Ya Ha Tinda Ranch/Bighorn Falls

I got together with some friends that I have known for years. I suggested a trip into the foothills to the Ya Ha Tinda area west of Sundre, Alberta. As you can see they have the ideal vehicle for this kind of thing. This trip was on May 29, 2016.

The Ya Ha Tinda is a private property owned and operated by Parks Canada and is not a National Park. This is the only Federally operated working horse ranch in Canada. Horses are wintered and trained here for use in patrolling Canada's western National Parks. Tours are available if you book one. My friends and I were there for the first time so we were just doing some exploring. 

The white paint for the "Ya Ha" on the sign needs to be repainted.

Just beyond is the ranch. Off to the right past the fences are elk and bison. The bison are part of a program to reintroduce them into the wild in this part of the province. I was not able to get any photos of them.

This is a big ranch.

We were here to get into Bighorn Falls. I had a vague idea where it was. There are no signs saying where it is or pointing the way. This creek looked like the way in.

You can follow the creek for a bit then you have to hike up the side due to the change in terrain.

Bighorn Falls and a great view.

Closer view of the top of the falls.

This turned out to be a living memorial.

Looking east from the top of the falls. The hike in is not that far. The day was a little dreary. I plan on going back in better weather.