Horseback Riding
Experience Valemount and the Robson Valley while sitting high in the saddle. Take a guided tour or ride our endless trails on your own.
Explore the Canadian Rocky Mountains on Horseback
With views of snowcapped mountain peaks, and trails that meander through cedar forests going trail riding is a great way to take in incredible scenery of the Robson Valley. Whether you bring your own horse or book a tour with a local trail guide exploring the valleys and gentle slopes of Valemount with an equine companion is an enjoyable way to spend a day.
Explore, Learn and Tour
Feel free to bring your own mount to our valley and explore our many trail networks. You can also board at a local ranch and register in of horsemanship training camps and clinics. Create a new level of understanding between yourself and your equine partner. Western or dressage, the Robson Valley is filled with opportunities to improve your horsemanship. Novices can book a guided tour and spend an afternoon in the wilderness or camp out overnight. In Valemount, let the mountains move you and your horse take you to where you want to go.
Simple Stomping Ground
See the world as our pioneers saw it — from a quiet perch on an able steed. Ascend gradual heights and wander through wildflower dotted meadows. At times, the forest will wrap itself around you, then it will disappear, and you’ll find yourself trotting through open fields with the jagged mountain peaks of the Rockies, Monashees and Cariboo Mountains standing guard at each side.
Boots, Chaps and Cowboy Hats
The Canoe Mountain Rodeo draws in cowboys and girls from throughout the Robson Valley and beyond. Every July our rodeo grounds heat up and the valley fills with excitement. We’ve got barrels and bull riding, bareback broncs and more. Dust off your boots, come on in and help cheer on the competitors as they vie for top spot. Stay late and kick up your heels at our legendary rodeo dance and make it a night to remember.
Top Ways to See the World From a Saddle
- Join Willow Ranch for a horse holidays, trail rides, lesson, demos, training and Irwin Insights courses. You can also stay at the ranch in one of their cabins.
- Cowgirl Up Adventures offers guided horseback riding tours, riding lessons, and custom guiding services in historic Tete Jaune Cache.
- Find out what it takes to work the ranch, and enrol in Ranch School for Dummies at Cardinal Ranch.
- Come cheer on our cowboys and cowgirls as they vie for a cash prize in the annual Canoe Mountain Rodeo.
- Become a horse whisperer at Falling Star Ranch.
- Stick to existing trails. Horses are not permitted on all area trails. Check with the Valemount Visitor Centre for current information.
- Be prepared, make a plan, and let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. Never go alone.
- Give wildlife space, and never feed wildlife. Even if it doesn’t appear dangerous, it could be in the right circumstances. Be bear smart.
- Be prepared for sudden weather changes — dress accordingly.
- Mosquitoes love our mountain air, so wear insect repellent.
- Always pack a first-aid kit.
- Help keep the Robson Valley pristine. Pack out what you pack in. If you’re bringing lunch, make sure to take your empty food and drink containers with you.
When to Go
- Our horseback riding season begins in mid-May
- Clinics run throughout the spring and summer
- Arrive in early July for the Canoe Mountain Rodeo
- Book a guided horseback riding tour at any time from May to October
