Canada’s Rocky Mountains are THE most remarkable globetrotting playground. With unspeakably awe-inspiring scenery, incredibly diverse trails, unique wildlife encounters, savvy horses and wonderful local guides, this ride ticks EVERY box.
Each day brings new trails to discover astride a fit, agile, mountain-bred horse. Prepare to be swept up in the otherworldly beauty that reveals itself at every turn. You’ll think it can’t possibly get any more magnificent – and then it does!
Your hosts, the MacLaine family, are based in the foothills of the Rockies in Kananaskis country, Alberta. From the moment you arrive at their homely ranch, you’ll be treated to the very best Canadian hospitality. There are several riding itineraries on offer covering not just the Rocky Mountains, but also the prairies and foothills of southern Alberta. The rides combine cosy lodge accommodation with rustic camping in some truly heart-throbbing locations.
Make no mistake: these are hands-on adventures where you’ll be feeding, grooming and saddling your own horse. Your gear will be carried by packhorses, allowing you to explore some seriously remote backcountry. Although packhorse days tend to be slower, rest assured there will still be opportunities to trot and canter. Bring it ON!
Whether you’re an intermediate or an advanced rider, whether you stay for six days or ten, the Rocky Mountains will capture your heart.
Fast Facts
- Horse Breed:Many breeds including Canadian, Quarter Horse, Paint, Arabian, Morgan, Welsh, Percheron & draft.
- Pace:Variable depending on the terrain, with opportunities to trot and canter.
- Weight Limit:A maximum of 100kg / 220lbs. *Please contact us if you’re above this weight for a further assessment.
- Type of tack:Western saddles, snaffle bits and split reins.
- Seasons:June through to early October.
- Group size:A minimum of 4 and maximum of 8 guests.
- Time in Saddle:(Average per day)
Forgetmenot, Tombstone Loop, Fall Spectacular & Mountain Prairie Combo: 4-8 hours.
Kananaskis Longrider: 4-7 hours.
Both Sides of the Great Divide: 2-8 hours.
Alberta Drifter: 2-8 hours (possibly longer on some days, depending on trail & weather conditions). - Riding Ability:Suitable for intermediate to advanced riders.
*A high level of fitness is recommended for the Kananaskis Longrider.
**Please be advised, this is a hands-on riding experience. You will be expected to look after your horse while on the trail, including attending to grooming, saddling and bridling duties. For those accustomed to handing your horse to a groom, this might not be the right riding holiday for you. Not sure what your riding ability is? Watch THIS video to find out. - Accommodation:All pack trips see guests spending a night or two at the ranch in ‘The Barn’ - a guest house which has 5 rooms (twin share arrangements) and two shared bathrooms, plus a common area with plenty of comfortable seating choices as well as a large dining table and kitchen.
When out on the trail you’ll enjoy the simplicity of basic camping with dome or canvas tents (twin share). There are no showers, unless you wish to take a refreshing dip if camped near a river or lake. And the toilet will be a hole dug in the ground with a canvas barrier for privacy. - Ride Length:There are 7 day, 6 night; 8 day, 7 night; and 10 day, 9 night itineraries available.
- Inclusions:
The price includes 5% Canadian goods & services tax; round trip transfers from Calgary Airport or hotel on first and last days of the ride at set times; twin share accommodation; all meals, from first day dinner through to last day breakfast (NB: There is a surcharge of $10 CAD per day for gluten free and dairy free diets); all riding activities.
- Exclusions:
The price excludes international flights, travel insurance; staff tips (please budget for at least 5-10% of the ride price); alcoholic beverages (BYO is welcome).
DEPARTURE DATES & RATES
NEW! Secure your saddle seat NOW with a 10% deposit - as part of our 10x 10% payment plan!Please note: no single supplement available when camping in tents, this is twin share only.
$50 CAD per night surcharge applies for single occupancy when at the lodge.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE RIDE PRICE?
The price includes 5% Canadian goods & services tax; round trip transfers from Calgary Airport or hotel on first and last days of the ride at set times; twin share accommodation; all meals, from first day dinner through to last day breakfast (NB: There is a surcharge of $10 CAD per day for gluten free and dairy free diets); all riding activities.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RIDE PRICE?
The price excludes international flights, travel insurance; staff tips (please budget for at least 5-10% of the ride price); alcoholic beverages (BYO is welcome).
Accepted payment is by credit or debit card only. There is a 2% surcharge on all card payments. Click HERE to read our recommendations on which cards are best to use to avoid international transaction fees.
WHY IS THE PRICE QUOTED IN CAD?
With our riding destinations, the currency is dictated by our ride partner in that country. Therefore due to fluctuating exchange rates we have to quote in the same currency.
Itinerary
Expand AllCollapse All*Please note, this is a suggested itinerary only and subject to change at the discretion of your guides due to weather and other influencing factors.
**With so many trails and places to visit, it is impossible to list them all. This is just a sample of what it is possible to experience on our riding holidays in the Rocky Mountains. There are many variations and possibilities.

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Forgetmenot
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Tombstone Loop
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Kananaskis Longrider
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Mountain Prairie Combo
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Alberta Drifter
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Fall Spectacular
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Both Sides of the Great Divide
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Transfer Information

Catherine Dimaline
‘This was my first ever solo trip due to personal circumstances. I hovered over the computer thinking it’s always been a dream, do I? Let me say, I am so pleased I hit that ‘yes’ button! The team at Globetrotting were super professional and helpful, and the riding experience was simply just WOW. It exceeded all my expectations. A lovely family business that made us very welcome, the horses were matched perfectly, and the countryside was just breathtaking. We enjoyed good food and chats over a campfire until we retired to our tents. We were in great hands with Robert and Jackie and thank them enormously for a fantastic time. Would I recommend this experience? Hell yes!’