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Banff Tours
2-Day Sundance Overnight Backcountry Lodge Trip by Horseback
4.5

2-Day Sundance Overnight Backcountry Lodge Trip by Horseback

By Banff Trail Riders
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Ages 9-90, max of 12 per group
Duration: 2 days
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
More


  • 1 night of accommodation
  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Professional guide
  • Helmets (mandatory for riders under 18 years)
What's not included
  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • Gratuities
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Transportation to/from attractions
  • National Park Entry Fee


Start:
  • Banff Trail Riders - Stables, 100 Sundance Rd, Banff, AB T1L 1B9, Canada
    Banff Trail Riders Stables, -Find us at the end of Sundance Road in Banff. Check-in at the east barn, marked ' Banff Trail Riders Stables' & 'office.' 5 min drive or 20 min walk from downtown with free parking.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    • Not wheelchair accessible
    • Near public transportation
    If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 12217P7

    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Most travelers can participate
    • Minimum age is 9 years. Please note that children will not be paired with an adult – they must ride their own horse.
    • Maximum weight is 230lbs.
    • Adult pricing applies to all riders.
    • For safety purposes helmets are mandatory to be worn by all backcountry riders under 18 years of age.
    • Children aged 17 years and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
    • Adults must sign a waiver for all activities, and a waiver must also be completed by the parent or legal guardian of any person under the age of 18 (documentation may be required to confirm the signatory’s authority).
    • Minimum drinking age is 18 years.
    • Our establishment is located in a remote backcountry area. Due to our unique location, our kitchen operates with limited resources. We are unable to accommodate requests beyond our set menus. Menu Options: Backcountry Deluxe Menu, Vegetarian Menu, Vegan Menu (additional cost), Gluten Free Menu (additional cost)
    • Not recommended for participants with back problems.
    • Not recommended for pregnant women.
    • Not wheelchair accessible.
    • Please dress appropriately as stated on your voucher.
    • There is no electricity, cell service or internet/wifi.
    • All passenger heights, weights, ages, dietary requirements and riding abilities must be advised at time of booking.
    • An understanding of basic English is required so that you can understand simple instructions from the guides.
    • Riders must be physically capable of controlling the horse during the ride without assistance and for the health and safety of all riders we regrettably cannot accommodate any disabilities or special needs riders. We recognize that disabled riding is a unique and respected skill set that we at the barns do not have the appropriate equipment or skills to safely execute.
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers

    • All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.

