2-Day Sundance Overnight Backcountry Lodge Trip by Horseback

If you’ve ever dreamed of living the cowboy life amid the Canadian Rockies, this 2-Day Sundance Overnight Backcountry Lodge Trip offers a taste of that fantasy. Guided by seasoned professionals, you’ll spend two days riding through pristine wilderness, soaking in breathtaking mountain vistas, and unwinding in the comfort of a charming lodge. It’s not your typical day trip; this is an authentic, multi-sensory experience that promises both adventure and relaxation.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the quality of the guides — they’re knowledgeable, friendly, and confident in managing the backcountry terrain, which reassures both first-time and experienced riders. Second, the culinary experience — hearty trail lunches and exquisite dinners at the lodge receive praise, ensuring you’re well-fed after a day on horseback.

One aspect to consider is the physical requirement: riders should be comfortable controlling a horse for hours and should meet age and weight restrictions. If you’re looking for a luxurious, but active outdoor experience with a genuine Western feel, this tour is a great fit. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy nature, don’t mind rustic settings, and are ready for a bit of adventure in the mountains.

Key Points

• Authentic backcountry riding through Alberta’s stunning wilderness with expert guides
• Comfortable lodge stay with hearty meals and wine, blending adventure with cozy relaxation
• Suitable for ages 9 and up, with weight and riding ability restrictions for safety
• Longer, immersive experience booked well in advance, offering better value and planning
• Limited group size (max 12), ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience
• Remote location, so expect no electricity or Wi-Fi, adding to the sense of escape

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Sundance Overnight Horseback Experience

The Beginning: Meeting Your Guides and Horses

The adventure kicks off at BTR Stables in Banff, where you’ll meet your guide and a horse carefully chosen for your riding ability and size. The process is smooth; the staff is friendly and professional, eager to ensure your safety and comfort. You’ll be fitted with a helmet (mandatory for those under 18), and then it’s time to saddle up. The group size is limited to 12, which helps foster a friendly, more personalized environment.

Day 1: From Banff to Sundance Lodge

The first day is all about covering around 10 miles of trail through Alberta’s backcountry. The ride follows a scenic path along glacier-fed creeks, a visual treat that combines sparkling waters with rugged mountain vistas. The guides keep the group moving at a relaxed pace, ensuring everyone has time to take in the surroundings.

One of the standout aspects here is the quality of the trail lunch — a simple but hearty cowboy-style meal enjoyed on the riverbank, giving you a taste of Western hospitality. As one reviewer noted, the food on the trail was “very good,” which is quite a compliment after hours in the saddle.

The highlight of the day is arriving at the Sundance Lodge in the late afternoon. Unlike camping trips, this backcountry lodge offers real beds and a professional kitchen, so you can unwind in comfort. The lodge itself is described as “divine” and “very clean,” with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect after a day of riding.

The Lodge Experience: Comfort Meets Wilderness

This isn’t a roughing-it style camping trip. The lodge provides a luxurious counterpoint to the rugged trail, with plenty of time to relax by the fire, sip wine, and share stories with fellow riders. The evening meal is prepared by a skilled cook, and reviews praise the delicious food and great wine selection — a surprisingly refined touch for a backcountry setting.

Day 2: Leisurely Return to Banff

Morning at the lodge is slow and peaceful, giving you time to enjoy the stunning scenery and reflect on your adventure before heading back. The ride back to Banff includes another lunch stop along the trail, maintaining a relaxed pace. You’ll arrive back at BTR Stables around 4:30 pm, with plenty of stories to take home.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Your package covers all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), a night at the lodge, and a professional guide. Helmets are provided and required for minors. Alcohol is available for purchase, but not included in the price, and transportation to and from Banff is not included, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers who love horses and scenic outdoor activities, as well as those who appreciate a touch of luxury and good food after a day in the wilderness. It appeals to travelers comfortable with riding horses, meeting the age and weight restrictions, and embracing the rustic setting. It’s also ideal for groups or couples wanting a memorable, shared adventure.

The Value of the Experience

At $987.72 per person, this tour is a significant investment, but it offers a mix of guided horseback riding, gourmet meals, comfortable lodging, and exclusive access to Banff’s backcountry. Many reviews highlight the quality of guides, food, and scenery, which justifies the cost for those craving an authentic wilderness escape.

Compared to day trips or more commercialized tours, the overnight element creates a more immersive experience. Spending a night in the lodge allows travelers to unwind and enjoy the mountain environment without feeling rushed. The small group size enhances safety and personal attention, making it feel more like a bespoke adventure than a generic tour.

What Do Past Travelers Say?

Reviewers consistently praised the knowledgeable guides — “The trail guides & support staff did a tremendous job,” noted one. The scenery is described as “great,” with stunning mountain views and wildlife sightings that add to the adventure. Food also gets high marks, with guests loving the hearty, well-prepared meals and the wine in the evening.

Some mentioned the comfortable lodge environment and the fact that there’s “no electricity, cell service or internet,” which many find refreshing — a true digital detox.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress in layers, as mountain weather can change quickly. The tour recommends appropriate clothing, especially considering the rural setting without electricity or climate control.
• Be prepared for a full day of riding — physical fitness helps, but the guides are skilled at pacing the group.
• Book well in advance, as the tour is popular and often booked 95 days ahead.
• Confirm your weight and riding ability beforehand, to ensure a good fit with your horse and safety during the ride.
• Remember, children must ride their own horse and be at least 9 years old, making this suitable for families with older kids.

The Sum Up

This 2-Day Sundance Overnight Backcountry Lodge Trip offers a rare chance to experience the quiet majesty of Banff’s wilderness on horseback, combined with the comfort of a mountain lodge and excellent food. It’s a great choice for outdoor lovers seeking a genuine, immersive adventure that balances activity with relaxation. The guides’ expertise, the scenic beauty, and the high-quality meals make it a memorable way to connect with nature and cowboy culture in one of Canada’s most breathtaking regions.

While the price may seem steep, the value lies in the combination of guided riding, luxurious lodging, and the chance to step outside everyday life for a couple of days. It’s best suited for travelers who want more than just a quick snapshot — those eager to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and share a true backcountry experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While the tour is open to most travelers, you should be comfortable controlling a horse during the ride. Riders under 18 must wear helmets, and children aged 9 and older are welcome, provided they can ride their own horse confidently.

What are the age restrictions?
Participants must be at least 9 years old. Children cannot be paired with adults; they must ride their own horse. All minors need to wear helmets and be accompanied by a guardian if under 18.

How much riding is involved?
You’ll spend about 10 miles on horseback each day, with a leisurely pace designed to enjoy the scenery rather than intense riding. The trip includes stops for meals and rest.

What should I bring?
Dress in layers suitable for mountain weather, bring any personal items needed for comfort, and prepare for no electricity or Wi-Fi at the lodge. The tour provides helmets, but bring your own if preferred.

Is the experience suitable for couples or groups?
Yes, with a maximum group size of 12, it’s intimate enough for couples or friends to share the adventure and bond over the experience.

What’s included in the price?
The package includes one night at Sundance Lodge, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), a guide, and helmets for minors.

Are alcohol and transportation included?
Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase; transportation to and from Banff is not included. Be prepared for a remote setting with no cell service.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. Make sure all details are confirmed before finalizing your reservation.

Is this suitable for someone with back problems or pregnant women?
No, the tour is not recommended for participants with back problems or pregnant women due to the physical demands and nature of riding.

Saddle up for an authentic mountain adventure that combines horseback riding, cozy lodge comfort, and stunning scenery — perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and embrace the wild.