2-Day Sundance Overnight Backcountry Lodge Trip by Horseback

Imagine spending two days riding through some of Canada’s most breathtaking wilderness, surrounded by towering mountains, shimmering lakes, and the sounds of nature. This guided horseback trip offers a unique chance to live like a rancher, with comfortable overnight stays at the cozy Sundance Lodge. For about $987 per person, you’ll enjoy a mix of scenic riding, great food, and relaxing evenings in the mountains—an experience that combines adventure with comfort.

What we love about this trip is how it balances authentic backcountry riding with luxurious lodge accommodations. The opportunity to sip wine by a fire after a day on horseback genuinely feels like a step back into the old west, but with modern comforts. The scenery, as highlighted by reviews, is consistently praised for its stunning views and well-maintained horses. On the downside, you do need to be prepared for a remote setting—no Wi-Fi or electricity at the lodge, and the trip isn’t suited for those with back problems or pregnant women.

This trip suits anyone aged nine and up who’s comfortable on a horse and loves the idea of exploring remote mountain landscapes. It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience the wilderness without roughing it, and who enjoy good company, hearty food, and scenic riding. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, the guides focus on safety and enjoyment, making it accessible for most.

Key Points

• Authentic horseback riding: Guided trail rides through scenic backcountry in Alberta
• Comfortable overnight stay: Lodging at Sundance Lodge with hearty meals and a cozy atmosphere
• Stunning scenery: Views of glaciers, mountains, lakes, and wildlife
• All-inclusive: Meals, guide, and horse handling included, with wine and dinner at the lodge
• Limited access: No Wi-Fi or electricity, in a remote mountain setting
• Ideal for: Riders ages 9+, those who enjoy nature, good food, and moderate adventure

The Experience in Depth

Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at BTR Stables in Banff, where you’ll meet your guides and your specially chosen horse. Conveniently, you can park your vehicle here for free during the trip, which makes logistics straightforward. The meeting time is 9:30 am, giving you plenty of daylight to start your adventure.

Day 1: From Banff to Sundance Lodge

Once saddled up, you’ll hit the trail along a ten-mile route that follows glacier-fed creeks and passes through stunning wilderness. The guides are praised for their professionalism and knowledge—one reviewer highlighted Courtney, Maia, and Mark as exceptional guides who made the experience memorable. The ride is a mix of gentle walking and some trotting, suitable for most riders with basic control over their horses.

Midway, you’ll stop for a simple cowboy-style hot lunch on the riverbank, which sounds perfect after a few hours in the saddle. This is a chance to relax, take photos, and enjoy the scenery. The trail winds through landscapes that showcase mountains, lakes, and wildlife, as one reviewer noted, “great scenery and well-kept horses.”

Later in the afternoon, you’ll arrive at Sundance Lodge, an unexpected luxury in the backcountry. The lodge is praised as a beautiful, clean, and cozy place, with guests mentioning the “divine” atmosphere and “excellent dinner.” The evening includes wine and a hearty dinner prepared by a skilled cook, who received praise for the quality and flavor of the food. Guests generally enjoy sitting by the fire, sharing stories, and relaxing after a day on horseback.

Day 2: Returning to Banff

The next morning, you can enjoy a slow start, taking in the views and savoring a delicious breakfast. The ride back to Banff is leisurely, with a lunch stop along the way, where you can reflect on the trip and enjoy more of the scenic surroundings. The return is around 4:30 pm, leaving plenty of time back in Banff for additional sightseeing or relaxing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The trip covers your overnight stay at Sundance Lodge, all your meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), a professional guide, and helmets for riders under 18. Alcoholic beverages can be purchased, and there’s no included transportation to or from the start point, which is at BTR Stables.

A key point is the Park Entry Fee, which travelers need to pay separately. The remote location means limited resources—so meal options are set menus, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options at an additional cost.

