If you’re dreaming of seeing Bryce Canyon from a different perspective, this horseback ride might just be the highlight of your trip. Offered by Rubys Inn Adventures, this tour promises a 1.5-hour journey through the peaceful Dixie National Forest, culminating in breathtaking views of Bryce Canyon’s northern rim. It’s an opportunity to combine outdoor adventure with the chance to appreciate one of Utah’s most iconic landscapes — all on horseback.
We like how this tour balances scenic beauty with easy accessibility. It’s suitable for a wide range of riders, from complete beginners to those with some riding experience. Plus, it gets you away from the crowds, offering a more tranquil way to enjoy the canyon’s splendor. On the flip side, some might find the trail a bit underwhelming if they’re expecting extensive rim views. Still, if you’re after a relaxed, family-friendly adventure with knowledgeable guides, this is worth considering.
This experience is perfect for travelers who want a taste of the wilderness, enjoy gentle rides, and value authentic encounters. Whether you’re traveling as a family, a couple, or a solo explorer, it offers a memorable way to connect with Utah’s natural beauty.
Key Points
- Suitable for all skill levels: Beginners or seasoned riders will find this ride accessible and enjoyable.
- Stunning canyon views: The ride includes breathtaking vistas from Bryce’s north rim, along with views of Boat Mesa and Sinking Ship Peak.
- Educational and engaging guides: Guides are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and storytelling.
- Family-friendly: Kids as young as 5 can ride independently on tame horses, making it a great activity for families.
- Comfortable and well-trained horses: The horses are described as calm, friendly, and easy to ride.
- Good value for the price: At $90 per person, the tour offers a memorable experience with all necessary equipment included.
Contents
- Key Points
- An In-Depth Look at the Horseback Ride Experience
- What the Tour Offers and Its Itinerary
- Highlights Along the Trail
- The Horses and the Guides
- What to Bring and Practical Considerations
- What to Expect in Terms of Timing and Group Size
- Authentic Experiences and Authenticity
- The Overall Value
- Who Should Consider This Tour?
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
- More Horses in Bryce Canyon City
- More Tour Reviews in Bryce Canyon City
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Bryce Canyon City we have recnetly reviewed
An In-Depth Look at the Horseback Ride Experience
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Bryce Canyon City
What the Tour Offers and Its Itinerary
The ride begins at the Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn, conveniently located in Bryce Canyon City. Here, you’ll meet your guides and mount your horse, which comes with a saddle and saddlebags for your personal items. The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it perfect for those who want a satisfying taste of horseback riding without a full-day commitment.
From the start, the guides offer basic instruction, ensuring everyone feels comfortable, regardless of riding experience. This is especially reassuring for first-timers, who can enjoy the scenery without feeling overwhelmed. The ride then proceeds through the Dixie National Forest, away from busy tourist spots, allowing for a peaceful journey through tall pines and ancient bristlecone pines, some over 1,500 years old.
Highlights Along the Trail
One of the standout features of this ride is the opportunity to see rare views of Bryce Canyon from the north rim. Unlike the busy viewpoints along the main park road, this vantage point offers a quieter, more contemplative look at Bryce’s famous hoodoos and rock formations. Riders report that the views of Bryce Amphitheater are spectacular, especially as the trail approaches its highest points.
The ride passes notable formations like Boat Mesa and Sinking Ship Peak, iconic landmarks that add character and context to your experience. Several reviews highlight how these formations enhance the trip, with one rider noting, “The view up by the rim of Bryce Canyon is breathtaking…seeing it by horseback is the way to go.”
The Horses and the Guides
Guests consistently praise the well-trained horses. Commentators mention that the horses are “calm,” “friendly,” and “well-mannered,” making this ride accessible even to inexperienced riders or children. Some reviews mention riders as young as five riding independently, which speaks volumes about how tame and manageable these horses are.
