We would like to acknowledge that the Alberta Mountain Horses inhabit the traditional lands of the Stoney lyethkabi, (mountain) people.

Over the years we have heard from the government and those opposed to the wild horses, that they have no economic value. Rubbish! As people become more aware that we have these iconic Alberta Mountain Horses, more and more are wanting to travel to Alberta to visit and photograph them in their natural surroundings.

The wild horses represent the free-spirit of Albertans and Canadians, which is becoming more important considering all the other things that are happening in this country. These magnificent horses have roamed throughout the province for a very very long time and embody resilience and freedom. The Alberta Mountain Horse holds a special place in our cultural and historical story. They are the enduring bond between nature and humanity. Understanding their rich history and current challenges will help us appreciate the complex legacy they carry and underlines the importance of ensuring their continued existence on the Alberta landscape. One of the best ways of doing this is through tourism and what better time to take advantage of this when more and more people are staying in Canada to enjoy all that this country has to offer.

Dr. Claudia Notzke, wild horse advocate, published a report based on a survey which showed an overwhelming number of respondents were interested in wild horse tourism. Her 2008 report was titled “The Role of Tourism in the Management and Protection of Wild Horses”. In the series of podcasts from The Wildie West, the latest interview was with Sandy Sharkey, a world renowned photographer. She talked about wild horse eco-tourism, outlining the great increase in people seeking out such an adventure. Here’s a link to the podcast.

https://msha.ke/thewildiewest

People from around the world continue to come to Alberta to witness the beauty of our province but especially that of the Alberta Mountain Horse. Over the years we are also seeing more tourist destination locations in the foothills starting to cater to this phenomenon. The one we are most experienced with is Sunset Guiding whose operators are so passionate and protective of the horses. They have rescued wild horses themselves and if you visit them they may introduce you to one of them – a first hand experience! They also have the odd herd come into camp to visit. Here’s a link to contact them and you can also follow them on their Facebook page.

www.sunsetguiding.com

Here are some pictures of the Alberta Mountain Horse and other wildlife you can see when you visit our beautiful province. These are some of the foals from past springs and if you come in the spring and early summer months you will be able to witness the new generation of beautiful horses.

No matter what time of year you come, you will have an opportunity to photograph and visit the herds with ever changing seasonal backgrounds.

There is so much other wildlife that you may have the opportunity to witness. All these creatures live throughout wild horse country with the Alberta Mountain Horses.

Your tourism and support can definitely help us in our struggles to protect and save our Alberta Mountain Horses. So pack your bags and cameras, stay here in Canada and visit us here in Alberta. You will find our hospitality to be friendly and welcoming. “Elbows up!”