Whoa Nelly -- Horseback Riding at Williston Lake Resort
January 3, 2008 | Tips from Us > Hudson's Hope, Horseback Riding
Tucked into the hillside 15 minutes from the picturesque town of Hudson's Hope is the Williston Lake Resort.
Named after the massive man-made lake created when the Peace River was dammed with the W.A.C. Bennett Dam , the Williston Lake Resort is a stunning log cabin style lodge with incredible views.
Hand-hewn pine logs were used to construct the building, with interesting branches and features left intact. The picnic table on the immense deck has been sculpted from one enormous log that juts from the wall of the building to form an enormous table and benches!
The lodge houses a range of accommodation, a bar and restaurant. As well, there are tons of activities that can be arranged with the help of the lodge staff.
The surrounding woodlands are full of trails perfect for horseback riding, ATV'ing and -- in the wintertime -- cross country skiing.
Our horseback tour guide, Heidi, was amazing. She helped us choose the right kind of horse for our riding level, saddled our horses and even provided a much-needed boost to get us up into our saddles!
Our horses were great -- perfectly suited to our personalities and comfort with riding. It didn't take long to sort out the pecking order -- who HAD to go first, who was a slow poke, who needed a firm hand. Heidi was a great teacher, encouraging us when we needed it and helping out when the horses decided they were in charge.
Our ride took us through serene wooded landscapes heavy with the scent of late fall. As my trusty steed swayed through the hot afternoon, I closed my eyes and pretended that it was still summer. But when I opened them, the bright mosaic of gold, green and red reminded me that summer was on the run and winter was just around the corner!
My companions and I were mightily surprised when Heidi started clear across a knee-deep stream tumbling swiftly down the valley. Fortunately, the horses weren't surprised and followed obediently across the ford (with the exception of one who needed to be reminded who the boss was!).
We stopped for lunch at a pictureque bluff overlooking a sparkling creek wandering through the valley. I was surprised at how good it felt to get off and stretch but not at how hungry I was! Riding is hard work! After a short doze in the sunshine, we were back in the saddle again, heading back to the Williston Lake Resort.
I'm not a regular rider but I have to say that this was one of the most pleasant afternoons I have spent in a long while.
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