The guides shine for their professionalism, friendliness, and storytelling. One reviewer said, “Bailey was a great guide — very chatty & informative,” while another appreciated how guides took their time to explain the area’s natural features and history. Several reviews praised the guides for making everyone feel at ease and for their attentiveness, which can turn a simple ride into a more enriching experience.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat to Bring and Practical Considerations
Because the ride is primarily on trail, it’s wise to dress for comfort and safety. Long pants and closed-toe shoes are strongly recommended, as is bringing water for hydration. The tour does not include water, so bring your own if you tend to get thirsty.
Since there’s a maximum weight limit of 220 lbs (about 100 kg), larger guests should confirm suitability beforehand. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or people with animal allergies.
What to Expect in Terms of Timing and Group Size
The tour generally operates in the morning and afternoon, giving flexibility based on your schedule. You’ll join a small group, which allows for more personalized attention from guides. The entire experience, including preparation, briefing, riding, and return, is approximately 1.5 hours — a perfect length for a quick but memorable outdoor activity.
Authentic Experiences and Authenticity
Many travelers have remarked on how the guides add value through storytelling and sharing local history. One guest noted, “The guides are very helpful and helpful. My wife and I learned some good history and enjoyed his personal input.” This personal touch makes the experience more than just a ride; it’s an opportunity to better understand the landscape you’re exploring.
The Overall Value
At $90 per person, this tour offers a great balance between price and experience. It includes a horse, saddle, guide, basic instruction, and saddlebags. You won’t need to worry about renting equipment or bringing your own horse gear — all is taken care of.
While some may expect more expansive views, the ride’s value lies in its combination of gentle adventure, expert guidance, and the chance to see Bryce Canyon from a less touristy angle. Many reviews mention how their guides made everyone feel comfortable and even took pictures, adding to the overall enjoyment.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This horseback ride is ideal for families with children, thanks to the tame horses and friendly guides. It’s also well-suited for beginners or those with limited riding experience, given the basic instruction and slow pace. Nature lovers who appreciate quiet forest rides combined with scenic canyon vistas will find this a rewarding activity.
If you’re interested in a more intimate, less crowded experience of Bryce Canyon, this tour offers a chance to enjoy the landscape from a different perspective. However, if you’re seeking extensive rim views or a rigorous ride, you might find this experience somewhat limited.
The Sum Up
This horseback ride through Dixie National Forest to Bryce Canyon’s north rim provides a relaxing, scenic, and educational outing that balances accessibility with authenticity. With friendly guides, well-trained horses, and stunning views, it’s a wonderful activity for those looking to appreciate Utah’s natural beauty without the hassle of strenuous hiking or crowded viewpoints.
It’s especially well-suited for families, beginners, and anyone eager to experience Bryce Canyon in a peaceful setting. While it may not offer the dramatic rim vistas for the entire ride, the few that are included are memorable and well worth the ride. For $90, you get not just a ride but a gentle, immersive encounter with Utah’s wilderness — one that leaves you with stories and photos to cherish.
Bryce Canyon: Horseback Ride in the Dixie National Forest
“beautiful views, great guide (Bowman). nice horses. very informational.”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for beginners? Yes, the tour is designed for all experience levels, with basic instruction provided so even first-time riders can enjoy it comfortably.
How long is the horseback ride? The ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including preparation and instruction.
What should I wear? Long pants and closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety and comfort. Bring water to stay hydrated.
Are children allowed? Yes, children as young as 5 can ride independently on tame horses, making it family-friendly.
Is there a weight limit? Yes, the maximum weight is 220 lbs (about 100 kg). Check with the provider if you have concerns.
Where do I meet the tour? You meet at the Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn, located at 26 South Main Street, Bryce Canyon City.
Is hotel pickup included? No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan to arrive at the meeting point.
What is included in the price? The price covers the horse and saddle, guide, basic instruction, and saddlebags for your personal items.
Can I cancel this tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Will I get good views of Bryce Canyon? You will see stunning views from the north rim during the ride, which many reviews describe as breathtaking, especially the views of Bryce Amphitheater.
In the end, this horseback ride offers a peaceful, scenic, and family-friendly way to experience Bryce Canyon from a different angle. It’s a nice complement to your sightseeing, giving you a taste of Utah’s wilderness and the chance to create lasting memories.
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