Riding is a physical experience. It brings all of our senses alive. It is the smell of a good horse, of leather, the fresh scent of a pine or fir forest, it is the sound of cantering hooves, of crackling leaves, of horses snorting or a soft whinny. It is the seeing of new country and spectacular vistas unexplored. It is the feeling of a strong animal beneath you, of you own strength and ability, and although few words are spoken, lines of communication between horse & rider are shared and understood. It’s the freedom to just ride for miles! The Chilko Explorer Ride was designed for the intermediate to advanced rider looking for an exciting riding adventure in breathtaking country while enjoying the comforts of a wilderness lodge at night. The daily rides from the lodge offer a variety of riding experiences - ride up Mount Tulin and enjoy some of the most superb views over Chilko Lake - then explore the Chilcotin Plateau with its open grasslands, rolling hills, numerous small lakes, adjacent mountain peaks with unmatched vistas and a couple of hundred miles of riding trails. You will love it! After an exhilarating day in the outdoors you can play volleyball or horse-shoes, relax in the whirlpool on the front porch overlooking the Chilko Valley; or just relax in front of the large wood-burning fireplace exchanging stories with your fellow riders. Exceptional meals and fine wines are served family style. On one day during the week you will take part in a float trip down Chilko River or sightseeing boat ride up Chilko Lake. Itinerary Sunday: A 9:30 a.m. charter flight takes you from Vancouver across the magnificent glaciers of the coastal mountains to Chilko Lake, where Karen McLean will greet you at the private landing strip of the ranch. After lunch and a short introduction you get a chance to test your horse on an afternoon ride. Monday: After breakfast we ride through fir forests to Green Lake. Along the way we stop for a picnic at the lake. In the afternoon there are some wonderful opportunities to canter on soft forest trails. Tuesday: We ride up the steep trails of Mount Tullin. The ride takes us through magnificent fir forests to the timberline. From the summit it takes a 20-minute hike to reach the top of the mountain. Soak in the panorama of the Coast Mountains and 55 mile long Chilko Lake with its turquoise waters and the breathtaking beauty of Tsylos Park. Wednesday: One day during your stay the riders will head up beautiful Chilko Lake. Pristine Chilko Lake is the largest natural high mountain lake in North America. Surrounded by glaciers, rugged towering peaks, roaring creeks and rivers, waterfalls, and of course the wildlife. Due to the glacial silt, Chilko Lake has a gorgeous turquoise coloring. The views, whether looking down on her or up from her, are unbelievable. You might have a chance to visit the old mining cabin at Franklin Arm and hike up to the waterfalls, or spend some time at a creek, fishing for Dolly Varden. This is a day that you will not want to miss! Optionally you will take part in a river float trip down Chilko River instead. Thursday: We enjoy many brisk canters across the Chilcotin plateau and along the Chilko river. Advanced riders will enjoy the "rollercoaster" rides on narrow, windy forest trails. Due to the fast pace of these rides you have to be able to develop a good feeling and communicate well with your horse. It is excellent for stretching your riding abilities and building your confidence. Both the horse and rider find it fun and challenging. But not to worry, the horses are well trained and easily controllable. We stop for a nice picnic by the river with its fast flowing waters. Friday: A long day-ride across the plateau to Choelquoit Lake with the opportunity to take a dip in the cool water. Enjoy a picnic at the sandy beach with awesome views of Niut, Chilko & Tsuniah mountains. Saturday: A brisk ride takes you along the Chilko river to Henry's crossing. Enjoy a well deserved lunch break on the only bridge that spans the river. In September you can watch natives fishing for salmon here. In the afternoon we canter along the east side of the river to Canoe Crossing always with the whole mountain range in clear view. The horses swim across the river and freely gallop home while a boat ride takes you back to the ranch. In the evening a fabulous farewell dinner with barbecue awaits you. Sunday: Return flight after breakfast or start of another wilderness ride. Subject to change due to weather etc. Notes: Rates include: 
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Also see tour packages in: Canada British Columbia Outdoor: Land Rambler Horse Riding Email it to a friend: Click here to email this vacation to a friend
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