    If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 12217P7

    From
    $734.92
    per adult
    Select date and travelers

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    About the operator
    Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
    • Banff Trail Riders
      1,233
      Banff, Alberta, Canada
    • janetlynnd
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great wagon ride and BBQ
      Fantastic evening riding on a wagon through the forest to a BBQ. The food was amazing and the staff were lovely. It was cold but then it was October. Blankets provided to help but wrap up warm. We had a great evening. Thank you. Wayne and Luke the horses were beautiful and our cowboys were lovely.
      Written October 14, 2024
    • MDixon1011
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Wagon Ride
      So much fun! Our guides were friendly and knowledgeable. The food and atmosphere was great! We even saw Elk on the way back to the ranch. I highly recommend.
      Written October 8, 2024
    • Quest48991229788
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Odin and Kiwi, awesome horses!!
      We signed up for the 3 hour ride which included the cookout. This was not part of the options above. Now, the signup was easy and check in was smooth. The people were very friendly and easy to talk to. We checked and waited for everyone to check in. Once that was completed, the cowboys/cowgirls assigned us horses, i presume based on weight. They matched us up well, made friend with the horse and saddled up. The ride up to the cookout took an hour and was an easy ride. The horses were very well trained and felt they were on autopilot but did have some riding actions we had to do. Other than that, it was smooth and easy. The cookout was in a great location with everything, most importantly, the steak was cooked perfectly and delicious. The sides were good but the beans were incredible. I would definitely recommend the cookout. The cookout was about an hour and we prepared to saddle up and head back down. On the ride back, we took a separate trail and the trail rider lead was very informative and good at providing histories and stories. Overall, the ride was fun, the food good and the cowboys/cowgirls there were great. I recommend taking the 3 hour ride and the cookout is worth it. My horse Odin was the best and took good care of me. Kiwi, my wife's horse was a snacker and was fun to watch.
      Written October 8, 2024
    • garydE7610PX
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Excellent experience
      The ride was fun and the staff were very interesting and pleasant food was excellent and I would recommend it to anyone that was interested in doing the ride
      Written October 5, 2024
    • SkimadBristol
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Very nice
      Loved this, really enjoyed it, the ladies that "drove" us were entertaining and confident. The horses appeared well cared for. The campsite was way better than I expected with great food and wonderful staff. We roped dummy horses, played horse shoe games and really couldn't fault it.
      Written October 4, 2024
    • Seaside54893641914
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Amazing western riding experience
      Great experience. We did the 3 hour ride with cookout. Quiet, well behaved horses. Excellent guides and delicious food. The route was perfect with some stunning scenery. Will definitely do it again next time we’re in the area.
      Written October 2, 2024
    • jacienep
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Fun
      This was a fun experience. We had originally signed up for a horseback ride. Their weight limit is 130. My boyfriend weighs just under that but with clothes and shoes is over and we could not ride. We had to do the covered wagon. That sucked, but it is what it is. The wagon ride was fun. It has pretty views. The dinner was delicious and the staff was all friendly.
      Written September 30, 2024
    • neillynda
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Don’t hesitate, book a ride
      I had an amazing ride on a very patient and well behaved horse. An hour gave me time to appreciate the amazing experience and vaguely feel my legs when I dismounted. The guide was so helpful and everyone was friendly and made it a great experience.
      Written September 30, 2024
    • grammibiker
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Not to be missed !!
      This was a really fun way to have dinner ! A scenic ride in a covered wagon (tarps UP so you can see out ) You pass by lakes, go through wooded areas and end up at the cutest venue for a steak dinner. A covered patio with a giant wood fire pit. The food was great, the staff was super friendly. Perfect for the entire family.
      Written September 29, 2024
    • 598laurir
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Do NOT miss this opportunity!
      This was amazing! Fantastic views, food, and staff. From a horse person's point of view it was so good to see well fed, shod and kindly cared for horses. Beautifully trained, taking us leisurely along the spectacular Bow River. Do not miss this opportunity. As a bonus, we were welcomed back at the ranch by a herd of about 20 wild Elk that came down from the forest. A fantastic ending to our day!!
      Written September 28, 2024
    • 62judithn
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Awesome time!
      Absolutely beautiful! Very friendly staff that was very knowledgeable of the area. So informative . The dinner was amazing. Such a cool experience.
      Written September 27, 2024
    • philipcG4109ZP
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Absolutely Amazing
      What an amazing experience. We went on the evening 3 hour cook out ride. Staff were very frendliy, helpful, professional and knowledgeable. The horses were really good and very quietly natured. The food was excellent. The hole experience was excellent. I cannot rate these guys at Banff trail rides high enough, I would recommend to anyone, if we had the time I would be booking another ride, but unfortunately we are on the move tomorrow to a new destination.
      Written September 26, 2024
    • Bucko007
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Nice experience
      Our ride was totally fantastic. Our guides Erin, Jess and Dakota prepped us and ensured we were paired with the proper horse. The horses were calm and very nice to ride. Our trail guides were very nice and knowledgeable giving us some info about the horses and the region. We crossed the river twice and also rode along the golf course for a bit. There was some elevation changes but nothing too drastic for those afraid of heights. As someone who has ridden in the past, I would have liked to trot or gallop a bit but I fully understand the varying degree of riders they contend with on a daily basis and the need to make everyone feel comfortable. I would do this again.
      Written September 25, 2024
    • deannac763
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Fun Family Adventure
      What an amazing way to see the mountains. My family and I did the wagon ride and the guides were friendly and knowledgeable. When we arrived for our lunch we were impressed with the offerings. My nine year old daughter said it was the best steak she had ever had. The guides even helped my kids play some games. I would highly recommend.
      Written September 24, 2024
    • lyna321
      0 contributions
      1.0 of 5 bubbles
      Very disappointing and unpleasant experience.
      I went on a 3 hour ride recently and I was pretty disappointed. The horse I was on was aged and very slow and should either be on a shorter duration ride or retired. I spent most of my time a good distance behind the rest of the horses as he simply couldn't keep up. He zig zagged his way down all hills as his hooves are clearly sore. I have ridden horses my whole life and he definitely has some sort of hoof issue. I should have got off him and walked but that would have put me even further behind the rest of the riders. It's disappointing that the welfare of the horses isn't coming first. I spoke to the guide as soon as we got back and even said she was surprised that horse was on a 3 hour trip. I contacted the company via email and Facebook but their response was minimal.
      Written September 23, 2024
    See all 1,233 reviews
    These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

    Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

    Popular mentions

    4.5
    4.5 of 5 bubbles19 reviews
    Excellent
    15
    Very good
    1
    Average
    1
    Poor
    1
    Terrible
    1

    Kimmyjmcc
    Dublin, OH2 contributions
    1.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jul 2023 • Family
    We ran 15 minutes late for our safety briefing. I admit that and take responsibility. We went to the stables at our hotel and once our mistake was realized, we got a taxi and got to the proper stables, which was 5 minutes away asap. A large tour bus was checking in in front of us, and caused us further delay. I finally got to the front and was told we were too late to join the safety briefing.

    End of story. No refund. No “let’s see how we can help”. Simply, we will gladly take your $500+ for your mistake, to bad, you signed paperwork, now go enjoy your vacation elsewhere in town.

    Yes, we signed an agreement. Yes, we signed waivers. I was told numerous times that it was my fault, tough luck.

    At first I was furious. Now, I am just sad and disappointed that a company in a tourist town operates this way. No grace, no empathy, no concern, just poor customer service that is more concerned about the bottom line. I’m sure they will say they can’t listen to everyone’s why I’m late story, but I disagree. Seems like most reviews on here are positive. So, why not take a moment to find out why a frazzled family is late? Why not listen and care and offer options (because I looked and there were later tours open today and tomorrow with availability) instead of just taking their hard earned money and turning them away?

    My only hope is that folks at this business don’t ever find themselves in a situation or moment where they need someone to stop and listen and care and not just treat them like a business transaction because being on this receiving end quite honestly sucks. Good costumer service goes a long way. Poor costumer service in a tourist town can ruin a family’s vacation. We have a small store back in our hometown that strives on their motto “Always Choose Kindness” and I support this small business 110%. I only wish this small business in a tourist town operated under the same motto.
    Written July 19, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Lunabelle13
    norwich22 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jun 2024 • Couples
    We went on the 3 day/2 night Sundance Lodge trip, and it is genuinely one of the best things I've ever done. If you're considering it, just do it.

    You begin down at the stables by meeting your horse then ride out for a couple of hours or so for lunch before heading on a few hours more up to the lodge. I'd read that it was in the middle of nowhere, but until you're standing there you don't really know what that means. It's genuine miles from anywhere wilderness. We spent day 2 riding out further on the trails, along old packers trails and down to see Brewster Glacier, before heading back on the third day.

    The lodge itself is wonderful. It's cosy and so unexpectedly comfortable! I can't compliment the cook highly enough, the food was genuinely excellent - I don't eat meat and was nervous as to what I would be able to have but she went out of her way to make delicious meals (she was also just the most lovely person, and sitting chatting with her was always a pleasure).
    Spending time in the lodge was a highlight - sitting down to dinner in the evening felt like a family get together and was always fun, and then you could step away right back out into nature.

    Our guide throughout the trip was knowledgeable and friendly, the host of the house and the packers all made us feel welcome and as though we were just part of the group. The staff really do make this trip what it is.

