Horseback Riding in Canada

Equestrian Adventures at Clayoquot Wilderness Resort

It would be difficult to imagine a more lush and diverse landscape to explore and traverse on horseback.  A variety of popular outings, varying in length from one hour to six hours, cover a vast range of terrain, including river valley meadows, old-growth forest, Jurassic fern gardens, glacial river crossings, and abandoned gold mines. 

A beautiful two-kilometer ride up valley from the Outpost, our main horse barn, paddocks, and pasture are home to 30 horses for guest and guide use, plus two Norwegian Drafts to pull the wagon.

River Trail

Duration:

1.5 Hours

Difficulty:

Beginner

This scenic, gentle ride travels alongside the Bedwell River and through second-growth forest. Observe an 800 year old nursing log and a bear den. This ride is great for first time riders or for those that are getting back in the saddle and looking to instill or regain confidence. 

Fir Tree Trail

Duration:

2 Hours

Difficulty:

Beginner/Intermediate

The Fir Tree Trail is an extension of the River Trail and allows for up to two river crossings through the glacial waters of the Bedwell River. Enjoy the serenity of the old growth forest and stop for a great photo opportunity on a sandy beach. If time allows, there is the option to extend this ride or pick up the pace. 

Tent in the Tree Trail

Duration:

2 Hours

Difficulty:

Beginner

Experience the famous old "Tent in the Tree" on this gentle ride through Jurassic ferns and lush rainforest along the Bedwell River. The two-story tent was built in the mid 1990's by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans for use during their salmon monitoring projects. If time allows, there is the option to extend this ride or pick up the pace. 

Hitching Post

Duration:

2.5 Hours

Difficulty:

Intermediate

An enjoyable intermediate ride that takes you to our island trail and popular hitching post. Hitch up the horses for a rest and a picnic lunch at a beautiful spot along the river. This is a great trail to snack on huckleberries, thimbleberries and salmonberries.  If time allows, there is the option to extend this ride or pick up the pace. 

Guppy's Cabin

Duration:

2.5 - 3 Hours

Difficulty:

Intermediate/ Advanced

Experience gold miner Walter Guppy's historical cabin deep in the forest on this beautiful ride alongside the river. It is a flat ride but a longer time spent in the saddle.  There is the option to pick up the pace on this ride. 

Ursus Valley Loop

Duration:

3 Hours

Difficulty:

Intermediate/ Advanced

Two river crossings and the opportunity to pick up the pace make this the perfect ride for experienced riders. Ride alongside both the Bedwell and Ursus Rivers through old growth forest.The Ursus River boasts some of the most clear bright blue waters you will ever see. 

Ursus Full-Day Ride

Duration:

4-6 Hours 

Difficulty:

Advanced

Suited to experienced riders seeking a long and challenging ride through old-growth forest. This ride is an extension of the Ursus Loop, and offers multiple river crossings and a chance to see the Ursus Cascades and snack on abundant untouched blueberries. Opportunities for faster pace riding, swimming, photography, and short hikes. Picnic lunch provided. Riders must be 13 years of age unless approved by wranglers.

Custom Ride

Duration:

1-6 hours

Difficulty:

Beginner through Advanced

If you’ve been dreaming of the ideal ride, or fancy a ride combined with an activity, picnic lunch or dinner – let us know and our wranglers will do their best to make your dream come true.

Each morning, wranglers ride and guide the day’s contingent of on-duty horses to a lower barn located within easy walking distance of guest tents.  Guests are suited up with supplied Western-style boots and gear, then set out across the valley bridge, up alder alley, past the turquoise blue pond, and off and away.

Riders and horses are paired based on age and experience, and every effort is made to ensure that guests are challenged if they wish to be, or quietly guided if they prefer. Inexperienced riders receive excellent instruction before leaving the barn area.