Vail Horseback Riding
Nothing evokes the West quite like a horseback ride through the Rocky Mountains. Celebrate Colorado’s western heritage from the cowboy’s point of view as you travel through the beautiful backcountry on horseback. You’ll enjoy gorgeous trails through pines and aspens, scenic views, wildflowers, and maybe even spot some wildlife as you immerse yourself in nature. For kids and beginners to adults and advanced riders, the two Vail horseback riding stables below can provide an experience you’ll always remember.
Our Favorite Stables for Vail Horseback Riding
Vail Stables
For over 17 years, Vail Stables has been providing horseback rides and more at their outpost just across the highway from Vail Village. Their one, one and a half, and two-hour rides are a mix of adventure, relaxation, and quiet for the ultimate horseback riding in Vail, Colorado. The horses are gentle, yet perky, and the guides are knowledgeable and engaged. If you’re looking for something more intimate or for more advanced riders, check out their private horseback rides.
Vail Stables also offers goat yoga (read about Leslie’s experience here) and pony time for the kids. When you’re ready to unwind, don’t miss the Happiest Happy Hour. Grab a glass of wine or cold beer, play lawn games or just relax in their hammocks with a stunning view of Vail Mountain. The goats come out to mingle too!
Bearcat Stables
Located down the valley in Edwards at the historic Bearden Homestead, Bearcat Stables offers rides that cater to those who would like to experience the beautiful Colorado Rocky Mountain scenery but have limited time or riding experience. The terrain is easily navigable and can be enjoyed by people of nearly all ages and skill levels.
They also offer one, one and a half, and two-hour rides. The terrain includes wide-open meadows full of wildflowers in summer, as well as groves of aspen trees. Sightings of wildlife, including red-tailed hawks and trophy-sized mule deer bucks, are frequent. Your guide will share with you the history of the homestead and the surrounding area, while a gentle, trusty horse navigates the mountain trails for you. If you are an advanced rider, ask about their three or four-hour backcountry/advanced rides.
Useful tips…
- What to wear: long pants and sturdy closed-toed shoes or boots. Helmets are provided, and Bearcat Stables has loaner cowboy hats.
- Make sure your pants aren’t too tight!
- Bring a camera, waterproof jacket, extra layers, sunglasses, water, and sunscreen.