Did you know that a stunning working horse ranch, backed by the Canadian government and open to trail riders, sits on the doorstep of the Rocky Mountains? Yes, it’s true. Ya Ha Tinda Ranch — owned and operated by Parks Canada — is the only federally run horse ranch in the country and marked its 100th anniversary in 2017.

With Scott Phillips of Amazing Horse Country - We often hear the term “dream horse” when riders are asked what they desire. But what do our horses want or need in their “dream human”?

Tim Mearns teaches bear awareness and wildlife safety as part of the Horseback Riding Backcountry Boot Camp. He imparts essential knowledge for anyone venturing into the backcountry. Basics are key, including proper handling of food, using bear-resistant pack boxes, knowing how to use bear spray and having it ready to go at an instant’s notice. Equally important is understanding bears and what is important to them, such as the changing of the seasons and the types of environments they prefer. In the spring, for example, females will be out and about with cubs, and in the autumn bears are intensely focused on food and fattening up for winter.

Autumn in Ontario is my favourite time of year, when Mother Nature paints the trees spectacular arrays of reds, yellows, and oranges, and rural roadsides are bordered with the brightly coloured seasonal decor. Algonquin Provincial Park, in Ontario’s southeastern region, is a popular spot to take it all in.