Introducing the Erling Strom Lodge Trip:
Banff Trail Riders dates back almost as long as Erling Strom’s early days of exploring the Banff backcountry… well, almost.
Erling Strom was a prominent man in the Bow Valley, operating the (then) Canadian Pacific Railway’s Mount Assiniboine Lodge until 1975. Banff Trail Riders was founded in 1962 so both definitely have crossover, although Erling Strom was certainly exploring the area on his skis long before in the early 1900’s.
Connection with Erling Strom
The connection with Erling Strom at Banff Trail Riders meet with curiosity and convenience. Both curious about what was out there to explore and show guests, and both keen to provide convenience for guests on trips. Halfway Lodge was constructed by Erling Strom in the 1920’s as a stopover spot for guests he led trips with en route from Banff to Mount Assiniboine. Now cared for by Banff Trail Riders, the lodge still serves as a means for accommodation and rest in a comfortable, remote, and peaceful environment for our Banff horseback riding vacations.
Ride to Sundance Lodge
Starting the trip at Warner Horseback Riding Stables in Banff, you’ll meet your guide with a hat and guide with four legs. Both will become like family for you on the trip, both will show you the best of what is in Banff’s backyard, and both the cowboy cowgirl guide and horse create Banff’s best backcountry lodge experience. Are you keen to follow in Erling Strom’s footsteps (or at least his horses)? Read more about the Erling Strom Trail Horseback Riding Trip.
Fresh mountain air, pine trees, wildlife, flowing rivers and creeks, and a gourmet hot lunch beside the water all accompany the journey to the first stop – Sundance Lodge. This is luxury in the backcountry – no sleeping bags, hot dogs, or outhouses here – just delicious meals by the chef, warm showers, and Egyptian cotton sheets in private bedrooms. Sundance Lodge spoils you, but that’s okay – you’re on holidays.
Day 1 rides to Banff’s closest backcountry lodge, and is a great introduction to what lies beyond town, in Sundance Canyon. This ride is nine miles and takes about 6 hours after departing Warner Stables at approximately 9:30 am. Fresh baking, friendly lodge staff, and cold beer will be waiting upon arrival. Relax and enjoy a glass of wine by the fire after a delicious dinner and dessert.
