Horseback Rides
Spectacular
Horseback Rides
Riding a horse through the mountains is like being transported to another world, a world of breathtaking beauty and majesty. The landscape around you is a tapestry of meadows, wildflowers, lodgepole pines, and quaking aspen trees, and the air is alive with the sound of nature.
- 95% of our guests have never ridden a horse before.
- We specialize in Kid-Safe and Husband-Safe Horses.
- Limited to one 5 or 6 yr old on the 1.5-hour ride.
- And NO, you do not book your 5 or 6-1/2 yr old as a 7-yr old to bypass the terms.
2 Hours 
Private Horseback Rides
Available for all trail rides. Taking a private horseback ride (= costs more) can offer several advantages over a group ride. Here are some reasons why you might want to consider a private horseback ride:
- Personalized attention: Your guide tailors the ride to your skill level.
- Flexibility: Schedule your ride at a convenient time.
- Privacy: Enjoy the experience without strangers.
- Safety: One-on-one guidance, ideal for beginners.
- Special occasions: Great for birthdays, anniversaries, or romantic outings.
Additional information
- Our guides are educated in natural horsemanship skills and share their knowledge of Vail’s history, flora, and fauna.
- All riding levels are welcome!
- 5 yrs+ (limited availability for 5 and 6 yr olds)
- 1.5 hour, & 2 hour rides.
- For private rides: Min. 3-person charge at double the price.
- Does not include gratuity for the guide.
- Any ride 5 yrs and up when you book private.
- 7-day cancellation policy for a full refund.
- Goat Area Admission: $10 – Separate activity from Horseback Riding.
Trail Ride Experience
As you ride through the meadows, the sun warming your skin and the wind in your hair, you feel a sense of peace and tranquility wash over you. The gentle sway of the horse beneath you is like a lullaby, and you are lulled into a state of pure bliss.
The wildflowers are a riot of color, their petals reaching for the sky in a joyful celebration of life. Butterflies flit from flower to flower, and the air is sweet with the scent of blossoms. The lodgepole pines tower above you, their trunks straight and true, their branches reaching towards the sky. Their needles create a dappled shade that is cool and refreshing, and you feel a sense of awe at the majesty of these ancient trees.
Wildlife abounds in these mountains, and you may catch a glimpse of elk, deer, or even a black bear as you ride through the forests. The animals seem to sense your presence and regard you with a wary eye, as if wondering what this strange creature on horseback is doing in their territory.
And then there are the aspen trees, those quaking sentinels that stand guard over the mountains. Their leaves shimmer and shake in the breeze, creating a music all their own, and you are struck by their beauty and grace.
Riding a horse through the mountains, through meadows, wildflowers, lodgepole pines, and aspen trees, is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. It is a journey of the soul, a communion with nature that is both humbling and inspiring, and it is something that every person should have the opportunity to experience at least once in their lifetime.
Age Definition
Limited to one 5 or 6 yr old on any one ride.
Definition of 5 or 6 yr old: A human that has existed between 1,825 days and 2,554 days outside of the womb.
G.O.A.T. Happy Hour
Available starting at 11am, most days, until 5pm.
Pet the goats, feed them, take selfies, pet and brush the pony.
$10 admission.
Trail Ride Comparison
| Trail | Time | Ages | Viewpoints | Aspens | Lodgepoles | Creek | Wildlife | Technicality | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rocky Point | 1 Hour | 5 yrs+ | 2 | Yes | No | No | Sometimes | Easy | 9200ft |
| Bear Hollow | 1.5 Hours | 5 yrs+ | 2 | Lots and Lots | No | Yes in AM | Sometimes | Moderate | 9400ft |
| Dark Timber | 2 Hours | 7 yrs+ | 3 | Even More | Yes | No | Sometimes | Moderate + | 9600ft |
| Elk Springs | 4 Hours | 5 yrs+ | 3 | Millions | Hundreds | Yes, Yes, Yes | Sometimes | Challenging | 10,300ft |
Important policies & tips for your visit
Considerations for Group Rides
Naturally, kids are excited and chatty.
If you are the grumpy type or the type who raised your kids and are over that stage, or left your kids at home for an adult vacation, you may prefer an adult-only ride or a private ride.
Group rides include all types and all levels of riders.
Book something appropriate for your personality type and your riding expectations.
If you select the group ride, don’t expect us to feel sorry for you when you complain about the normal things that occur.
If you select the Adult-Only ride and the adults end up whining or letting their horse eat and you feel disgusted, know now you should book a private ride.
If you are an expert rider and have your own horse, we are wearing ear plugs.
Rules and Restrictions
NO NO Double Double Riding Riding
STRICT Weight Limit: (220lbs < 6′), (240lbs < 6’4″), (260lbs).
Arrive at the Reservation Time
Booking Upgrades
- In order to upgrade to Private Ride or Adult-Only Ride (18 yrs+), please call to book.
You cannot do it online.
Read the FAQs here, before you call, because our hands are full!
Plan your adventure now!
Extremely family friendly. Relax in our gliders with a stunning view of the slopes. We have cold beer and wine for the adults, soda and juice available for the kids. Take a selfie with the goats, roosters, ponies and horses. Feed them some treats and enjoy the chill vibe of farm life in the Rockies. Check the schedule online for reservations. (Random days available)
