Banff is home to some of the most dazzling wild wonders in the world, and how better to view mother nature's creations than from the back of a horse?

Horse riding tours in Banff come in all shapes and sizes. You can learn how to trot, gallop and canter along the banks of a vivid teal river or cozy up in a sleigh for a magical ride through the snow-dusted region.

Whether you're a total beginner or a complete pro, there's a horse riding tour to suit your needs.

Here's all you need to know about horse riding tours, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Banff.

What are the best horse riding tours in Banff?

Bow River horse riding tour

Those who want to explore the nature that surrounds Banff town can do so on a guided horse riding tour around Bow Lake.

Itinerary

Before leaving Banff, you'll meet your four-legged friend and learn the basics of horse riding from your knowledgeable guide. On horseback, you'll trot along the meandering Bow River toward the Cave and Basin Hot Springs.

This historic site is where the Banff National Park originated after being discovered by railway workers in the late 19th century.

As you travel along the Bow River at a leisurely pace, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the towering peaks, verdant meadows and azure waters that surround you.

You’ll also be able to seek out the wildlife that calls this part of Banff National Park home, including bald eagles, elk and beavers.

Horse-drawn sleigh ride in Banff

Those traveling to Banff during the colder months can select a magical sleigh ride through the winter wonderland.

Itinerary

Meet the pair of friendly horses that will be guiding you through the snow before climbing aboard your vehicle and embarking on an enchanting adventure around Banff.

Snuggle up under a blanket with your loved ones as you marvel at the snow-capped mountains and frosty pine trees along your route.

As you move through the wilderness, your guide will keep you entertained with tales of the area and help you to spot any wildlife that wanders past.

Among the creatures you may see are bighorn sheep, elk and black bears, all of which are most active at dawn, and dusk. As your sleigh ride draws to a close, you'll extend the magic by drinking hot cocoa around a roaring fire.

Spray River horse riding tour

Alternatively, opt for a horse riding tour along the Spray River, passing by several of Banff’s most iconic sites.

Itinerary

As you guide your majestic horse along, you'll reach the thundering Bow Falls, which featured in the 1952 movie "River of No Return" starring Marilyn Monroe.

Despite the small drop from just 9 meters, Bow Falls is a tourist hot spot, because of its natural beauty and close proximity to Banff town.

Carrying on, you'll see the Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course, which is known to be one of the most picturesque putting spots in the world.

Here, you’ll find perfectly-manicured lawns in between soaring conifers on the edge of the turquoise Spray River.

Moving on, you’ll ascend part of Sulphur Mountain, from which you can gain an elevated view of Banff National Park. After an hour of exploring the area surrounding Banff on horseback, you'll return to the ski town where your tour ends.

2-Day horse riding tour in Banff

Immerse yourself in the wilderness of Banff National Park, seeking out secret spots and embracing simplicity on this 2-day horse riding tour.

Itinerary

On the first day of your horse riding tour in Banff, you'll get acquainted with your equine friend and begin a 16-kilometer ride through the backcountry of Banff.

Along the way, you'll stop to enjoy a simple yet delicious lunch along the river before continuing on to a charming lodge. Spend the remainder of the day resting, dining on mouthwatering local fare and unwinding from your regular routine.

After a peaceful night of undisturbed slumber, you'll spend a relaxing morning eating breakfast, admiring the views and lazing around. Then, begin the journey back to Banff on horseback, traveling past mountainscapes, forests and meadows.

In order to prolong the experience, you'll once again stop at a scenic spot on the banks of the river to dine on a prepared lunch while listening to the soothing sounds of gushing water.

How much do horse riding tours in Banff cost?

Horse riding tours in Banff begin at US$40 per person for a sleigh ride.

If you want to learn how to trot sufficiently, you can choose a tour that enables you to ride a horse along one of the picturesque rivers outside of town for approximately US$70 each.

A combination tour that includes a wagon ride and western cookout costs around US$100 per person, while 2-day excursions cost between US$600, and US$620 each.

What is included in a horse riding tour in Banff?

Riding tours in Banff have different inclusions, depending on whether you'll be guiding a horse yourself or not.

