Back Country Horsemen Society of BC
A province wide society of over 750 members in 16 regional chapters
Whether you are new to trail riding or are a seasoned pro, Back Country Horsemen of BC (BCHBC) offers a friendly atmosphere for those interested in trail riding and packing. The organization focuses on safety for horses and riders, environmental stewardship, trail building and maintenance, ... and fun!
Need to contact us by good old-fashioned 'Pony Express?'
BCHBC is a 100% volunteer-run organization and we do not have a formal or permanent head office location. If you need to contact us by Canada Post please email the Society This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for an appropriate mailing address.
To learn more about BCHBC you may also contact anyone on our Board of Directors or the Chairman of a Provincial Chapter near you. Come horse around with 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 Pacific Crest 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 together recreational riders. Today, Jim is still a quiet driving force that 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 rest is our history.
BCHBC today provides:
• An environment for equestrians who are interested in trail riding and the back country;
• A social, safe learning atmosphere where people of all ages and experience can enjoy trail riding and the wilderness experience.
Through collaboration with countless individuals, government, business and other recreational users of public land , BCHBC strives to preserve and enhance the use of public lands for all equestrians.
Membership Benefits
Experience our beautiful BC trails by riding on safe, casual day rides or, for the more adventurous, learn the necessary skills to enjoy packing on extended trips into the wilderness.
Participate in educational clinics, safe day and overnight rides, trail days, and the "Leave No Trace" Program.
Attend our annual Rendezvous. This is a three-day fun-filled event for you and your equine.
- Learn: Whatever the question, another member is waiting to share their knowledge with you.
- Recognition: Our members are involved with provincial and municipal governing agencies dealing with matters of concern to all trail riders.
- Find: new friends with a passion for trail riding
- Make a difference: participate in work bees to help maintain and building trails in your area.
Organizational Structure
We currently have 16 Chapters throughout the Province. Some have as many as 75 members and others as few as 16.
Each Chapter:
• Holds regular meetings, events and rides.
• Has its own priorities and projects such as saving a regional trail or holding yearly poker rides to raise money for facilities or equipment.
• Elects executive positions, as mandated by BCHBC Bylaws and Constitution.
One elected representative from each Chapter attends the Provincial Board of Directors meetings that are held twice a year. These meetings deal with issues that affect all Chapters including education, publicity, finances, policies and events such as the Annual General Meeting and meet-up event we call Rendezvous.