Sure, walking tours are fun, but how about taking a horseback ride through the Old West?! The best thing about this trail ride in Arizona is that no riding experience is required — even kids can partake in this cowboy adventure. Prepare for spectacular views and an all-around wonderful time when horseback riding in Flagstaff.
We already love Arizona – the scenery in Scottsdale, the hikes at the Grand Canyon – but Flagstaff is often an overlooked destination. If you’re eager to experience the desert in a new way, hop in the saddle and head out.
Try Horseback Riding In Flagstaff
The best way to explore Arizona’s Verde Valley is on horseback. Hosted by Wild Western Horseback Adventures, this scenic trail ride lasts approximately one and a half hours.
The trail ride is perfect for all skill levels, even beginners and kids ages 6+. Keep in mind that there is a weight limit of 250 pounds; pregnant guests are advised to skip the ride for safety reasons and enjoy the onsite petting zoo instead.
Make sure to arrive 30 minutes before the reservation time to meet your guide, sign a waiver, and partake in a riding demo. You’ll then meet your horse, mount up, and explore the Old West.
This beautiful tour is slow and gentle in pace, so there’s no need to be nervous, even if it’s your first time in the saddle. Along the way, your guide will discuss the fascinating history of the land. You’ll be greeted with breathtaking views of nature, including unique desert plant life and mountains in the distance.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. Speaking of animals, you’ll also ride by ranches filled with cows, goats, sheep, and horses. Texas longhorns and buffalo may also make an appearance, and Western facades will make you feel like you’re in an old-school Spaghetti Western film.
After the 90-minute trail ride, you can walk around the ranch and feed friendly animals, including goats, pigs, chickens, and mini ponies. Take your time and relax in the shade if visiting during a hot day, or sit by the fire during winter. There’s no need to rush, as the owners of this AZ ranch encourage you to stay a while and take in the scenery to your heart’s content.
It’s easy to see why this exciting excursion is consistently named one of the best trail rides in the state. Book reservations in advance and prepare for a memorable experience.
Best Trail Rides in Arizona
While the above horseback riding adventure is amazing, it isn’t the only place where riders can explore trails in the state. You’ll also have a great time on the following trail rides in Arizona.
1. Horseback Adventure through Sedona’s Wine Country
This horseback riding tour through Sedona’s Wine Country is hosted by Horsin’ Around Adventures. The 90-minute trip includes experienced guides who will take you through canyon terrain, including rolling hills.
The beauty-filled views overlook Sedona’s Verde Valley and a neighboring vineyard. The minimum age is seven and you don’t need to be an experienced rider for this riding adventure.
See Related: Best Weekend Getaways in the USA
2. Horseback Ride along the Old Mormon Trail and Joshua Tree Forest
Get a good night’s sleep before partaking in this five-hour horseback riding journey. This Northern Arizona adventure begins with an old-fashioned Western breakfast.
You’ll then head on a horseback riding tour that lasts for a few hours along the old Mormon Trail, Buffalo Point, and through Arizona’s Joshua Tree Forest. On the way back, you’ll stop by a gallery featuring local artists. This trail ride is suitable for ages 9+.
3. Off-Road Segway Tour in the Sonoran Desert
This one-of-a-kind Arizona tour is a trail ride with a twist. It’s known as the most unique adventure in the Phoenix area because not only do the all-terrain Segways go off-roading, but they’re also decorated with a (toy) horse head atop the handlebars.
The two-hour Phoenix tour offers an up-close view of the Sonoran Desert, where you’ll see many desert plants and possibly wildlife, too. You’ll also learn about Native American Yavapai culture along the way.
More Scenic Things To Do In Arizona
Even if you’re not keen on horseback riding, there is still plenty to see and do in Arizona. Here are some more fun ideas.
1. Grand Canyon Railway Round Trip Experience
No effort is needed to admire the Northern Arizona scenery from this round-trip train ride. Simply pay for a ticket, sit back, and enjoy spectacular views from an air-conditioned passenger car. The Grand Canyon Railway adventure lasts nine hours and runs on weekdays and weekends.
Before boarding the train, you’ll witness a staged Wild West shootout! You’ll then depart on a memorable journey along 64 miles of stunning scenery leading to Grand Canyon National Park. You’ll have time to access and explore the park before heading back.
See Related: Best Road Trips in the USA
2. Emerald Cave Clear-Bottom Kayak Tour
How about experiencing Arizona scenery from the water?! This half-day guided kayak tour is a two-mile paddle up the Colorado River and to Emerald Cave.
After stopping at the cave to admire the views and take photos, you’ll paddle back two miles, making for a four-mile total round trip. The adventure is approximately three to five hours long, and the best part is that the bottom of the kayak is clear — you can see everything underneath you!
3. Helicopter Flight over the Grand Canyon
Take your Arizona explorations to new heights with a helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan. The 45-minute tour features incredible views of the world’s largest ponderosa pines, the Painted Desert, Marble Canyon, and more.
There are a few departure times, whether you prefer a morning takeoff to start the day or a relaxing evening ride. Along with adults, children and infants may also board; up to nine travelers can experience this heart-pounding journey above open canyons.
Are there any horseback trail rides near Phoenix?
Is Flagstaff too far out of the way? Book this Horseback Riding Tour (with a cowboy lunch!) near Phoenix and live your wild west dreams. You’ll be able to experience the desert like it was in the old West days.
Are horseback riding tours safe?
While horses can be intimidating and large creatures, the horses and ponies used for tourist horseback rides are generally very tame. They know their job! To be more comfortable and safer in the saddle, wear long pants and a boot with a small heel to help your feet stay put in the stirrups. You can also ask your guide for a helmet. Not all ranches provide them, but some do, so it’s worth checking.
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