Mount up, partner, and enjoy the beautiful scenic tracks of the island's parks, hills and countryside. Trot the trails at an easygoing pace or revel in a lively gallop along an isolated beach.

Whether skilled or novice, large group or small, swing yourself up into a weathered saddle on a trusty steed - the island's friendly stables are waiting to help you play cowpoke for a spell!

Horseback riding opportunities range from two-hour jaunts to overnight trail rides. Scenic riding trails and multi-use trails that allow riding are located in several communities on the Islands, and professional guides lead tours for all skill levels into the countryside and along mountain trails.

The Saanich Peninsula is a bountiful countryside where rural and urban lifestyles blend together. Just north of Victoria, the Saanich Peninsula is a favourite among horseback riders. Riding stables and flower gardens are nestled alongside parks, campgrounds, old-growth forests and small farms.

Multi-use trails for horse riders and hikers:
Bear Hill Regional Park
Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park
Francis/King Regional Park
Galloping Goose Regional Trail
Horth Hill Regional Park
Island View Beach Regional Park and Campground
Lochside Regional Trail
Mount Work Regional Park

Other favourite destinations recommended for horseback riding tours include Duncan and the Cowichan Valley. A greater contrast is hard to find, which is what makes exploring this region so fascinating. There's plenty of easygoing adventuring to be found by sticking to the main routes, although everyone should treat themselves to a backroad or two where the valleys meet the Strait of Georgia. There are beaches here the likes of which are found nowhere else on the coast, with views that engender intimacy with the landscape, yet emphasize its isolation.

One of the best areas for equestrian adventures is the Comox Valley. Forested trails, alpine meadows and lovely mountain vistas highlight riding tours in this beautiful region. Located in the heart of some of the most beautiful farming landscape on Vancouver Island, nearby Courtenay, the urban centre of the Comox Valley, serves as a great base.

The charming seaside village of Comox, surrounded by a beautiful valley and the largest glacier on Vancouver Island also serves as a departure point for enjoying miles of sandy shore leading off both north and south of the quiet little coastal town.

The Gulf Islands: Snug in the Georgia Strait, between the mainland and the eastern side of Vancouver Island, are the BC Gulf Islands. Roadways and trails take you on a tour of natural beauty, leading you to hilltops for fabulous views and down to the beach for an afternoon swim. Each island has its distinctive charm - take your time as you meander through this laid-back region. Its rhythms are subtle, but with gentle probing they reveal themselves, showing greater complexity than first meets the eye.

The Pacific Rim region is another wonderful choice for horseback riding. Guided tours along old logging roads and white-sand beaches are offered - enjoy the breathtaking scenery!!