Rider riding in the river on a ranch holiday
North America > Canada

Three Bars Ranch

Experience a ranch holiday in the Rocky Mountains, in British Columbia. Discover the beautiful scenery of this ranch located south of Banff National Park, with the perfect programmes for families and friends. In addition to excellent riding opportunities, the ranch also offers many other activities such as fishing, mountain biking, or shooting. Ideal for riders of varied abilities looking for a little bit of adventure in Canada!
Book now Print the details for this ride
Ranches and Cattle Drives
7 days (5 days riding)
From £1,920
Family holidays
from 6 y.o
Open to non-riders

From the horse’s mouth

  • Three Bars Ranch
    August 2022 EVA aged 46
    We had an amazing experience in Canada and all the help from Equus Journeys made everything very easy. The Ranch, the horses and the people were all amazing. Then all the trails with their views was so much better than expected. Everyday was a new adventure! My horse was Bently and he was exactly what I wanted. Being... Read all
  • Three Bars Ranch
    August 2022 LINN aged 30
    I had a lovely time at Tree Bars Ranch, the people and the horses were all great. The wranglers were early helpful and had a lot of fun conversations with you during your rides, breaks and dinner time. They also found different trails so never had to do the same trail twice. They also took into consideration to what... Read all
  • Wrangler bringing in horses at the Three Bars Ranch
    Ride with the cowboys (and cowgirls!) on a ranch holiday
  • Riders and horses riding out of a guest ranch in Canada
    There are many trail rides to be enjoyed at the Three Bars
  • Three riders on a ranch holiday in Canada
    Riding against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains
  • Rider on a trail at the Three Bars guest ranch
    A ranch holiday in British Columbia, Canada
  • A cabin at the Three Bar Guest ranch holiday
    After a day in the saddle, relax in your cosy cabin
  • Riding and kayaking on a river in British Columbia
    Non-riders are welcome and can enjoy other activities
  • The main ranch at the Three Bars, Canada
    Three Bars Ranch, British Columbia
  • Riders setting out on a trail ride in Canada
    Enjoy a guest ranch holiday in Canada
  • Quarter horses and guest horses in Canada, BC
    The beautiful horses of the Three Bars Ranch
  • Guests enjoying non-riding activities on their ranch holiday
    Enjoying non-riding activities - a perfect family holiday

Itinerary

Highlights

- High standard of accommodation and service
- Experience the fabulous scenery of British Colombia, just a few hours south of Banff National Park
- Varied activities, perfect for families and non-riders
- An excellent selection of horses for beginners to more experienced riders.
- Please contact us for your extension to Banff National Park and self-drive programs.

  • Day 1 1 : ARRIVE IN CRANBROOK

    Three Bars Ranch
    Flight to Cranbrook, in British Columbia (via Vancouver or Calgary). Flights are not included but can be booked for you on request.

    On arrival at the airport, you will be driven to the Ranch (approx. 15 min drive). You have time to settle and explore your cabin before meeting with your hosts and other guests over dinner.

  • Day 2 2 : RANCH - 2-5 hrs riding

    Three Bars Ranch
    After a copious breakfast, the staff will be waiting for you at the stables to introduce you to the horses. The stable manager will be sure to find the perfect horse for you, matching your riding abilities and expectations. Your horse will be yours for the duration of the stay (unless you'd prefer to change), giving you the opportunity to build a relationship with him.

    In the morning, the wranglers bring the horses in from the pastures. After a morning in the saddle, you get back to the Ranch for lunch before heading out on your afternoon ride. Back at the Ranch in the afternoon where you may choose to relax with a beer at the saloon or at the spa.

    IMPORTANT: Both the above and the following programme is provided as a guide, it is by no means exhaustive but reflects all of the activities in which you are able to participate.

  • Day 3 3 : RANCH - 2-5 hrs riding

    Three Bars Ranch
    After breakfast, you meet with your horse again for another trail ride across the beautiful countryside. Now that the wranglers know you better, the rythm will be a bit more pacey for those who want to. The Ranch is located between the mountains and the St Mary river, and the scenery is truly stunning! Back to the ranch in the afternoon for dinner and a good night's sleep.

  • Day 4 4 : RANCH - 2-5 hrs riding

    Three Bars Ranch
    You may choose to go on another trail ride this morning or to enjoy other activities at the Ranch: the choice is yours. Families can ask for specific rides and children can choose to ride or to discover life on a ranch with educational activities (mini-farm). At the end of the day, enjoy some time off to relax around the pool before a BBQ dinner.

