Horseback riding for beginners

No. Most of our guests are beginners. We match each rider with a horse that fits their comfort level, give basic instruction before heading out, and keep the pace easy. Horses like Holly and Capitán have carried hundreds of first-time riders.

Yes. Rides go out with at most four guests, always guided, usually by Roberto, our caballerango with more than 30 years of experience, and Chris or Jeff, or both, usually ride along too. The horses are calm, well cared for, and know every trail. Guests consistently mention feeling safe in their reviews.

The same honesty applies to age. Trail rides are for riders 12 and up, or 10 for a child who is mature and has had enough lessons to control a horse on their own, since we do not put two riders on one horse. Younger children are welcome for a lesson or a pony ride in the arena.

Yes, with one honest limit. For trail rides we ask that riders be 12 or older, or 10 if the child is mature and has had enough riding lessons to control a horse on their own. Out on the trail a child needs to be able to handle their own horse, and we would rather say so than put a young rider somewhere they are not ready for.

Younger children are still very welcome. They can take a lesson or have a pony ride in the arena, where we are right beside them the whole time. Roberto teaches children's lessons on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons and has a real gift with young riders: patient, safe, and encouraging. Tell us your child's age when you write and we will tell you honestly what fits.

Closed-toe shoes, preferably with a small heel, long pants, sunscreen, and a hat that will not blow away. We mean that last part. A hat that takes off at a trot is a hat you will be walking back for. Leave dangly jewelry at home. Mornings and evenings can be cool in the high desert, so layers work well. We handle everything else.