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A horse-drawn sleigh crossing a snowy meadow beneath Mount Rundle

Banff National Park · Since 1962

Unbridle Your
Sense Of Adventure

Unforgettable riding experience for travellers from all over the world in Banff, Alberta since 1962.

300+ horsesThe only outfitter based in Banff townsite

Our Guides’ Top Picks For Winter

Sleigh Rides Through
Banff’s Mountain Meadows

Explore Winter

The Banff Trail Riders Way

Why Choose Banff Trail Riders

We’re a bunch of cowboys and cowgirls with deep Canadian roots, and we’re inviting you to join us.

Convenient
We’re the only outfitter based right in the Banff townsite.
Experienced
We’ve been around and cowboying in the Rockies since 1962.
Unique
Choose from a wide range of trips—from multi-day treks to easy rides.
Friendly
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned cowboy, we’re always happy to help.
Warner Stables in Banff, home of Banff Trail Riders, beneath Cascade Mountain

Deep Canadian Roots

A Trusted Banff Tradition
For 60+ Years

For generations, guests have explored Banff National Park with us. Our dedication to authentic, memorable experiences—season after season—has earned us thousands of positive reviews and a reputation we’re proud of.

  1. 1923

    A club of 14 backcountry enthusiasts called the Trail Riders of the Canadian Rockies formed.

  2. 1928

    The Halfway Lodge was built at the base of Allenby Pass.

  3. 1960s

    There were three outfitters based at Warner Stables – where we’re located today.

  4. 2014

    Holiday on Horseback became Banff Trail Riders – a new name for a renewed focus on helping travellers explore Banff’s incredible wilderness on horseback.

Before You Ride

Questions Riders Ask

Can you go horseback riding in Banff National Park?

Yes. We're the exclusive horseback riding operator in Banff, and our rides explore Banff National Park, from one-hour rides along the Bow River to multi-day trips to our backcountry lodges.

Is Banff Trail Riders the only horseback outfitter in Banff?

Yes. We're the exclusive horseback riding operator in Banff and the only outfitter based right in the Banff townsite. We're also the only outfitter in the Canadian Rockies with our own lodges inside the national park.

Do I need riding experience?

No experience is necessary. Our guides give everyone a brief riding instruction before the ride, and if you've never ridden before we'll pair you with the right horse for a comfortable ride. All of our rides travel at a walking pace, in single file.

Which ride is best for first-timers?

Our one-hour Bow River Ride is perfect for beginners or anyone short on time. It follows the Bow River past the historic Cave and Basin at a walking pace, with lead and tail guides at each end of the small group. For kids aged 3 to 7, we offer 15-minute pony rides.

Is horseback riding in Banff worth it?

Yes! Horseback riding in Banff is worth it for visitors who want to experience the mountain scenery and forest trails of Banff National Park from the saddle. Banff Trail Riders has been guiding visitors since 1962 and offers guided horseback rides lasting one to four hours. With a Tripadvisor rating of 4.2 out of 5, it’s an established choice for a horseback riding experience in the Canadian Rockies.

How long has Banff Trail Riders been operating?

Our roots date back to 1962, when three outfitters began guiding horseback rides from Warner Stables in Banff. They later joined forces as Holiday on Horseback, adopting the Banff Trail Riders name in 2014. Our rides follow trails first explored by the Trail Riders of the Canadian Rockies in 1923.

Where are the stables, and how far are they from downtown Banff?

Our main stables are the big red barns at the end of Sundance Road in Banff, about a five-minute drive or 20-minute walk from downtown, with plenty of free parking.

Can I walk to the stables from town?

Yes. Banff Trail Riders’ stables on Sundance Road are approximately a 20-minute walk from downtown Banff. Cross the Bow River using the pedestrian footbridge, then follow the riverside path towards Sundance Road and continue to the stables.

Do you offer horseback riding at Lake Louise?

All of our horseback rides start in the town of Banff, at our stables on Sundance Road.

Do you ride in Canmore, or how far is Canmore from you?

No. Banff Trail Riders offers guided horseback riding in the town of Banff, within Banff National Park. Banff is approximately a 30-minute drive from Canmore, making it easy to join a ride while staying in Canmore.

What is the minimum age and the weight limit?

Trail riders must be at least 8 years old, and 9 for backcountry trips. Kids aged 3 to 7 can enjoy our pony rides, and the wagon cookout welcomes all ages. Riders must weigh less than 230 lbs (104 kg) fully dressed, and we will verify weight on our scales at check in.

Will we see wildlife on the trail?

You may well see wildlife. Along the Bow River you might see eagles, hawks, beavers, elk and deer. On the Sundance Canyon Trail, keep an eye out for beaver, elk, coyotes and, occasionally, bears.

Do you offer packages or deals?

Yes. Book a summer trail ride or winter sleigh ride online at least 7 days ahead with promo code ONLINE2SAVE and save 10%. We also offer combo packages, like the Kananaskis River Raft + Horseback Ride. For groups, contact us about group rates.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes. We strongly recommend booking all Banff Trail Riders horseback rides in advance, as departures can sell out. Book early to secure your preferred ride, date, and time. Reservations are required for rides longer than three hours and for cookouts.

Can I buy a gift certificate?

Yes. Choose any amount and we'll email the gift certificate number and redemption code right away. It can be redeemed online or at our reservation store for any summer ride, backcountry trip or winter sleigh ride, and the value never expires. Gift certificates can't be used at our retail store.

What happens if it rains?

Banff Trail Riders’ horseback rides go ahead rain or shine, so please dress for the weather and bring a rain jacket if rain is forecast. Rain ponchos are not permitted, as they can flap in the wind and startle the horses.