  • Day 5 5 : RANCH - 2-5 hrs riding

    Three Bars Ranch
    The mountains are calling and are waiting to be explored on horseback! Depending on each group's preferences, you may ride into the mountains across the plateau or the river banks. After lunch, you are welcome to go on another ride or try your hand at fly-fishing, archery, or shooting.

  • Day 6 6 : RANCH - 2-5 hrs riding

    Three Bars Ranch
    Today is your last day on the Ranch. Today's ride may take you to the pine forests to discover the local wildlife and remarkable ecosystem. Lunch at the Ranch before your last trail ride in Canada. This evening, after dinner, a bonfire will be lit to enjoy smores and toasted marshmallows.

  • Day 7 7 : RANCH - CRANBROOK - DEPARTURE

    After breakfast, you are transferred to Cranbrook airport for your flight back home. If you are booking your own flights, please make sure to book a flight departing after 09:30 AM.

Dates & prices

Price details

- Flights to your destination (international/domestic) are not included, but can be booked on request - please contact us for rates.

- Rates a per person, based on two people sharing a double or twin standard room.

- The usual group size is 1 - 6 of international riders plus guide.

- Transfers are included and available from Cranbrook airport. First shuttle is 1:30 on day or arrival (please aim to arrive in the late afternoon at the latest), last shuttle is 11:30 am on day of departure.

- Non-riders welcome and benefit from a special rate - please contact us.

- Children aged 6-12 are welcome, with special discounts available (please contact us).

- If you sign up to the ride as a solo rider and there are no other riders likely to share your room, you will be charged a single room supplement of approx. £540/€650/$670 in the high season and £230/€275/$290 in the low season. You will then be reimbursed if a sharer is found for you at a later date.

- You can rent cowboy boots for CA$35 for the week

Activities included (depending on the season:
Unlimited guided horseback riding – every morning and afternoon (Mon-Fri).
Full multi-sport program.
Shooting sports (archery, clay pigeon and rim fire)
River Rafting (July and August only)
Guided hike , E-Bike tours & mapped hiking trails, & mountain biking.
Fly fishing equipment and unlimited access. fishing opens June 15th on the river.
River Rafting is not available in Spring or Fall (July and August only).
All ranch amenities - indoor heated swimming pool, hot tut, fitness facility & tennis.
Full evening entertainment program.

Additional activities that can be organised but are not included:
Guided fly fishing trips on the St. Mary’s River (Fishing is best mid July – Oct)
Massage by appointment at lodge.
Local Golf – 5 major – 18 hole courses within 20 minutes of the ranch
Private & semi-private riding lessons – ranch arena
Full service bar – Beer, wine list etc.
If you’re planning off ranch adventures you will need to rent a car.
Please Note
The itinerary may be modified at anytime for security reasons, meteorological or events beyond our control such as blocked roads, rivers in flood, drought, strikes and local holidays. Equus Journeys, our local partners and their local guides will always strive to find the best solution and will alter the itinerary as needed.
The names of the hotels and accommodation are given for information only and depending on availability, they may be modified without notice and replaced by another of a similar standard.

Price includes

Staff and guides

English-speaking guides and wranglers

Logistics

1 horse/rider

Domestic transportation

Return transfers from/to Cranbrook airport

Accommodation

Double room in a log cabin

Meals

Full board accommodation from dinner on D1 to breakfast on D7

Extra

Saddlebags

Extra

Gratuities
10% gratuity and 6,2% tax

Price doesn't include

Meals

Alcohol is not included (payable locally by cash in CAD or credit card).

Transports

Transfers outside normal hours
International flights

Insurance

Visas and personal purchase
Cancellation and travel insurance are not included in the above listed price. Please note that insurance is mandatory. We recommend taking out an insurance policy as soon as your trip is booked to cover you in case of cancellation

