Six Places to Get Back to the Old West in Alberta’s Ranch Country

Ever fantasized about packing it all in, throwing on a Stetson and riding off into the sunset? If so, you’re in luck. Alberta is infused with a hearty dose of old-school cowboy culture. Trail rides, equestrian centres and authentic ranch experiences are found pretty much everywhere here.

That’s because farming and ranching have long been at the heart of the province. Since the first herd of breeding cattle was brought to the province by Methodist ministers in 1873, cowboy culture has thrived. Ranch life is such an integral part of Alberta culture it’s inspired books, movies and TV shows. Perhaps you’ve heard of Heartland? This series about Alberta ranch life is the longest-running one-hour scripted drama in Canadian television history.

In modern-day Alberta, there’s still more cattle than people. Better yet, there’s plenty of places to get a taste of the old west and real ranch life. Saddle up with these genuine experiences.

Heritage Ranch

This locally owned and operated ranch sits on 217 acres of municipal parkland in Red Deer, Alberta’s third largest city.  Heritage Ranch has an equine centre offering trail rides, pony rides, carriage rides in summer and sleigh rides in winter. They even have an experience called Ranch Tracker that lets you play at being a fugitive chased down on horseback. The ranch has an excellent onsite restaurant (go for the steak), and some experiences include dinner.

Wildhorse Ranch & Outfitters

Southeast of Rocky Mountain House, Diane and Bear at  Wildhorse Ranch and Outfitters provide ranch experiences through the lens of wellness. Specializing in multi-day horse camps and retreats, they also offer trail rides for day guests. Diane and Bear are horse people through and through, complete with cowboy hats and leather chaps. Both believe their horse herd is a gift from the Great Spirit. Bear's Indigenous ancestry gives him a unique perspective that he enjoys sharing with guests.

McKenzie’s Trails West

McKenzie's Trails West is a family run ranch that offers day rides and multi-day backcountry horse-pack trips. They’ve been situated in Alberta's David Thompson Country for more than 50 years. Riding in David Thompson Country, amid the foothills and Rocky mountains, is an incredible experience you won’t soon forget. In addition to rides, the facility offers horsemanship clinics, retreats and special events.

Rocking R Guest Ranch

Rocking R Guest Ranch has lovely bed-and-breakfast cabins less than an hour’s drive east of Calgary. There’s over a dozen horses steps away from the cabins, and ranch guests are invited to pet and pamper those neighbours. Guests can access a variety of different trail rides as well as a two-hour introductory lesson on horseback riding. For a full day of riding in Kananaskis Country, consider the Equestrian Adventure package. The Heartland Package includes a day exploring Heartland film sites and a second day learning horsemanship and riding skills.

Centre Peak High Country Adventures

On the eastern slopes of the Livingstone Mountains near Crowsnest Pass,  Centre Peak High Country Adventures offers private trail rides. The stunning rolling terrain is perfect for riding, and being third-generation ranchers, the guides know this land intimately. Opt for a half-day ride to Haig Lake near Castle Mountain Resort or saddle up for a western riding lessons. Also on offer are immersive ranch experiences where you can stay overnight on the ranch and ride during the day.

Bar U Ranch National Historic Site

An hour's drive southwest of Calgary on Alberta's Cowboy Trail (Highway 22) lies  Bar U Ranch National Historic Site of Canada. It's a place to uncover the colourful history of ranching in Alberta. You’ll learn about the mythical cowboys who helped establish one of the province’s most successful ranching operations. Bar U is one of the longest standing ranches in Alberta. This historic working ranch is open from May to September and is a great place to learn old-style ranching ways. Go ahead and try your hand at roping and other ranch skills.

During your visit you’ll spot cattle, horses, chickens and other farm animals. There’s also a cookhouse restaurant and a gift shop.