On a sleigh ride, you'll be supplied with a warm blanket to keep cozy and led by a professional driver. A wagon ride provides you with a gourmet barbecue lunch, as well as themed games.

If you choose to ride a horse yourself on one of the river tours, you can expect all safety and riding equipment to be provided. You'll also have an expert guide on hand and your own horse for the duration of the activity.

A multi-day tour includes comfortable accommodation, as well as all meals. You'll also have the opportunity to purchase alcoholic beverages at your own expense.

Where do horse riding tours in Banff start?

Most horse riding tours in Banff request you to meet at the operator's stables, where you'll have a briefing and begin your adventure.

However, some tours have a starting point at an easy-to-reach location in the heart of Banff. You'll be able to see the meeting point of each tour before booking so that you can arrange any necessary transportation ahead of time.

How long do horse riding tours in Banff last?

Horse riding tours in Banff vary significantly in duration, from an hour to two days.

If you're short on time, you should choose a horse riding trip along one of the rivers outside the ski town or a horse-drawn sleigh ride around the countryside, both of which last an hour or less.

Those with a little longer to dedicate to the activity can choose a wagon ride and cookout, which lasts 3 hours, while those looking to fill a couple of days should opt for an overnight tour, and stay at a cabin in the wilderness.

When is the best time for a horse riding tour in Banff?

The best time to participate in a horse riding tour in Banff really depends on the type of experience you're seeking. Sleigh rides only run during the winter months when the ground is covered with snow.

However, all other excursions are only available during the summer season. Some tours open their bookings from the end of April and continue until October.

While others start the season at the end of May, and shut down for the winter in September, so you should double-check which excursions are available during your vacation.

These trips happen throughout the day and many allow you to select from several time slots, making horse riding an easy activity to fit into your itinerary.

Plan this excursion for a few days into your trip, once you have explored the center of Banff and the main highlights of the national park, such as Lake Louise, and Icefield Parkway.

Are there any combo available with horse riding tours in Banff?

Wagon ride in Banff with a western cookout

If you're searching for a unique experience in Banff, why not participate in a historic wagon ride?

Sitting comfortably in your horse-drawn vehicle, you'll be transported through Banff National Park, spotting wildlife and marveling at the scenery along the way.

Reaching a cabin in the middle of the wilderness, you'll tuck into a feast of barbecue food and let your hair down as you play cowboy-themed games. After a fun-filled few hours, you'll return to Banff to continue with the rest of your vacation.

Is it safe?

Horse riding tours in Banff are completely safe as you'll always have an expert on hand to help if needed.

They will teach you how to ride before you embark on your adventure and provide you with safety equipment to protect you in the unlikely event of an accident.

While these tours are safe and enjoyable for most participants, you need to have a certain level of physical fitness in order to control your horse.

Pregnant persons are not recommended to participate in riding themselves, although they are welcomed on sleigh and wagon rides.

Are children allowed?

Horse riding tours all have their own regulations around children participating. If you opt for a 2-day horse riding experience, you'll find that only children aged 9 and over are allowed to join in as they will be controlling their own horse.

Horseback riding excursions along the Bow or Spray River have a minimum age requirement of 8 years old, while horse-drawn sleigh rides and wagon rides are suitable for the whole family.

Parents will often be required to sign a waiver, adopting responsibility for any adolescents under their care. You should check whether there are any age limitations on your tour of choice before booking.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Horseback riding tours in Banff require fair weather in order to operate. The weather surrounding the town can change quickly and if you're unlucky enough to get caught in unfavorable conditions.

Your tour will be rebooked for another day of your trip. If this doesn't suit your plans, you can request a full refund from your tour provider.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Banff?

• Bike Tours in Banff
• Canyoning adventures in Banff
• Wildlife tours in Banff
• Rafting Tours in Banff
• Hiking tours in Banff
• ATV Tours & Quad Biking in Banff

Travel tips

• Riding tours in Banff usually have maximum weight restrictions of 104 kilograms in place for the health of the horse. Check whether this concerns you before booking.
• Depending on the type of tour you participate in, you may be required to wear long pants and close-toed shoes for your own protection.
• Be advised that most tour providers ask you to arrive at the meeting point 5-15 minutes before the start of your excursion.