Optional

Accommodation

Single room supplement
  • Departure Return Price without flights Price including flights Status
    14/05/2023 20/05/2023 £1,920 €2,170 $2,381 Guaranteed departure Book now
    21/05/2023 27/05/2023 £1,920 €2,170 $2,381 Guaranteed departure Book now
    28/05/2023 03/06/2023 £1,920 €2,170 $2,381 Guaranteed departure Book now
    04/06/2023 10/06/2023 £1,920 €2,170 $2,381 Full
    11/06/2023 17/06/2023 £2,490 €2,814 $3,088 Full
    18/06/2023 24/06/2023 £2,490 €2,814 $3,088 Full
    25/06/2023 01/07/2023 £2,900 €3,277 $3,596 Full
  • Departure Return Price without flights Price including flights Status
    02/07/2023 08/07/2023 £2,900 €3,277 $3,596 Full
    09/07/2023 15/07/2023 £2,900 €3,277 $3,596 Full
    16/07/2023 22/07/2023 £2,900 €3,277 $3,596 Full
    23/07/2023 29/07/2023 £2,900 €3,277 $3,596 Full
    30/07/2023 05/08/2023 £2,900 €3,277 $3,596 Full
    06/08/2023 12/08/2023 £2,900 €3,277 $3,596 Full
    13/08/2023 19/08/2023 £2,900 €3,277 $3,596 Guaranteed departure Book now
    20/08/2023 26/08/2023 £2,900 €3,277 $3,596 Guaranteed departure Book now
    27/08/2023 02/09/2023 £2,490 €2,814 $3,088 Guaranteed departure Book now
  • Departure Return Price without flights Price including flights Status
    03/09/2023 09/09/2023 £2,490 €2,814 $3,088 Guaranteed departure Book now
    10/09/2023 16/09/2023 £1,920 €2,170 $2,381 Full
    17/09/2023 23/09/2023 £1,920 €2,170 $2,381 Guaranteed departure Book now

Equestrian info

Horses

Over 120 horses are available, with a great mix of horses for beginners to experienced riders. They range from the "bomb-proof" horse perfect for children and nervous riders to younger horses for riders who want a bit more of a challenge. You will be assigned a horse for the week that will not be shared with other riders.

Minimum riding ability

Minimum riding ability

This riding holiday is available for beginners and experienced riders alike. You will be divided into groups of similar levels. Children from 6 yo + are welcome as long as they are accompanied by a parent.

Weight limit: 270 lbs - 120 kg - 19 st

Pace

On the trails, the main pace is the walk but there will be trots and canters if you are able.

Tacking ability and participation

The wranglers will look after your horse (grooming, tacking and untacking). You are welcome to help if you'd prefer.

Trip conditions and Requested experience

No specific experience required. A good level of fitness is a plus, and an interest for the outdoors a must!

Riders who are unable to mount unassisted from the ground may not be eligible for fast rides.

Equestrian equipment

Western saddles and bridles, with saddlebags.
We recommend our riders to wear a helmet to the correct standard and you should bring your own to ensure a proper fit.

Travel info

Comfort

There is a selection of 21 cosy log cabins, renovated very recently in a tasteful rustic style. All amenities available (TV, hairdryer, wifi...). The main lodge comprises a beautiful dining room, relaxation room and saloon, a shop and a gym.

Families have the option of staying in bigger chalets that can accommodate up to 4 people. Please contact us.

Meals

Breakfast: sweet and savoury options, fruit, yoghurt, cereal, pancakes...
Lunch: hot and cold options, salads, grilled meats, dessert
Dinner: American style, potatoes, meat, salads, bread, dessert, BBQ dinners or Mexican dinners...

Extra drinks can be purchased locally.

Climate

Summers are nice and warm (25°C approx) with cool nights. The winters are cold with regular snow falls. The best time to visit the Ranch is between May-October.

Guide and local team

The Ranch is the year-round home of the Beckley family. Jeff and April, Tyler and Jenna, and Jesse and Dee share their western cowboy lifestyle of wide, open spaces and good friends with guests from around the world. The wrangler staff is a knowledgeable and energetic group of people who are chosen for their backgrounds with horses and their ability to have fun in a safe riding environment.

Tips

A 10% gratuity is included in the price. You may leave a little extra if you are happy with your stay.

Packing list

Please note that laundry services are available.

Head
- Equus Journeys strongly recommend that you wear a riding helmet and that you take your own to ensure a correct fit. There are many lightweight options available nowadays. Helmets are mandatory for children.
- Sunhat for when not riding
- Sunglasses - with a cord attached so they don't fly off when riding
- Buff or bandana

Upper body
- Long sleeved shirts provide protection from the sun and keep you cooler
- T-shirts
- Lightweight fleece or jumper
- Warm fleece or jumper
- Waterproof jacket - it can rain and there are frequent thunderstorms
- Swimming costume - for the Jacuzzi

Legs
- Lightweight, comfortable riding trousers or jodhpurs - we recommend riding in them at home before taking them on holiday to ensure they don't rub
- Casual trousers for the evenings, such as jeans

Hands and Feet
- Comfortable riding boots. We recommend short boots with half chaps but you may wish to take long chaps as an extra layer against inclement weather. We don't recommend taking your favourite long leather boots in case they get damaged
- Trainers or equivalent light shoes for moving around the ranch in the evenings
- Several pairs of socks
- Gloves - your hands are particularly exposed to the sun.

