Horseback Riding in Kamloops: Exploring the Region on Horseback

Erin Valley Riding Stables

Erin Valley Riding Stables, located just 15 minutes from downtown Kamloops, has been a family-owned business since its establishment in 1986 by Henry and Maxine Mills. Initially operating on Erin Valley Road, the couple moved from Utah to pursue their dream of owning a ranch in Canada. After a few years, they relocated the business to its current location on Barnhartvale Road, designing each building with a specific purpose and ensuring access to extensive trails backed by crown land.

The stables offer services catering to all ages and skill levels, including trail riding, horsemanship lessons, horse camps, and specialized events.

Lessons

With over 30 years of experience, Erin Valley Riding Stables offers a comprehensive lesson program to teach individuals how to ride, understand, and communicate effectively with horses. Their approach is based on the "Training Thru Trust" method, emphasizing clear communication and horse psychology to build a strong bond between rider and horse. The program is progressive, starting with basic horsemanship skills and advancing as the student develops. They offer group and private lessons to accommodate different learning preferences and schedules.

For those interested in rodeo events, Erin Valley provides specialized classes focusing on barrel racing, pole bending, and roping. Their Beginner Rodeo lessons cover the fundamentals of these events, teaching students how to warm up horses and perform training exercises properly. The program emphasizes technique and slow work before adding speed, ensuring a solid foundation for riders pursuing rodeo activities.

Camps/Events

Erin Valley Riding Stables offers a variety of camps and events tailored to horse enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. Their Beginner Horsemanship Camps are designed for children aged 6 to 15, focusing on horse safety, grooming, riding, liberty work, obstacle courses, and horse psychology. These half-day camps aim to build confidence and foundational skills in young riders. For those interested in rodeo, the Beginner Rodeo Camps introduce participants to barrel racing, pole bending, and dummy roping, emphasizing basic horsemanship and riding skills. These camps are available in one-day or three-day formats.

In addition to camps, Erin Valley hosts Toddler Events, providing 45-minute sessions where young children can enjoy a horseback ride, grooming, and a farm tour to see various animals. For special occasions, the stables offer customizable Birthday Party packages, including riding lessons or group trail rides, with optional access to "The Shack"—a facility equipped with tables, chairs, and indoor games. These offerings ensure memorable experiences for participants and their families.

Trail Rides

Erin Valley Riding Stables, located just 15 minutes from downtown Kamloops, offers guided trail rides through the scenic landscapes of British Columbia. Each ride is led by an experienced wrangler, ensuring safety and an enjoyable experience for riders of all skill levels. The stables provide a variety of horses and trails to accommodate beginners and seasoned riders.

With a commitment to providing a welcoming environment, the Mills family ensures that every visitor feels at home, whether new to horseback riding or having years of experience. Their mission is to teach people to understand, communicate, and have fun with horses, fostering a love for the Western lifestyle and the therapeutic benefits of being around these animals.

Inspire Trails

Inspire Trails, near Kamloops and Merritt, offers horseback riding experiences through the scenic Thompson-Nicola region. Founded by Jordan, an experienced horse trainer with international experience in Texas, Africa, and Europe, the establishment focuses on rescuing and training horses, providing them with renewed purpose. Jordan's background includes guiding horseback safari tours in Africa, which inspired the creation of Inspire Trails. Since 2017, Jordan has been in Canada, and together with her husband Steffyn and their child Henry, they manage the operations.

Trail Rides

The facility offers a variety of trail rides suitable for different experience levels. The Little Lake Trail is a beginner-friendly ride lasting up to an hour, featuring river crossings and potential wildlife sightings such as otters, beavers, and owls. For those seeking a longer adventure, the Mud Lake Trail extends up to 90 minutes, traversing open trails, forests, and hillsides with views of local wildlife, including bald eagles. The Two Lake Trail, lasting up to 2.5 hours, guides riders around two lakes, offering elevated views and the possibility of encountering moose.

Lessons

In addition to trail rides, Inspire Trails provides lesson programs tailored to individual needs, emphasizing safety and enjoyment. The facility is family-friendly and accessible, ensuring a welcoming environment for all visitors. Operating seasonally, Inspire Trails is currently closed for the season but is accepting bookings and offering gift certificates for the upcoming year. Potential visitors can contact them via phone or email for directions, bookings, or further inquiries.

Sun Peaks Stables

For a mountain riding experience, Sun Peaks Stables is the perfect choice. Located in the Sun Peaks Resort area, these tours use ski and walking trails to offer riders access to some of the region's most serene landscapes. If winding through wooded paths or enjoying views of the village below, these rides combine relaxation and exploration.

Sun Peaks Stables caters to riders of all experience levels, making it an excellent option for families or individuals looking to try horseback riding for the first time. Their well-trained horses and experienced guides ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.

Lessons

Their private group lessons, accommodating up to three participants, focus on grooming, horse care, and English-style riding, with 40 minutes of riding time in a one-hour session. For a personalized approach, private lessons are available, tailored to individual needs. Additionally, the stables provide a unique "Learn to Drive" experience, where participants can groom and ground-drive draft horses, learning about harnessing and care. Sun Peaks Stables prioritizes safety and education and is open to individuals aged five and older, making it an excellent choice for developing equestrian skills.

Trail Rides

Sun Peaks Stables, located in Sun Peaks Resort near Kamloops, offers guided horseback trail rides suitable for beginners and experienced riders. Their Village Views and Valley Trails is a two-hour experience that includes approximately 90 minutes of riding through resort areas, providing views of the village and opportunities to observe local wildlife such as mule deer and black bears. For more seasoned riders, the Mt. Morrissey Summit Ride is a four-hour adventure featuring about three hours of saddle time, traversing forest trails with panoramic views of the village and golf course. Participants must be at least 10 years old, and helmets are mandatory for safety. Each session begins with meeting and grooming the horses, fostering a connection before the ride. Advanced booking is required, with a minimum of two guests per tour and a maximum of six to ensure a personalized experience.

Sleigh Rides

Sun Peaks Stables offers horse-drawn sleigh rides from December to April, providing a memorable way to experience the winter landscape of Sun Peaks Resort. Departing from locations near the Village Day Lodge and The Coast Sundance Lodge, these 40-minute tours begin with a leisurely journey through the village, accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of hooves and sleigh bells. The ride then proceeds into open areas, offering views of the surrounding valley and mountains before returning via gentle ski runs. Passengers are advised to dress warmly; blankets are provided, but bringing additional layers is recommended. While hot beverages are welcome, alcohol is not permitted during the ride.

A Unique Way to Explore Kamloops

Horseback riding in Kamloops is more than just an outdoor activity; it's an opportunity to see the region's diverse landscapes from a new perspective. If you're meandering through the trails of Erin Valley, spotting wildlife at Inspire Trails, or enjoying a guided ride at Sun Peaks, each experience offers a memorable way to connect with the natural world.

With options for lessons, trail rides, and immersive camps, Kamloops caters to riders of all skill levels. For those seeking adventure, relaxation, or a closer connection to nature, horseback riding in Kamloops is an experience not to be missed.