    Tips:
    *I'd never ridden more than a couple of hours before, if you're the same then get in a few riding lessons before you go - some of the packers trails are a little hairy.
    *Take painkillers just in case, I never have trouble with my knees but they were killing me.
    *The saddle bags are bigger than you think, take layers.
    *You get to the lodge between 4 and 5 each day. Take comfy clothes for hanging about it, and take a good book for some quiet time
    *Get up in the night and look at the stars, you'll see the milky way
    *Go and see the horses while at the lodge, don't just dismount and walk away until the next morning. Spending time watching them and getting to know them was wonderful (and if you get to meet Bugsy the mule, just know he's the very best boy).
    Written July 12, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Angela_T_2010
    Calgary, Canada40 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    OMG what an amazing weekend horseback riding with #banfftrailriders #horsebackbanff Huge thanks out to our guides Amy and Natalie and their trusty mule Tanya! We covered just over 38km of trails over two days getting to just over 1600m of elevation. The night was spent at Sundance Lodge where the food and hospitality was endless. I thoroughly recommend this trip.
    Written September 6, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Tour815960
    1 contribution
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    The trail ride was cool with majestic scenery, beautiful horses and a great guide; ask for Lola!
    The overnight cabin was nice but limited as one would expect for backcountry. The food was good but not great. We missed having a campfire and s’mores as we expected.
    Overall good but could be great with improvements.
    Written July 16, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Hello, Thank you for sharing your experience with us! We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed the trail ride and the majestic scenery along the way. We appreciate your feedback regarding the overnight cabin in the backcountry. While we do our best to provide a comfortable and rustic experience, please understand that there may be limitations due to the remote location. We hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back in the future for an even better adventure.
    Written August 2, 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Rachel A
    9 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Aug 2022 • Couples
    Absolutely amazing experience. Fabulous guides, Kayley and Brian, made us feel relaxed and at home. They were kind and warm from start to finish.
    My horse, Hondo, was beautiful and gentle (most of the time!) The trek was stunning with plenty of scenery to enjoy.
    We had a wonderful night at the lodge. The food was wonderful (thank you, Zac!) The lodge was really homely and comfortable. We were with a great group of people, and enjoyed a raucous evening of cards.
    The morning was relaxed and peaceful. A hearty breakfast set us up.for the day before we headed back.
    I'm not an experienced rider, and I was pretty nervous. Kayley and Brian made me feel so at ease and looked after, and I can honestly say this trip was one of the best experiences of my life.
    Thank you to everyone (human and horsey!)
    Written August 21, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Laura O
    10 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Sep 2022 • Family
    Fantastic trip into Sundance with my 10 year old. Lovely staff, great food but the quality of horses and spectacular lodge stole the show.
    Cant recommend enough.
    Can call it a “once in a lifetime” when you know you will be back ;)
    Written September 18, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Susan L
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Excellent guides Sarah and Nat were knowledgeable and entertaining. The trail views were spectacular of the Sundance Mountain Range.The characterful ,Lodge was clean and comfortable and its location was beautiful . We listened to the creek all night. Hayden the chef cooked wonderful meals. My only regret was my lack of fitness and my sore butt. A wonderful, memorable trip and a well run organisation.
    Written June 5, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Hey Susan, We're thrilled to hear that you had an excellent experience with us! Our guides, Sarah and Nat, are passionate about sharing their knowledge and ensuring that our guests have an entertaining and educational journey. Glamping in the rockies is a once in a lifetime experience! The Sundance lodge is located in a serene location, surrounded by nature and creeks. We are glad to hear the lodge and the cooking exceeded your expectations. Thank you for your kind words. We strive to provide a well-run operation that delivers exceptional experiences to our guests. We're grateful for your support and hope to have the opportunity to welcome you back in the future.
    Written June 9, 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    IAN J
    Wrexham, UK71 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Absolutely fantastic, the trail was amazing with lovely views, the trek leaders (Wilby & Bailey) were great, friendly, knowledgeable and fun to be around. The food was amazing and the lodge is lovely to stay in. Could not fault it at all.
    Written June 30, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Maureen E
    Calgary, Canada124 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Sep 2021 • Family
    Family experience, horses were well matched to our riding abilities. Our guides made us feel safe as we negotiated river crossings and rocky trails. Sundance lodge is a western dream, lots of rustic touches but comfy beds. No cell phone or wifi reception and lodge has solar panels for its electric needs. Meals were good and generous servings.
    Written September 6, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Judy P
    Inverness, FL88 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Jul 2019 • Couples
    Despite a rainy start, we had a wonderful time. Kim is a terrific, patient, well trained guide and a lovely person. Trekking along muddy trails, through a couple of rivers to Sundance Lodge was amazing. Heather and Marylee greeted us with a fire and food and we soon forgot our cold, wet bodies. The food was great. The staff couldn’t be better. Loved our horses. Lucked out with a fun group of 6. The sun came out as we traveled “home” through beautiful mountains, rivers and views. Sad saying farewell.
    Written July 26, 2019
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you for your comments we are glad you enjoyed your trip to Sundance Lodge, Its a very special place. We hope to see you back on the trails again soon. I suggest one of the longer trips next time. The further you ride the better the trip.
    Written August 6, 2019
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    Showing results 1-10 of 16
    *Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

    2-Day Sundance Overnight Backcountry Lodge Trip by Horseback provided by Banff Trail Riders

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