Practical Considerations

• Age & Weight: Must be 9 or older; max weight is 230 lbs. Reviewers have noted that children must ride their own horse, not be paired with an adult.
• Physical Requirements: Riders should be able to control a horse comfortably; the tour isn’t suitable for those with back issues or pregnant women.
• Remote Setting: No Wi-Fi, no electricity, cell service limited—perfect for disconnecting but worth knowing beforehand.
• Clothing: Dress appropriately for mountain weather, as weather can change quickly in the Rockies.

Authenticity, Comfort, and Scenic Highlights

What makes this experience stand out? The guides’ professionalism is often praised, which is reassuring since you’re riding in a remote wilderness. Guests frequently mention how knowledgeable and friendly the guides made the trip accessible and fun. The scenery receives high praise, with many commenting on the “great scenery and well-kept horses,” which is crucial for an enjoyable ride.

Guests also love the culinary experience—not just the hearty trail lunches but also the dinner at the lodge, which many describe as “excellent” and “delicious.” The wine, in particular, is appreciated after a day of riding, adding a touch of luxury to the wilderness.

The lodge itself acts as more than just a stopover—it’s a highlight, offering a cozy, clean, and peaceful retreat. The reviews emphasize how inviting and well-maintained it is, making it a perfect place to unwind.

The Real Draw

Beyond the stunning landscape, what keeps guests returning and talking about this trip are the quality of the guides, the authentic backcountry riding, and the comfortable lodge experience. As one reviewer said, “The food was great, staff knowledgeable, and the scenery superb,” capturing what many find appealing.

Who Should Consider This Trip?

This experience is best suited for adventure lovers who enjoy riding horses and are comfortable with basic control, as the trail can be challenging but manageable for most. It’s ideal for families with children aged 9+, especially those who want a taste of the wilderness without sacrificing comfort.

Travelers who appreciate good food, wine, and scenic beauty will find this trip satisfying. It’s perfect for those looking to disconnect from technology, as there’s no internet or Wi-Fi. And, of course, anyone eager to see Banff’s spectacular landscapes from horseback will find this trip rewarding.

However, if you have any back issues or require special accommodations, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for disabilities or pregnant women.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this horseback riding experience suitable for beginners?
While the tour is accessible for most riders, some basic horseback riding control is necessary. The guides are experienced and can assist, but the rider must be able to control the horse comfortably.

How physically demanding is the trip?
It involves riding for about ten miles on Day 1 and some riding on Day 2. You should be comfortable sitting on a horse for several hours and able to handle uneven terrain. It’s not suitable for those with back problems or limited mobility.

What is the lodge like?
The Sundance Lodge is described as a cozy, clean, and welcoming place with a professional kitchen. It’s a well-appointed retreat that offers a relaxing environment after a day in the saddle, with hearty food and wine.

What should I bring?
Dress appropriately for mountain weather, including layers and waterproof clothing if needed. Since there’s no electricity, bring any personal items carefully, and dress for comfort and safety.

Are meals provided?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, with menus designed to suit various dietary needs at an extra cost. The quality of food is highly praised.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 9 and up can join, but they must ride their own horse. Children under 18 require a waiver signed by a parent or guardian.

Final Thoughts

This horseback adventure in Banff offers a rare chance to experience Alberta’s wild landscapes from the saddle while enjoying the comforts of a luxurious lodge at night. The combination of stunning scenery, expert guides, hearty meals, and a cozy retreat makes it a compelling choice for travelers seeking a genuine mountain experience with a touch of elegance.

It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate guided outdoor activities and want to explore remote wilderness without sacrificing comfort. The trip’s high praise from previous guests highlights its value, provided you’re prepared for a remote environment and comfortable riding conditions.

For anyone eager to connect with nature, enjoy good company, and ride through some of Canada’s most photogenic scenery, this is a memorable way to spend two days in Banff. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a curious beginner, this trip offers enough flexibility and safety measures to make it a worthwhile adventure.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for a balance of adventure, comfort, and scenic beauty, this horseback overnight trip is a fantastic way to experience Banff’s wilderness. It provides the perfect mix of outdoor activity and cozy hospitality, suited for those who want an authentic taste of mountain life—without necessarily roughing it.