Want to embark on a fun outdoor adventure in Sedona that will allow you to see the red rocks from a whole new point of view? If so, a guided horseback tour in Sedona is a fantastic way to enjoy stunning mountain views in Red Rock Country while channeling the region’s inner cowboy spirit.
Many of Sedona’s top horseback riding tours have multiple options for families, couples, adventurers, and even beginners without any riding experience, making horseback riding a truly unique, awe-inspiring, and accessible way to experience the beauty of Sedona. Here are our top tips (and tour recommendations!) for extraordinarily fun and one-of-a-kind trail experiences on horseback in Sedona.
What to Know Before Booking Sedona Horseback Rides
Before we share our top horseback riding tours in Sedona, here are a couple of things you need to know about horseback riding in Red Rock Country:
- Terrain — During a horseback ride in Sedona or the Verde Valley, you’ll encounter rugged red-rock trails, open desert plains, wildlife habitats, bubbling creeks, and even a river crossing from time to time. Some trails even offer views of iconic landmarks, such as Cathedral Rock.
- Time — The best time of day for horseback riding in Sedona is in the morning (for cooler temperatures) and in the evening (for dramatic sunset views). Afternoon rides are also an option during the winter or early spring months, when the weather is cooler.
- Season — The best times to visit Sedona for horseback riding are the spring and fall, when the weather is lovely and the landscapes are alive with vibrant spring flowers or colorful fall leaves.
- Restrictions — Most horseback riding tours have a minimum age requirement of 6–10 years old. Additionally, most tours have a weight limit of 250–260 pounds per person. Age and weight restrictions vary by tour company, so be sure to ask for all the details before booking a ride.
- Safety — Most horseback riding tours require all riders to wear helmets and restrict cell phone usage when on the trails to minimize distractions. Pregnant women are not permitted to ride.
Top Horseback Riding Tours in Sedona
Now that you have the scoop about horseback riding in Red Rock Country… are you ready to book a horseback riding tour in Sedona? We recommend the following Sedona horseback rides for professional trail guides, well-trained horses, and trails that wind through some of the most breathtaking views in Sedona to provide a fun outdoor adventure for the whole family.
1. Horsin’ Around Adventures
Horsin’ Around Adventures is a family-owned operation that offers horseback riding tours in the heart of the scenic countryside in Sedona. This company offers four ride options, ranging from a 1.5-hour ride through the canyons and wine country in Sedona with an experienced wrangler to private tours that include a cattle drive on horseback and a ranch cookout, priced from $139 to $459 per person.
Horsin’ Around Adventures is located off Dancing Apache Road, next to DA Ranch, one of the best wineries in Sedona. Reservations can be made by phone seven days a week, between 8 AM and 6 PM.
2. Trail Horse Adventures
Trail Horse Adventures, located in Dead Horse Ranch State Park, is one of the premier options for horseback riding in Sedona and Cottonwood.
This top-rated horseback riding company offers rides suitable for the whole family, including those with no prior riding experience. You can choose a one-hour trail ride for $119 per person to enjoy stunning mountain views, potential wildlife sightings, and even a river crossing. Alternatively, you can embark on a 1.5-hour trail ride for $139 per person that includes an additional stop at Tuzigoot National Monument.
3. Horseback Wine Country
How would you like riding alongside the stunning vineyards in Arizona’s Wine Country on horseback… and ending the ride with a wine tasting or a refreshing glass of wine? That’s exactly what you’ll find at Horseback Wine Country at Alcantara Vineyards!
Horseback Wine Country offers two tour options: a one-hour tour for $125 per person (first-timers are welcome!), or a 75-minute sunset tour for $145 per person. The sunset tour is a spectacular option for a date night — grab a glass of wine from Alcantara Vineyards, and end the evening with a sunset horseback ride through wine country with panoramic views of the Verde Valley. Sounds romantic, right?
Tips to Prepare for Your Guided Horseback Tour in Sedona
As you prepare for your horseback riding adventure in Sedona, here are a couple of important things to keep in mind:
- Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes, long pants (such as denim jeans or leggings), and sun protection (like sunglasses and sunscreen). If you’ll be riding in the early morning or during sunset, be sure to layer up with a light jacket to prepare for potentially chilly weather.
- Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated. If your horseback riding tour includes wine tasting before or after the ride, be sure to bring your driver’s license. Leave bulky items behind, since loose items, such as your cell phone, must be stored in your pocket or the horse’s small saddlebag.
- Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to check in, sign the necessary forms and waivers, and attend the safety briefing. Remember to use the restroom before departing, since most trails do not have stops along the way.
Experience the Ultimate Getaway in Sedona at The Sanctuary at Sacred Mesa with Arizona Sanctuary Experiences
Sedona horseback rides are a fantastic way to take in the region’s stunning scenery while riding alongside family and friends. Whether you choose a short trail ride through the red rocks and open desert plains, a thrilling cattle drive, or a charming horseback ride through the wine country in the Verde Valley, you’re bound to have a memorable time horseback riding in Sedona!
If you’re looking for somewhere spectacular to stay during your trip to Red Rock Country, look no further than The Sanctuary at Sacred Mesa. Our luxurious property offers panoramic red rock views and high-end amenities for an unforgettable stay in Sedona. Take a peek inside to discover the stunning mountain views that await you from your awe-inspiring “home away from home” in Sedona!
