At-A-Glance
Season:
Summer
Months:
May - Oct
Horseback Riding in Vail
From mountaintop yoga to fly fishing on the Gore, Vail, Colorado offers something for everyone. It’s an endless bucket list of outdoor activities in Vail, and horseback riding is the perfect outdoor adventure for you! So, giddy-up!! The West and the mountains are known for horseback riding and Vail’s the spot to saddle up!
No matter your horseback riding skills, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the Rocky Mountains and your beautiful horse in no time. Whether you want a short relaxing ride in the Colorado Rockies or a two-hour ride along the Colorado River, Vail has a ride for you.
Vail Stables and Ranches
Find the perfect horse and a top-notch trail ride at one of these nearby stables or ranches:
- Vail Stables offers guided trail-rides through awe-inspiring scenery right in Vail. See breathtaking views of Gore Range and Vail Mountain. Pony rides and a small petting farm are perfect for the younger kids! Our gentle horses, friendly, experienced guides and awe-inspiring trails await your arrival.
- Piney River Ranch also offers several riding options and pony rides for younger cowboys and cowgirls. Along the trail, you’ll enjoy views of the surrounding mountain peaks, the pristine Piney River, wildflower meadows, and fields of beautifully forested Aspen trees. You may also catch a glimpse of our wildlife, including moose, elk, and deer.
- 4 Eagle Ranch Stables provides horseback riding in a unique ranch setting with breathtaking views of the Sawatch Range, Castle Peak, and Red and White Mountain. Located just 23 miles from Vail.
- The Wranglers at Sage Outfitters pride themselves on offering a truly unique ride every time they head out of their Horse Pasture. They rarely stick to trails and avoid riding nose to tail like many other rides tend to be and the terrain is absolutely breath taking with massive views of Castle Peak Mountain and the Vail Valley.
- Lakota Guides offers group horseback rides through stunning meadows and rugged mountains. This is not your everyday head to tail trail ride. At times you may fan out and ride abreast with wranglers instructing you to control your horse rather than just sit on it. We pride ourselves in taking care of our horses because they take care of us & our guests!
- Bearcat Stables is a great option for those with less riding experience. There are enjoyable trail rides for all skill levels and ages. Their easy-to-navigate trails give you the opportunity to sit back, relax, and admire the stunning Colorado views.
Grab your cowboy and cowgirls boots and hats and hit the trails of Vail on a horse!
Not to worry. If riding a 1,200-pound animal is not your style, check out mountain biking in Vail, Colorado! In that case, grab your hiking boots and hit the trails in Vail on a fat tire bike!
After your ride, don’t forget to check out surrounding areas for more family fun activities like Vail’s Mountain Coaster at Adventure Ridge.
Discover More Epic Experiences
Pitkin Creek Trail
The first mile of the trail is strenuous as it climbs steeply out of the Vail Valley. Fallen trees along the trail are evidence of past avalanches. The grade levels out somewhat as the trail passes through mature aspen groves and spruce-fir forests and a series of moraines from an ancient glacial retreat. After about … Continued
Deluge Lake Trail
The Deluge Lake Trail splits from the Gore Creek Trail about 0.1 mile from the Gore Creek trailhead. Take this left onto the narrow trail which heads north before curving and heading northeast the rest of the way. The trail will pass through several boulder fields, and then cling to a very steep slope as … Continued
Bighorn Creek Trail
The first 1/2 mile of the trail climbs steeply out of the Vail Valley, then more gradually climbs up through stands of aspen and pine. The trail passes beaver ponds and the remains of old mining camps as well as Bighorn Falls. Near mile 2, the views of Vail and Bighorn drainage are exceptional. Around … Continued
Gore Valley Trail West (Lionshead Village to Dowd Junction)
Gore Valley Trail is a picturesque, mixed-use paved path stretching from Dowd Junction to East Vail, predominantly following the serene Gore Creek. This 12-mile trail includes dedicated pathways as well as segments that integrate with local streets, offering a smooth experience for both biking and hiking. Heading west from Vail Village, the trail transitions into … Continued
Gore Valley Trail (Vail Village towards East Vail)
Gore Valley Trail is a picturesque, mixed-use paved path stretching from Dowd Junction to East Vail, predominantly following the serene Gore Creek. This 12-mile trail includes dedicated pathways as well as segments that integrate with local streets, offering a smooth experience for both biking and hiking. Starting from the welcome center in Vail Village, the … Continued
Booth Lake Trail
There is no parking at the Booth Lake Trailhead or anywhere in the surrounding neighborhood. Violators will be towed. Private vehicle drop-off and pick-up at the trailhead are allowed on a limited basis. Learn More Trail Highlights: The trail climbs steeply from the trailhead through aspen groves for the first mile. Then, the trail climbs more … Continued
Buffehr Creek Trail
CLOSED April 15 to June 20 From the Buffehr Creek trailhead, cross the bridge and proceed about 1/4 mile before turning right at the first junction (the trail to the left takes you to Garmisch Drive). Continue north approximately another 1/2 mile, ascending a series of switchbacks, to the North Trail junction and stay right. … Continued
Grouse Lake
Grouse Lake trail begins on a logging road but turns to singletrack after 0.3 mile. At the signed junction with West Grouse Creek trail at 1 mile, keep left. The trail continues climbing through mixed forests and provides access to the Holy Cross Wilderness at Grouse Lake. If camping overnight, please visit the Ranger Station … Continued
Upper Piney River Trail
Upper Piney Trail, located near Vail, Colorado, is a 6-mile out-and-back route that offers a moderately challenging hike with diverse scenery. Starting at Piney Lake, one of Vail’s most picturesque spots, provides a gradual 3-mile ascent to a beautiful cascading waterfall, making it a perfect destination for an afternoon hike. The trail’s path weaves through … Continued