Evening wear
- Casual clothes for the evening

Nightwear
- Pyjamas or nightdress

Our Recommendations

- Backpacks cannot be worn whilst riding. We recommend a small bumbag or a coat with pockets so that you can carry small items with you during the day (passport, camera, sunscreen, lip balm etc)
- We recommend travelling in your riding boots and carrying your hat and some riding clothes in your hand luggage - then if your luggage goes astray you are still able to ride!

Other useful items
- Camera and high capacity memory card. Spare battery
- Bumbag for carrying your camera and small items whilst riding you can put them in your saddlebag
- Ear plugs (for light sleepers)

In your hold luggage
- Any liquids, such as shampoo, moisturiser, deodorant unless they are less than 100ml and all bottles can fit in a small, clear, plastic ziplock bag.

In your hand luggage
- Any valuables, such as your camera, ipod, ipad etc.
- Travelling in your riding boots and carrying your hat and some riding clothes is highly recommended - then if your luggage goes astray you are still able to ride!

Medical kit
- Any medication you regularly take
- Sunscreen and lip balm - should be high factor
- Insect repellent, preferably containing deet
- Blister plasters in case of any rubs
- Antiseptic cream, plasters, aspirin, anti-histamine, insect-bite salve etc...
- Spare prescription glasses/contact lenses
- Rehydration sachets

Miscellaneous
- We recommend taking a copy of your passport and insurance documents with you just in case.

Provided equipment:
- First aid kit
- Saddle bags
- Fully equipped room, with towels, bed linen etc
- Free laundry service

Visa & Health

Formalities

To find out if you need a visa and check formalities required, visit the official Canadian government website: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada.html

VISA AND ENTRY FORMALITIES
To enter Canada, a valid passport is required by all Australian, British and US nationals. All other nationalities should check with the local embassy. If you are travelling with children and only one parent is present, you should carry a letter of consent from the non-travelling parent.
UK Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs) are accepted for entry, airside transit and exit from Canada. You can apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation using an ETD.
Visa-exempt foreign nationals, such as British nationals, are now required to have an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada.
Applying for an eTA is a simple online process that takes just a few minutes. To apply, you must have a valid passport or acceptable travel document, a credit card, and an email address. You need to apply for an eTA before you book your flight to Canada. Most applications are approved quickly, even within minutes. However, some applications can take several days to process so don’t wait until the last minute.
You can find more information about eTAs and travel to Canada by following the link below: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada.html

In any case please check online the official government website for any updating or modification in the entry procedures.

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN
If you are travelling with children, and only one parent is present, you should carry a letter of consent from the non-travelling parent. Immigration officers have the right to question children using simple and appropriate language to establish whether there are any concerns about child abduction. A letter of consent may help to dispel potential concerns. For further information check with the Canadian High Commission or the Canada Border Services Agency.

TRAVELLING VIA THE USA
If you are planning on flying to Canada via the USA, You should complete an online pre-registration form on the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) website, before you travel. The US Customs and Border Patrol recommends that you do this at least 72 hours before departure. Applying for and securing an ESTA is a separate process to your Canadian eTA.

Addresses of consulates

  • Ambassade du Canada
    35, avenue Montaigne
    75008 Paris
    Tél. : 01.44.43.29.02
    Fax : 01.44.43.29.86
  • Consulat du Canada à Lyon
    21, rue Bourgelat
    69002 Lyon
    Tél. : 04.72.77.64.07
    Fax : 04.72.77.65.09
    consulatcanadalyon@wanadoo.fr
  • Canadian High Commission in the UK
    Canada House, trafalgar Sq
    Trafalgar Square,
    London
    SW1Y 5BJ
    SW1Y5BJ London
    Tél. : (020) 7258 6600
    Fax :
  • British High Commission in Canada
    80 Elgin Street
    Ottawa Ontario K1P 5K7
    K1P5K7 Ottawa Ontario
    Tél. : +1 613 237 1530
    Fax :
    ukincanada@fco.gov.uk
  • Ambassade du Canada
    Avenue de Tervuren 2
    1040 Bruxelles
    Tél. : +32 (0) 2 741 06 11
    Fax : +32 (0) 2 741 06 43
    bru@international.gc.ca
  • Ambassade de France au Canada
    42, Promenade Sussex
    Ottawa
    K1M 2C9 Ontario
    Tél. : +1 (613) 789 1795
    Fax : +1 (613) 562 3735
    politique@ambafrance-ca.org

