The one-hour trail ride is the simplest way to get on a horse in Banff, and it has the reviews to prove it is popular, with several hundred travellers rating it. The ride starts at the Banff Trail Riders stables on Sundance Road, just outside the townsite, and follows a trail along the Bow River or the Spray River depending on the option you book; the Bow River option includes a route toward the natural sulphur hot springs on the edge of town. A guide leads and another rides at the back, groups are capped at twelve travellers, and the guide tells stories of the park and its history as you go. The price includes the horse, a helmet, basic riding instruction and the guides, plus hotel pick-up and drop-off, and it is aimed squarely at beginners: the pace is a walk, and no experience is needed. Season is not stated on the booking page, but reviews run from late spring through autumn, so treat it as a warm-season outing and check dates when you book, particularly in November when the stables turn their attention to winter sleigh rides. Check-in is thirty minutes before the ride, and late arrivals cannot be accommodated, so arrive early and allow time for the paperwork.
The strict rules matter here and are worth reading before you commit. The minimum age is eight, riders under eighteen must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and ride their own horse, and the maximum rider weight is 230 pounds, or about 104 kilograms, which the operator enforces at check-in. Riders must wear a helmet, long trousers and closed-toe shoes that cover the ankle, and they must be able to control a horse without assistance.
The ride is not suited to riders with disabilities or special needs, and it is not recommended for pregnant travellers. Check all of this in the booking details and be honest about weight and fitness, because refunds are not guaranteed if you are turned away.
What you get is a gentle hour in the saddle with mountain scenery, a little history and the pleasure of the horse's pace. The Bow River trail passes through forest and open meadow near the river, and you may see wildlife, although sightings are never promised. Keep a backpack at home, since bags are not allowed on the ride, and wear layers: the stables can be warm in the sun and cool by the water.
Photographs are best taken at the start and end, when you are on the ground with the stables and the mountains behind you.
If you want more time in the saddle, there are longer rides from the same stables, including a two-hour option and a four-hour ride on Sulphur Mountain. If you prefer a seated experience, the covered wagon ride with a cookout and the winter sleigh ride cover the same ground at a slower pace.
For first-timers with a flexible schedule, the one-hour ride is a good introduction, and it combines well with a gondola ride or a soak at the Upper Hot Springs in the same day. Book ahead for summer weekends and holidays, when the small groups fill early.
What to expect
The experience
A one-hour guided horseback ride in groups of up to twelve from the Banff Trail Riders stables on Sundance Road, along the Bow River or the Spray River depending on the option you book.
Best time
Warm months; reviews run from late spring to autumn. The booking page states no season, so check dates when you book, especially in November.
How long
One hour on the horse; check in thirty minutes beforehand.
Tips
Arrive at least thirty minutes early; late arrivals are not accommodated. Wear long trousers, closed shoes and layers. Check the age and weight limits when you book.
Quick picks
- Best for
- First-time riders and families with children aged eight and up who want a short, gentle ride.
- Families
- Minimum age is eight; children must ride their own horse with a parent or guardian present.
- Couples
- A relaxed hour along the river before dinner in town.
- Pair with
- A soak at the Upper Hot Springs, or the Banff Gondola the same day.
- Time needed
- Allow two hours including check-in and hotel transfers.
Good questions
What are the age and weight limits?+
The minimum age is eight, and riders under eighteen must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The maximum weight is 230 pounds (104 kg), enforced at check-in.
Do I need riding experience?+
No. The ride is for beginners and moves at a walk, but riders must be able to control the horse without assistance.
What should I wear?+
Long trousers, closed-toe shoes that cover the ankle and layers for the weather. A helmet is provided and mandatory. Leave backpacks behind.
Where do I check in?+
At the Banff Trail Riders stables on Sundance Road, thirty minutes before your ride. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included.
Does it run in winter?+
The booking page does not state a season and reviews run from late spring to autumn. In winter the stables offer sleigh rides; check dates when you book.
