you may look funny wearing swim trunks in the saddle! Saddle bags will be provided by the TRCR.
Candy is a good idea. Bring your joke books and some skit ideas if you like; we do have a selection of cards, games, books, etc. in camp for your leisure. Most importantly, leave your troubles and cares at home and bring your smiles and sense of humour. Be prepared for the “ride of your life” ™
What not to bring!
Please remember that there is no cell coverage or internet in this area!
Reminder to all smokers: there is no smoking on the trail, (at rest areas only) and our polices are fairly strict in camp.
COME RIDE WITH US!
Book now for our upcoming ride or contact us for more information.