Kananaskis Country, 4200 square kilometres of towering peaks, high mountain lakes and alpine meadows in the heart of the Alberta Rockies.  The 2008 season is in partnership with "Trail Riders of the Canadian Rockies" this season, who are celebrating their 85th year of riding throughout the Rockies.

We start by matching clients with a compatible horse and run through a short orientation. Then it’s an undemanding five-hour ride up the Evan Thomas Valley to the main camp at Happy Valley. Along the way enjoy a picnic lunch and lots of time to take pictures of the spectacular scenery. The camp itself is very comfortable, with weatherproof tents, and for those mountain air appetites, hearty, home-cooked meals are prepared in the main tent on a wood-burning stove.

Accommodation is in painted Indian Tepees or large sleeping tents with foam mattresses. Meals are cooked in a large dining tent.

Every day is a once in a lifetime experience, with unique destinations including high passes and high alpine lakes. Fishing is good in these parts and the views and photography opportunities are extraordinary. To round out each day what could be better than a sing-song around a blazing campfire before turning in.

On the last day we continue riding south on a different trail, lunch at a lake and then on to a rendezvous point along a road in the Highwood Pass. A van will take you back to Boundary Ranch, where an optional supper is available or departure onto the rest of your journey.

 

 

2008 Rates

The July 13th departure will be a special photography oriented ride.  For those wishing photo guidance, we will have Neil Thiessen (an experienced landscape photographer) on this ride giving you hints.  Point and shooters will gain an insight into composition and develop an appreciation for the magic of changing light conditions.  For those with SLR camera, Neil will review depth of field, lens speed setting, hyper focal distance and other techniques.  A bonus is that Neil is also a Geologist, so many of your questions about the Rockies’ terrain will be answered.

 

 

 

 

Things to bring

Warm sleeping bag, rain gear (pants, jacket and boots), riding boots or light hiking boots, a pair of casual shoes for around camp, extra clothing, warm jacket, hat, flashlight, camera and lots of film, biodegradable soap, sunscreen, gloves.  Alcoholic beverages and snack food are optional.  (Sleeping Bags may be rented at a fee of $10.00 per day, plus GST).

All gear should be packed into a duffel bag and a maximum 2 bags allowed with a combined weight of not more than 40 lbs.  Be sure to leave your rain gear out for the trip just in case!

Transportation

Shuttle service is available from the Calgary International Airport, downtown Calgary and Banff to the Kananaskis Village.  Regular taxi service is also available.

Transportation from Kananaskis Village to Boundary Ranch is available at 9:00 A.M. on the day of trip departure, and back after your return.

Accommodation

Is available at the Kananaskis Village Hotels for your stay prior to and following your pack trip.  There are also several campgrounds and R.V. Parks nearby.  Give us a call for details.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

A 50% deposit is required when booking, and the balance 30 days prior to your arrival.  If cancellation is received in writing 30 days prior to the trip, one half of the deposit will be refunded, or the full deposit may be transferred to an alternate trip within the same season.

Release of Responsibility

All riders are required to sign a release waiver.  It is recommended that each person has personal insurance coverage.

There will be no refunds for trips already in progress.  We are not responsible for delays or cancellations due to poor weather conditions, restrictions or other factors we cannot control.

You will be responsible for the cost of the helicopter evacuation for medical or personal reasons should it be necessary.

 

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