NORTH EAST

ALBERTA’S IRON HORSE TRAIL is a 300 kilometre rail-to-trail which connects rural communities northeast of Edmonton. Much of the multi-use trail is horse-friendly and popular with ATVs. Horse camping may be available at regional agricultural society facilities and private horse operations. Check ironhorsetrail.ca for more.

COOKING LAKE/BLACKFOOT PROVINCIAL RECREATION

AREA has multiple trailheads open to horses but no horse camping. Trails meander through forests and meadows and are suitable for barefoot horses. More information is available from Alberta Parks.

To learn more about these and other trail riding opportunities, join regional riding organizations and social media groups. You’ll find riding partners, learn where to go, and support the continued use of trails by horseback riders. Local riders also know about trails, private ranches and horse campsites that are perfect for a weekend getaway. So connecting with like-minded folk can provide opportunities to ride in places that you might not experience otherwise.

A list of some of the Alberta-wide equine organizations is available in this issue of Alberta Bits magazine. AB