Horseback riding

Backcountry trails are just the thing for that relaxing ride out and you have several options to choose from. Here are a few helpful tips for enjoying your visit with your equine partner.

• Remember to be wildlife aware, this area is home to many species both big and small. There are free roaming horses in the hills.
• We ask that horses do not enter the fort walls, the Métis cabin area or the Métis Trail. Watch for signs as other sensitive trails may be off limits to horses at different times of the season.
• There is a hitching post on the back side of the fort.
• Water is readily available for your horse from Battle Creek.
• Pack a picnic as there are picnic areas in the park. Horses, while hobbled, or tethered may lightly graze in the park. Avoid grazing crested wheatgrass after May 31st to avoid the spread of this non-native plant species. Crested Wheatgrass is an aggressive, exotic plant that is a threat to native prairie.
• Protect your horses against West Nile Virus.
• Caution! Extreme fire risk and horseshoes can be a bad combination. Sparks may result from a horse clipping a rock with their shoes.
• If you are unsure, carry a map. Due to the location cellular service may be difficult to obtain anywhere in the area.

Equestrian Camping is available in the Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park. If you have any questions about visiting with your equines please contact us!

Just a Reminder: Even though you are trail riding through the grounds of the historic site, visitor admission fees still apply! Please stop at the Visitor Centre when you arrive on site.

Point of Information: Please be aware that Fort Walsh does engage in historic weapons demonstrations which involve rifles and/or a nine-pound field rifle. Inquire at the Visitor Centre for demonstration times and exercise caution when horseback riding during time of demonstration.