Kananaskis Country is the big mountain playground just west of Calgary, and in winter it turns into a quiet, snow-covered landscape that is perfect for a traditional sleigh ride. This short, shared ride takes you behind a team through the snow with peaks around you and the sound of bells and hooves rather than engines. It lasts about half an hour, which is long enough to feel the cold air and take in the scenery without needing a whole day. Warm blankets are usually provided, and the guide explains the setting and the animals. It is an easy, family-friendly way to enjoy a winter day and works for all ages and abilities.
What to expect
The sleigh seats a group of passengers, and the horses pull it along a prepared trail in the foothills. The ride is smooth and slow, so you can look around, take photographs and listen to the guide, and children are often fascinated by the horses.
Conditions depend on snow cover, so the activity runs in the winter season only, and your date may be changed if the weather or trail conditions are poor. The area around Kananaskis offers wildlife, including deer and elk, and on a clear day the mountain views are superb.
Practical planning
Dress warmly in layers, with a hat, gloves, scarves and insulated boots, because the air on the open sleigh can be much colder than in the city. Hand warmers are a useful addition. Allow time for the drive from Calgary, which is typically around an hour or more depending on the starting point and road conditions, and check forecasts for snow and wind before you set off.
Winter driving in the foothills requires proper tyres and caution, and roads can be icy, so if you are not comfortable driving in snow, consider combining the ride with a tour that provides transport. Arrive early for check-in, and book a morning or early afternoon slot to make the most of the daylight.
How it fits
A half-hour ride does not fill a day, so combine it with other things in the area, such as a winter walk, lunch in a nearby village or a stop at a scenic viewpoint. It pairs well with the river-rafting season in summer as the cold-weather counterpart, and it makes a delightful treat for visiting grandparents or young children.
If you are in Calgary in December or January, it can be part of a festive itinerary alongside the zoo lights and the city skating rinks. Outside winter, look instead at the hiking and rafting options in Kananaskis, because the sleigh ride does not operate without snow.
A few extra tips
Bring a thermos of something hot for the drive and for the wait before your slot, and keep your camera or phone in an inside pocket so that the battery stays warm. Sunglasses help on bright snowy days, and a neck warmer is more comfortable than a scarf on an open sleigh. Children who are shy of horses can keep a little distance, as the animals are calm. Check your departure time carefully, because late arrivals cannot always be accommodated.
What to expect
The experience
A 30-minute shared horse-drawn sleigh ride through snowy Kananaskis Country.
Best time
Winter days with good snow cover, ideally in the morning or early afternoon.
How long
About 30 minutes on the sleigh, plus travel time.
Tips
Dress in warm layers, bring hand warmers and check road and weather conditions before driving.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and couples who want a gentle winter experience.
- Families
- Excellent: short, slow and magical for young children.
- Couples
- A romantic winter outing with mountain views.
- Pair with
- A winter walk or lunch in the foothills.
- Time needed
- Half a day including travel.
Good questions
When does the sleigh ride run?+
In winter only, when there is enough snow on the trail.
How long is the ride?+
About half an hour.
Will I be warm enough?+
Dress in layers, with hat, gloves and insulated boots. Blankets are usually provided.
Is it suitable for young children?+
Yes, the pace is gentle and children usually love the horses.
How far is Kananaskis from Calgary?+
Roughly an hour or more by road, depending on the starting point and conditions.
