SOUTH WEST

BOB CREEK WILDLAND PROVINCIAL PARK is a mix of rolling grasslands and forested hills. Riders can choose their own track and overnight pack trips are permitted. There is minimal signage so take navigation devices and be prepared for cattle.

BRAGG CREEK TRAILS are popular with hikers, mountain bikers and cross-country skiers. But they’re accessible for equestrians year-round, too. There’s separate horse trailer parking along with maps, signage and volunteer trail ambassadors. Horses need to be comfortable with other users on busy trails.

CASTLE PROVINCIAL PARK & WILDLAND

PROVINCIAL PARK have extensive trails that may be poorly marked. The exception is Syncline crosscountry ski area which has marked forested trails and a horse campsite. Alberta Parks’ summer brochure is helpful.

KANANASKIS COUNTRY has numerous horse campsites with multiple trailheads. Horse camps include Blue Rock, Dawson, Etherington, Indian Graves, Little Elbow, Mesa Butte, Sandy McNabb and Strawberry. Consider horse fitness, shoeing requirements, and wilderness skills and equipment before riding these areas. It’s best to go with navigation devices and trail riding partners who know the areas.

WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK is horse-friendly, although parking lots can be tight and trails can be busy. A national parks pass is required. Wishbone, Horseshoe Basin and Snowshoe trails have excellent mountain views and are easy to follow. Be prepared for bears.

CYPRESS HILLS INTERPROVINCIAL PARK has horse camps in both the Alberta and Saskatchewan areas of the park. Trails are marked but riders can choose their own adventure among the rolling hills. The hills are the highest point in mainland Canada between the Rocky Mountains and Labrador so be prepared for all weather. Roads can be impassible after rain.

WRITING-ON-STONE PROVINCIAL PARK has a rodeo grounds and coulees that are only accessible to guided trail riders on their own horses. Hoodoo formations plus First Nations’ and Northwest Mounted Police history make this a unique area to explore. Contact the park to book a guide.