On the benchlands immediately behind the town of Jasper is Pyramid Riding Stables (Pyramid Lake Rd., 780/852-7433). The stables offer one-, two-, and three-hour guided rides for $45, $70, and $95, respectively. The one-hour trip follows a ridge high above town, providing excellent views of the Athabasca River Valley. Skyline Trail Rides (The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, 780/852-4215) offers a one-hour guided ride around Lake Annette ($39 per person) and a two-hour ride along the Valleyview Trail ($60 per person). Both companies operate mid-April–October.

Overnight pack trips consist of 4–6 hours of riding per day, with a few nights spent at a remote mountain lodge where you can hike, boat, fish, or ride. Rates start at $180 per person per day for meals, accommodation, and a horse, of course. For details, contact Skyline Trail Rides (780/852-4215 or 888/852-7787, www.skylinetrail.com) or Tonquin Valley Adventures (780/852-1188, www.tonquinadventures.com).