Alpine Stables

Alpine Stables is a horseback-riding outfitter on Marquis Road in Waterton’s townsite. Guides take riders into the park on trails that range from easy hour-long outings to full-day trips. First-timers are welcome, and horses are matched to a rider’s experience and comfort. If you want to see more of the valley without hiking the whole way, this is a good option.

One-hour rides head either into the hills around Lonesome Lake for a Waterton Valley view, or across aspen woods and flower meadows at Blakiston Fan to Middle Waterton Lake. The route varies, so ask which loop is running. Two-hour rides add water crossings and more viewpoints.

The five-hour Lion’s Head ride climbs switchbacks partway up Vimy Mountain, then leaves the horses for a short, challenging hike to an overlook above Middle Waterton Lake. Other day rides reach places such as Twin Lakes and Snowshoe Cabin, Vimy Mountain’s upper slopes, or Horseshoe Basin. These trips take a big part of the day; the Vimy outing also includes a hike.

The rides cross wildlife habitat. Deer, elk and moose are among the animals the stable says riders commonly see, though there’s no guarantee you’ll spot any.

Dee and Lorna Barrus started the Waterton operation in 1969 with about 25 to 30 ranch horses. The Kenow Fire destroyed the original barn and other buildings in 2017; the family moved into rebuilt buildings in 2020. The family says the riding tradition now reaches its fifth generation.