Health

There are no health requirements to enter Canada as a short-stay tourist. Visitors intending to stay in Canada for more than six months, either as tourists, students or employees, may be required to take a medical examination. Visitors working in an occupation in which protection of public health is essential may be required to undergo a medical examination even if employment is only temporary. Check with the Canadian Consulate or High Commission for further information.

Insurance

It is a condition of your booking with Equus Journeys that you have travel insurance which covers you for the riding activities to be undertaken. Your travel insurance should cover you for medical expenses and repatriation. Your guides will require your travel insurance details before they allow you to ride and may refuse to let you ride if you cannot provide them. You should take your insurance documents with you.
Our recommendation:
Cancellation and travel insurances are not included. Please note that insurance is mandatory. We recommend to take out an insurance policy as soon as your travel is booked in case of cancellation.

Voltage

110-120 volts AC, 60Hz. American-style flat two-pin and three-pin (grounded) plugs are standard

Budget and money

Canadian Dollar (CAD; symbol C$) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of C$100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of C$2 and 1, and 25, 10, 5 cents. Although the 1c coin (or penny) remains legal tender, as of 2013 it is being phased out of circulation.
Major credit cards are widely accepted. Use of debit cards is widespread, although many stores impose a C$5 to C$20 minimum per debit card purchase, and service charges may apply.
ATMs are easy to find in populated areas but are less common in remote regions such as rural parts of the Northwest Territories, Nunuvat and Labrador. Use a machine affiliated with a major bank to reduce service charges; independent machines in locations such as casinos and convenience stores may carry high charges and do not always accept international cards.

Telephone and jetlag

Mountain Daylight Time (MDT) -0600 UTC
To call Canada, the following dial code is required.

+1 to dial Canada its 001 from UK
The populous areas of Canada along the border with the USA have excellent cellular and wired telecommunications, meaning that travellers are never far from an international phone call home, a WIFI connection or an internet cafe. Turn yourself and start heading north, and it's not long until the traveller will find themselves in the vast and sparsely populated lands that make up the majority of Canada. With no phones and no cellular coverage, and probably pretty sparse on power, it provides a great opportunity to unplug and get away from it all. In the northern reaches of Canada, above the arctic circle, you may even find that satellite devices might not work without a clear view of the sky over the equator.

Did you know?

Did you know?

Banff National Park is Canada's oldest national park, established in 1885 in the Rocky Mountains. It is the third-oldest national park in the world and declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984 due to its impressive scenic landscapes and wildlife. While riding in this breathtaking natural park, you will be able to see ancient  glaciers, many crystal-clear lakes and maybe spot a few of the  53 species of mammals (elk, bighorn sheep, mountains goats, moose, bears and wolves) that roam the area. The Park is open all year round, with peak seasons being  in July for the warm temperatures, and August for the possibility to see the Northern Lights. 

This ranch holiday is only a few short hours away from Banff National Park. After your ranch vacation, why not spend a few extra days in Canada and explore this beautiful part of the country?

Customer reviews

Customer reviews

All of our reviews are real, honest opinions from riders who have recently travelled with us. Upon their return, our riders will receive an email inviting them to share their experiences from their trip. Good or bad, each review will be published on our website, provided that they respect our editorial guidelines.
  • EVA aged 46 KOPING 1 trip
    August 2022
    We had an amazing experience in Canada and all the help from Equus Journeys made everything very easy. The Ranch, the horses and the people were all amazing. Then all the trails with their views was so much better than expected. Everyday was a new adventure! My horse was Bently and he was exactly what I wanted. Being... Read all
    • Horses
    • Programme
    • Accommodation
    • Local guide
  • LINN aged 30 London 1 trip
    August 2022
    I had a lovely time at Tree Bars Ranch, the people and the horses were all great. The wranglers were early helpful and had a lot of fun conversations with you during your rides, breaks and dinner time. They also found different trails so never had to do the same trail twice. They also took into consideration to what... Read all
    • Horses
    • Programme
    • Accommodation
    • Local guide