Banff: Wagon Ride with Cowboy Cookout BBQ

Taking part in the Wagon Ride with Cowboy Cookout BBQ in Banff offers an engaging way to experience the Rockies beyond the usual sightseeing stops. This tour combines a relaxing horse-drawn wagon ride with a hearty, cooked-to-order BBQ and some good old-fashioned western games. If you’re craving a taste of cowboy life amidst mountain scenery, this might be just the outing you’re looking for.

What we love about this experience is how it blends scenic views with interactive fun. The ride along the Bow River offers frames of the Canadian Rockies in every direction, and the chance to try your hand at roping or horseshoes adds a playful, genuine touch. Plus, the included BBQ—featuring steak, baked beans, potatoes, and dessert—feels more authentic than a typical picnic.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is in a remote backcountry area, which means you won’t find luxury amenities or extensive dietary options. The kitchen operates with limited resources, so requests outside the set menu aren’t accommodated. This tour is best suited for active travelers and those ready to embrace a rustic, outdoor adventure.

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a combination of nature, culture, and fun, especially those who enjoy outdoor activities, good food, and stunning mountain vistas.

Key Points

• Scenic Wagon Ride: Travel along the Bow River and Sulphur Mountain trail, soaking in incredible mountain views.
• Gourmet BBQ: Enjoy a cooked-to-order steak with sides like potatoes and baked beans in a relaxed, outdoor setting.
• Western Games: Test your skills with lassoing and horseshoes, adding a fun, interactive element.
• Authentic Experience: Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, providing insights into the local environment and cowboy life.
• Flexibility in Weather: Even if it rains, the covered picnic spot and campfire ensure you still have a memorable time.
• Value for Money: At $108 per person for a 3-hour experience, including transportation, food, and activities, this tour offers solid value for a unique day out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at Warner Stables in Banff, where you check in and get introduced to your trusty horse, which will pull the wagon. The initial part of the adventure involves a 1-hour ride along the Bow River, where the scenery is nothing short of spectacular. As you wind past the historic Cave and Basin hot springs, you’ll get a feel for Banff’s natural beauty and history.

The highlight of this part is the chance to view the mountains from a comfortable vantage point while riding at a relaxed pace. Many reviews mention the stunning vistas, with some noting sightings of elk, which adds to the authentic wild-west feel. One guest gushed about seeing over 20 elk on the way back, which underscores how close to nature you’ll get.

Upon arriving at the 3 Mile Cabin, the group transitions from riding to feasting. The meal is cooked on-site, and you get to choose your steak’s doneness—a nice touch that adds to the personalized experience. Alongside the steak, you’ll find roasted potatoes, cowboy baked beans, coleslaw, buns, and dessert, making for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Post-lunch, the tour continues with a second ride along the Sulphur Mountain trail, providing a different perspective of the Rockies. This route takes you around Windy Knoll, where panoramic views of Banff’s mountain ranges unfold. Guides are attentive and provide commentary, often sharing local insights or stories, which helps deepen your appreciation of the landscape.

What Makes the Experience Special

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who make the ride informative and fun. Guides like Sydney, Casey, and Anna are often highlighted for their friendliness, professionalism, and knack for creating a welcoming atmosphere. This personal touch helps turn a simple outdoor activity into a memorable adventure.

The Western-style games — roping, horseshoes, and even a campfire — add a playful tone that appeals to families and groups. Even if you’re not particularly skilled at roping, the experience of trying and learning from the guides is part of the enjoyment.

The delicious food consistently receives praise. Guests frequently mention that the BBQ was probably the best meal of their trip, with some noting that the cookout was well-prepared despite the remote kitchen setting. The overall value is further justified by the inclusion of parking, the scenic rides, and the engaging activities.

Practical Considerations

The tour lasts about 3 hours, usually in the afternoon, and includes transportation from the stables, a ride, a meal, and some leisure time. The price is $108 per person, which is reasonable given the combination of outdoor adventure, meal, and guided commentary.

