Backcountry Horseback Riding
Pay homage to the heritage of our region and explore the many trails by horseback! The Similkameen has dozens of trails and some horse and rider campsites. Also, there’s a guest ranch for you and your horse to enjoy while you are here.
Princeton Area
There’s nothing quite like riding in the backcountry atop your favourite horse. Backcountry riding in the Similkameen includes China Ridge*, Kettle Valley Rail Trail, Hudson’s Bay Brigade Trail and more.
*There is no water up at China Ridge. Riders are advised to carry their own water and do day trips only.
View Backcountry horseback riding locations map
Provincial Parks
Cathedral Provincial Park is a beautiful place to explore with your horse. You can camp at Twin Butte Lake; however, you must get a permission letter first (call 250-490-8200 for info).
The maximum stay is three nights with up to six horses and four people. Please bring your own feed and move horses regularly to prevent overgrazing.
E.C. Manning Park has several trails you can access with your horse. Trails like Windy Joe and Little Muddy give some glimmer of what to expect on the trail. You can camp with your horses at Manning Park Resort at the Headwaters Corral. Camping is also available further into the backcountry at the Dewdney and Hope Pass trails.
Remember, whatever you pack in, you need to pack out.
Guest Ranch
At the A&P Guest Ranch, about 25 minutes north of Princeton on Hwy 5A, you can trailer in your horses and park onsite. If you don’t have an RV or tent, they have dorm rooms on the barn’s second floor. There’s also a three-story lodge with 10 bedrooms. Your horse can stay in the corral with or without feed or in the barn below the dorm rooms. No horse? No problem, they have horses on-site for you to ride. Please remember to bring your helmet and appropriate riding attire.
No matter what outdoor activity you are planning, be prepared. Follow the three Ts —trip planning, training, and taking the essentials. AdventureSmart is a great resource to help you get informed before heading outdoors.
Operator Directory
View Horseback Riding Operator Map
