Covered Wagon Ride in Banff: Bow River Wagon Tour & Western Cookout
Step into a covered wagon and glide along the Bow River toward a rustic cabin cookout beneath the Rockies. This family-friendly 2‑hour ride plus meal serves up big views, cowboy games and a straightforward taste of Banff’s backcountry hospitality.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early to check in
All guests must arrive 30 minutes before departure—late arrivals are not accommodated and the stable is a short drive from downtown Banff.
Dress in layers
River corridors change temperature quickly; windproof outer layers and a warm mid-layer make evenings and mornings comfortable.
Limit meal expectations
Menu is set (steak or vegetarian); the kitchen is remote and cannot accommodate substitutions or special requests.
Bring a camera with a zoom
Wildlife often stays near the riverbank—use a 200mm+ lens to photograph elk or waterfowl without disturbing them.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •3 Mile Cabin porch—great low-angle views of Bow River at dusk
- •A short riverside viewpoint near the ride turn-around where ice-formed patterns linger in shoulder seasons
Wildlife
- •elk
- •river otter (and abundant waterfowl)
Conservation Note
The stable operates within Banff National Park—stay on designated routes, pack out waste, and maintain distance from wildlife to protect habitats and visitor safety.
The Bow River corridor served Indigenous seasonal routes long before the railway and later ranching shaped Banff’s outfitting culture; covered-wagon experiences echo that frontier-era hospitality.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the front bench of the wagon for river and peak lines
- • 3 Mile Cabin porch for low-light river reflections
What to Bring
Windproof jacketEssential
Protects against chilly river winds during spring departures.
Layered clothingEssential
Easy to add or remove as temperatures swing between sun and shade.
Sturdy closed-toe shoesEssential
Useful for stable areas, the cabin yard and any short walks to viewpoints.
Binoculars or zoom lens
Helps spot waterfowl and elk from the wagon without getting too close.
Common Questions
How long is the wagon ride?
The ride portion lasts about two hours; the full experience, including the cookout and activities, takes roughly three hours.
Can I switch to horseback on the day?
No—this product is a wagon ride only and cannot be changed to a horseback option on site.
Is the meal flexible for dietary needs?
No—the kitchen operates with limited resources and offers only the set steak or vegetarian menus without substitutions.
Are children allowed?
Yes—children 17 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and waivers are required for minors.
Where do I check in?
Check in at the east barn marked 'Banff Trail Riders Stable' at the end of Sundance Road; it’s about a 5‑minute drive or 20‑minute walk from downtown Banff.
What happens in bad weather?
The operator may cancel tours in adverse weather; full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the departure time.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Banff, Alberta
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal walking and low physical strain required
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