6-Day Halfway Lodge Backcountry Trip by Horseback

The ultimate backcountry trip, few folks ever get to experience a place like this. Sky-piercing mountains stretch out across the landscape, their peaks crusted with ice and snow. The air is cool and fresh. And best of all, there’s an almost zen-like quiet out here. On this six-day, five night trip you’ll pass by the shimmering waters of the Bow River, travel along a historic pack trail and then ride up Allenby Pass, where jagged rock formations line the route. And although you do climb to an elevation of 8,100 feet on this trip, the terrain is gentle for the entire way. And for all the rugged scenery you’ll get to gaze at on this trek, the adventure itself is far from ‘roughing it.’ Unwind in rustic luxury at the spacious Sundance Lodge and later at the cozy Halfway Lodge – both quintessential mountain cabins with comfortable beds.Please note that this trip departs on Sundays and Thursdays from late June to early September.

On this six-day adventure you’ll spend five nights at Sundance Lodge and Halfway Lodge, two quintessential mountain cabins. Your days will be spent exploring on horseback and your evenings relaxing in the cosy lodges, sharing delicious hearty meals and great conversation with your fellow riders. Day 1: Backcountry Ride to Sundance Lodge The adventure starts at 9:30am at Warner Stables, where you can park your vehicle for free for the duration of the trip. Once we have organised the gear and saddled up, we will begin the 10 mile journey to Sundance Lodge – following the rushing waters of the Bow River and Healy and Brewster Creeks. On the way we’ll stop for a cowboy cook-out along the banks of the river. You’ll saunter into Sundance Lodge at around 4:30pm, where you will be greeted by the friendly lodge host and shown to your room where you can freshen up with a warm shower and settle in. You'll sleep in a soft bed and dine on gourmet cuisine whipped up by your talented host in the professional kitchen. Day 2: Ride the Erling Strom Trail to Halfway Lodge The adventure continues as you journey 9 miles southward to Halfway Lodge. The rugged peaks of the Sundance Range loom over the eastern horizon as you follow the winding historic Erling Strom Trail. Tonight we’ll stay at Halfway Lodge, constructed by Erling Strom in the 1920s. With propane lanterns and candles providing lighting and a woodstove providing warmth, it hasn’t changed much in the last 80 years. Day 3: Climb Allenby Pass on Horseback to 8,100 feetToday you’ll make the thrilling climb up Allenby Pass on horseback, an elevation of 8,100 feet. For many this is the highlight of the trip, as you’ll get a breathtaking view of the jagged rock formations, the enormous amphitheatre of mountains stretching out all around you. Day 4: Rest Time to enjoy the Backcountry Today is a rest day at Halfway Lodge. An optional hike is available today to a shimmering glacial fed lake at the end of the valley, where you can enjoy views of the valley below. Day 5: Follow Brewster Creek to Sundance LodgeYour guide will lead you through the backcountry on a scenic and exciting trail, criss-crossing the valley in the historic footsteps of the early pioneers and stopping for lunch along the way. You’ll arrive back at Sundance Lodge again, a luxurious retreat you will have fallen deeply in love with. Day 6: Return to Warner StablesIt’s your final day on the trail – a gentle 9 mile ride from Sundance back to Warner Stables. You’ll stop along the banks of Healy Creek for a lunch of fresh sandwiches, baked goods and fruit. You’ll return at approximately 4:30 pm, with plenty of great tales from the backcountry to tell your family and friends.