Banff: Wagon Ride with Cowboy Cookout BBQ

Imagine gliding along the Bow River in a traditional wagon, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Canadian Rockies, then warming up by a campfire with a hearty BBQ. That’s exactly what you get with the Banff Wagon Ride with Cowboy Cookout BBQ, a 3-hour excursion offered by Discover Banff Tours for $108 per person. Guides lead you through a scenic route past Sulphur Mountain and the historic Cave and Basin hot springs, culminating in a delicious, cooked-to-order steak feast with plenty of western-style games and mountain vistas to enjoy.

Two features we particularly appreciated are the stunning scenery—the views of the Rockies and Alberta foothills are undeniably breathtaking—and the warm, friendly atmosphere fostered by knowledgeable guides like Sydney and Casey. The chance to try roping or horseshoes adds a fun, hands-on element that makes this more than just a sightseeing tour. The only caveat? Since it’s held in a remote, backcountry setting, the facilities are limited, so don’t expect luxury amenities or custom menu requests.

This adventure is well-suited for travelers who want a genuine taste of Western life, enjoy scenic outdoor activities, and appreciate a hearty meal after some fun. Families with kids over 17, history buffs, or anyone eager for a unique Banff experience will find this tour particularly rewarding.

Key Points

• Scenic Route: The wagon ride follows the Bow River and Sulphur Mountain trail, offering consistently stunning mountain vistas.
• Authentic Western Experience: Includes western games like roping and horseshoes, adding interactive fun.
• Delicious Meal: Tuck into a cooked-to-order steak with baked beans, potatoes, coleslaw, and dessert—an impressive farm-to-table BBQ.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Sydney and Casey are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to keep the experience engaging.
• Remote Setting: Located in a backcountry area, facilities are limited; bring essentials like insect repellent and wear sturdy shoes.
• Limited Customization: Due to remote logistics, the menu and experience are structured, with no special dietary accommodations beyond the set menu.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure kicks off at Warner Stables, situated at the end of Sundance Road in Banff. The location itself is a charming, authentic stable with a large red barn that’s easy to spot. You’ll check in at the office and then walk outside into the sunshine to meet your horse and wagon team. Since no hotel pickup or drop-off is included, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the stables, which are conveniently located but in a somewhat remote part of town.

This setup allows for a small, intimate group, often just your party and a few others—something we find ideal for a relaxed, personalized experience. The tour typically takes place in the afternoon, making it perfect for a late-day adventure when the light hits the mountains just right.

The Wagon Ride and Scenic Views

Once seated in the wagon, the ride begins along the Bow River, passing by notable sights like the historic Cave and Basin hot springs. The guides are full of interesting tidbits about the area’s history and natural features, making the ride educational as well as scenic.

The first hour’s journey is relaxing, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the towering peaks and lush valleys. As some reviews mention, you might spot wildlife like elk during the ride—one guest even commented, “We saw over 20 elk on the way back to the barn.” So, keep your camera ready.

The Cowboy Cookout at 3 Mile Cabin

Arriving at the cookout spot, you’ll find a comfortable sheltered area with picnic benches and a campfire—a perfect setting for a hearty meal. Here, you have the chance to customize your steak doneness and enjoy a generous plate of roasted potatoes, cowboy baked beans, coleslaw, and fresh buns. The desserts are typically a sweet finish to the meal, often enjoyed while warming up by the fire if the weather turns cool or rainy (which some guests appreciated, especially in wet weather).

The highlight for many guests is the food quality—reviews are filled with comments like, “The steak dinner was great,” and “the food was delicious, probably the best meal of the holiday.” Considering the remote location, the fact that they serve cooked-to-order steak and fresh sides is remarkable and offers excellent value for the price.

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Western Games and Relaxation

Post-meal, you’re encouraged to try your hand at western-style games such as roping or horseshoes. Guides are friendly and helpful—one reviewer said, “Our guides Casey & co were so friendly and made the day so enjoyable.” If you prefer, you can simply relax by the fire or chat with fellow travelers, enjoying the good company and mountain views.

Return Journey

After a leisurely break, a second wagon ride takes you back along Sulphur Mountain trail, winding around Windy Knoll with more spectacular sights of the surrounding mountains. It’s an excellent way to take in the landscape and reflect on a memorable outing. The total duration is about three hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that fits well into your Banff itinerary.

Guides, Atmosphere, and Authenticity

Guests consistently praise the guides’ friendliness, knowledge, and ability to personalize the experience. Many reviews mention guides like Sydney, Casey, Anna, and Bella, highlighting their attentiveness and humorous storytelling. This genuine human touch elevates the experience from a simple tour to a memorable, authentic encounter.

Practical Considerations

Since the setting is in a remote backcountry, there are some practical points to note. The kitchen operates with limited resources, so they can’t accommodate special dietary requests outside the set menu. You’ll want to wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and long pants for comfort and safety on the ride. Insect repellent is recommended, especially in warmer months, as the area can have bugs.

Note that backpacks are not permitted on the wagon, and children under 17 require adult accompaniment. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or unaccompanied minors.

Price and Value

At $108 per person, this experience offers excellent value considering the combination of scenic riding, interactive games, a cooked-to-order steak meal, and expert guiding. The small group size and the chance to try roping or horseshoes make it a more personal and engaging activity than many standard sightseeing options.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This outing is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor scenery, authentic western experiences, and hearty food. Families with older children, couples seeking a unique adventure, or groups looking for a relaxed yet interactive activity will find it particularly appealing. If you’re curious about cowboy culture, want a break from more “touristy” attractions, or simply love mountain vistas, this tour should be on your list.

Final Thoughts

The Banff Wagon Ride with Cowboy Cookout BBQ delivers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Western life in a stunning mountain setting. With knowledgeable guides, incredible scenery, and hearty, cooked-to-order food, it’s an experience that balances fun, relaxation, and a genuine connection to the land.

While it’s not a luxury excursion, the value for the price is high, especially considering the personalized service and the chance to participate in western-style games. The remote location adds a rustic charm that feels true to the spirit of the Rockies.

For anyone wanting a memorable, engaging, and scenic half-day in Banff, this tour offers something truly special. It’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural authenticity, and good old-fashioned fun in the mountains.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
No, the tour begins at Warner Stables in Banff, so you will need to arrange your own transportation to the starting point.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about 3 hours, including the wagon rides, BBQ lunch, and time for games or relaxation.

Can I customize my meal?
Due to the remote location and limited resources, the kitchen operates with a set menu. Special requests beyond the cooked-to-order steak are not available.

What should I wear?
Sturdy, closed-toed shoes and long pants are recommended for safety and comfort. Insect repellent is also advised, especially in summer.

Are children allowed?
Children under 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Those unaccompanied are not permitted, and the tour is not suitable for mobility-impaired travelers.

What if it rains?
The lunch area is sheltered, so the experience can proceed even in wet weather. Guests generally find the rainy scenery adds to the mountain atmosphere.

Are there any restrictions?
Backpacks are not permitted on the wagon, and the tour is designed for adults and older children. It’s not suitable for those with mobility issues.

What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in English.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot now and choose to pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour date.

In sum, this wagon ride and cowboy cookout in Banff combines scenic beauty, fun western games, and hearty mountain food into a rewarding adventure. It’s a genuine way to experience the rugged charm of the Rockies with a touch of cowboy flair that you’ll remember long after the trip ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: