Want to try something uniquely Alberta?
Welcome to the world of Equestrian Skijoring, a winter spectacle as thrilling as any stampede. It combines the daring of downhill sports with the rugged charm of the Western lifestyle.
Skijoring, although not originally from Alberta, has been embraced and transformed by Albertans into an event that epitomizes our adventurous and creative culture.
Picture this: rugged riders atop majestic horses, racing across snowy landscapes, towing skiers or snowboarders, and sometimes people in a clawfoot tub behind them!
That’s just Alberta wild!
Banff Snow Days
Banff Snow Days Festival is an annual skijor event that showcases the best of Albertan horsemanship, ski prowess, creative costumes and just plain tom-foolery.
This year, the festival was held on January 20, with Banff’s main street transformed into an equestrian track complete with ski jumps.
Fifty truckloads of snow, and a little creative staging, created a spectacle for hundreds of spectators.
The crowds witnessed the incredible athleticism of riders, skiers and horses and, of course, more than a few thrills and spills.
Blending old-school cowboy with modern ski gear gave the event a signature Alberta feel.
And, of course, the setting was world-class!
Try it Yourself
But skijoring in Alberta isn’t just for the elite athletes.
It’s an inclusive sport, welcoming everyone with a sense of adventure.
For instance, Hartell Homestead near Diamond Valley, and Trails End Beef near Nanton, are both offering skijor days this winter so that novices can give the sport a spin.
Sam Mitchell, the founder of Skijor Canada, perfectly captures the essence of this sport: “It’s a cocktail of skills, athleticism, adrenaline, style, and fun.”
He emphasizes how Skijoring brings together diverse communities – riders and sliders, each appreciating the other’s abilities.
The sport isn’t limited to just horse and ski.
Now Add Cheese!
Alberta takes it a notch higher with Skijordue, a quirky event that combines Skijoring with fondue.
Picture a blistering blend of snow, speed, style, and cheese, set to take place on March 2 at Millarville’s racetrack.
Talk about blending tradition with innovation!
This fusion, as Mitchell puts it, is a “mashup – it’s old and new, it’s high tech and old school.”
Everyone is welcome, and the more unconventional, the better.
It’s a celebration of Alberta’s cultural tapestry, where cowboy hats meet ski helmets, where the thrill of the rodeo meets the rush of the slopes.
So, if you’re looking for an adventure that’s quintessentially Albertan, where you can taste the wild spirit of the West and the thrill of the mountains, look no further than Equestrian Skijoring.
It’s more than a sport; it’s a cultural phenomenon, a symbol of Alberta’s diverse and dynamic spirit.
