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From the Horse’s Mouth – Our Latest News
Back Country Horsemen Society of BC
We are a province-wide society, currently with 21 regional chapters
A member driven organization formed and registered as a Provincial not-for-profit society in 1991. From three or four chapters in its formative years, BCHBC has grown to 21 chapters representing many areas of the Province, from north to south and east to west.
In recent years (with the exception of 2020), BCHBC averaged over 900 members annually. A unique group of individuals, diversified in background, age and experience, who share a great appreciation for, and actively take part in, all aspects of recreational trail riding – front and back country, including trail building. An enthusiastic group that supports the many initiatives, projects and activities of BCHBC.
Are you new to trail riding or a seasoned pro? We offer a friendly atmosphere for those interested in:
- development and maintenance of new and existing trails, trailheads and campsites
- recreational riding
- camping with your equine partners
- horsemanship
- educational programs
- events and activities
- joining a group working together in support of our recreational passion
Don’t let our name fool you, at least half our members are women! Many members don’t ride the back country and some don’t even own horses … but all support our Mission and the work we do. To encourage the next generation of trail riders, youth registration is free. BCHBC focuses on safety for horses and riders, environmental stewardship, trail building and maintenance … and fun!
If you are interested in joining an organization with a recognized reputation of volunteerism towards supporting trail maintenance and development, meeting like-minded individuals, making new friends and trail riding – both front & back country, we look forward to meeting you!
Founded in 1989
ABOUT US
History of BCHBC
In 1989, in Langley, BC, a small group of equine enthusiasts were sitting around Jim and Marilyn McCrae’s dining room table talking about horses and trail riding. Their purpose was to form the Back Country Horsemen Society of British Columbia. Jim McCrae was the driving force behind that meeting. After his successful 1988 solo ride of the Pacific Crest Trail (Mexico to British Columbia) Jim had noted that whenever he needed assistance in his trek along the trail there were always members of a group – the Back Country Horsemen of America – willing to help him.
The following year, Jim participated in Washington State’s Wagon Train Centennial celebration. Again, the Back Country Horsemen were there. Jim realized that British Columbia could use an organization like this to band recreational riders together. Today, Jim is still a quiet driving force who never misses a chance to discuss Back Country Horsemen. With the combined good efforts of that small group, Back Country Horsemen Society of British Columbia (BCHBC) received official “Not for Profit” status on June 11, 1991.
The Back Country Horsemen Society of BC
Our Mission
BCHBC is an organization that provides equestrians who are interested in trail riding and the back country with a safe and social learning atmosphere where people of all ages can enjoy trail riding and the wilderness experience.
Through collaboration with individuals, government, business and other recreational users of public lands, we strive to preserve and enhance the use of public lands for all equestrians.
The organization focuses on safety for horses and riders, environmental stewardship, trail building and maintenance … and fun!
OUR MEMBERS SAY IT BEST!
Testimonials From Our Members
I love the Back Country Horsemen … for a lot of reasons but mostly to know the people who love horses and the culture the way I do … real people and common interests … a great feeling of warmth and understanding when you go to any gathering.
I joined to get involved with horses again and learn how to take care of them, meet like minded people and to have someone to ride with.
Since joining the Back Country Horsemen Northwest Chapter in summer 2020, I’ve met an amazing group of like-minded people who have helped me explore some spectacular areas with my horses. I’m inspired by how they have transformed many of their ideas into reality such as the development of Coalmine Camp and I’m excited to contribute, learn new skills and be a part of such a supportive, enthusiastic and knowledgeable group.
Growing up going on Back Country Horsemen rides are some of my fondest childhood memories. I’m so proud to now share the same community and values of exploring the backcountry in a respectful way with my son.
I joined BCHBC as I was excited to be a partner in the mission & vision – to build and keep trails open for all to enjoy. Through volunteering on committees & work bees, attending BCHBC events including inter-chapter rides, Rendezvous (RV), and Board of Director (BOD) meetings, I’ve made many new friends who share this passion. I’m grateful for the opportunity to ride in areas I may not otherwise have even known about!
I was new to horse ownership when I joined BCHBC Aldergrove chapter. The membership has been welcoming and generous with their time, knowledge and experience. I feel safe riding with them.
The Purpose of the Society shall be:
- To work together with recreational groups, government agencies and the general public to promote awareness and understanding for a cooperative wilderness experience.
- To build new trails, trailheads and other facilities for horsemen and women.
- To maintain and preserve existing equine trails – wilderness and urban.
- To promote educational programs in safety, courtesy and environmental awareness.
- To preserve access for Equestrians to use horses and mules (equines) on public lands.
Back Country Horsemen Society of BC greatly appreciates
Our Supporters
It goes without saying that our members are our most committed group of supporters; however, we are very fortunate to have a strong support group within our communities. From local businesses, other recreational user groups, friends and sometimes complete strangers who simply believe in our initiatives and wish to lend a hand wherever they can.
A number of businesses have supported our organization at a high level during Provincial fundraising initiatives for a number of years include Cavallo, CO-OP, Chilcotin Holidays and Tyax Adventures. We appreciate and value your continued support!
In 2020 with COVID-19 in full swing, an online auction was created in an effort to generate much needed funding. Members, families, friends and businesses supported us with dozens of “Adventures & Experiences” for all to bid on. It was a phenomenal success, raising roughly the same amount of funds that our annual Rendezvous would ordinarily do. Thanks to the many great experiences enjoyed by the previous year’s winners, our 2021 Online Auction held in December was a hit once again!
Click Here for information on the recent 2021 Online Auction fundraiser or here to view some of last year’s unforgettable experiences!
ATTENTION: For all equine related offers, valid membership with either Horse Council BC (HCBC) or the Alberta Equestrian Federation (AEF) is required for ALL participants.
Back Country Horsemen Society of BC
Activities & Upcoming Events
Click to access our “Event Calendar”! We encourage you to “Like” & follow our BCHBC Provincial Facebook page for up-to-date information and events as well.
Click here to view individual chapter profiles & local event calendars, as well as links to their FB groups.
Go to the RENDEZVOUS tab for up-to-date information on our annual 3-day interchapter event!