However, because the experience takes place in a remote backcountry area, there are some limitations. The kitchen operates with limited resources, so special dietary requests aren’t possible. Also, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or anyone who doesn’t wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and long pants—these are required for safety.

For travelers concerned about weather, the tour offers some flexibility. Even if it rains, the sheltered picnic area and campfire ensure you won’t miss out on the social and culinary aspects. Many reviews appreciated that the experience was catered for wet weather, making it a reliable choice year-round.

The Reviews Speak Volumes

The overwhelming positive feedback highlights a consistent theme: friendly guides, stunning scenery, and excellent food. Guests often mention the knowledgeable guides who share interesting facts about the horses, local wildlife, and the area’s natural features.

Reviewers also love the opportunity to learn roping and horseshoes, describing the activities as fun and surprisingly easy to pick up, with some guests even claiming they’ve learned enough to rope a steer or throw horseshoes confidently.

The scenery is a recurring star of the experience, with many calling it the highlight of their trip to Banff. Whether it’s the river views or the mountain vistas from Windy Knoll, these sights seem to impress even seasoned travelers.

Final Thoughts on Value

For $108, you’re not just getting a scenic ride—you’re getting an immersive, hands-on experience that combines nature, culture, and cuisine. The tour is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to relax, take photos, and enjoy the surroundings. It’s particularly good for those who want more than just a sightseeing bus tour; it’s a chance to connect with the landscape and try some cowboy skills.

This adventure is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and authentic experiences. It appeals to families, couples, or groups looking for a fun, relaxed way to see Banff’s natural beauty. If you’re interested in Western culture, a good meal, and stunning mountain scenery, you’ll find plenty to love here.

People who appreciate friendly guides and a personal touch will find this experience especially rewarding. It’s also an excellent choice for those who want a more interactive outing than just looking at scenery from a bus or a viewpoint.

On the flip side, if you or someone in your party has mobility challenges or dietary restrictions beyond the set menu, you might want to consider other options. Also, those who dislike rain or cold weather might prefer to plan around clear days, as the experience is primarily outdoors.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
No, this tour does not include hotel transportation. You will meet at Warner Stables in Banff.

What should I wear?
Sturdy closed-toed shoes and long pants are required for safety. Bring insect repellent, especially in warmer months.

Can children participate?
Yes, children 17 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Riders need to sign a waiver, and children’s safety is a priority.

Is the food suitable for vegetarians or special diets?
Due to the remote location and limited kitchen resources, only the set menu is available. Requests beyond that are not accommodated.

What if it rains?
The tour is still operational in wet weather, with a sheltered lunch spot and a campfire to keep everyone comfortable.

How long does the tour last?
It runs about 3 hours, typically in the afternoon, including the rides, lunch, and leisure time.

Is this experience suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the outdoor terrain and nature of the activity.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the wagon rides, BBQ lunch, and parking. It does not include transportation from your hotel.

The Banff Wagon Ride with Cowboy Cookout BBQ offers a memorable mix of mountain scenery, cowboy culture, and delicious food. It’s an experience that emphasizes authentic details and engaging activities, making it well worth the $108 price tag for those who enjoy the outdoors and a bit of adventure. The guides consistently earn praise for their friendliness and knowledge, elevating what could be a simple ride into a genuine mountain experience.

If you’re looking for a fun, active outing that combines stunning views with western flavor and a hearty meal, this tour hits the mark. Its focus on small-group, hands-on enjoyment and scenic beauty makes it a standout choice for travelers wanting to see Banff from a different perspective.

In summary, this tour is best for outdoor lovers, families, and anyone eager to learn a little about cowboy life while soaking in Banff’s incredible natural landscapes. It’s a well-rounded, authentic experience that balances scenery, activity, and good food—all in a setting that’s hard to beat.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby