Vista Verde Ranch - Horseback Riding and Sleigh Rides
There is an endless variety of trails and adventures at Vista Verde. Ride on horseback through the untamed wilderness wonderland. We have exciting horse programs for both summer and winter.
Sleigh Rides
It just wouldn't be right to spend time in a winter wonderland without singing a line or tow of “Jingle Bells.” And you can do just that when you head out on our “one horse open sleigh” on a tour of the ranch. Or, if you would like, hop on our big sleigh pulled by our Percherons Zig and Zag and help the wranglers feed our resident herd of 75 horses each day. Either way, it’s a wonderful winter experience while the horses do all the work.
Horseback Riding - Winter
Sitting astride one of our horses resplendent in their warm, thick winter coat is also an experience not to be missed. It’s a lot different than riding on summertime trails, but just as much fun! We keep a few trails packed down during the winter. The rides are just long enough that your toes and fingers won’t get cold before you get back to the barn. Keep in mind that because riding on snow is not like riding on dirt, the rides are usually limited to walk only. But there is nothing quite like the hush of snow that muffles the hoof beats as you explore the ranch trails on horseback.
Horseback Riding - Summer
The Vista Verde Riding Program offers fun-filled, informative activities with a touch of adventure that accommodates all riding levels. With a remuda of over 80 horses, we match each guest’s personality with the perfect "horse-anality" to get you off on the right hoof, ‘er foot. Our riding program is about much more than beautiful trail rides. Even those who have ridden all their lives have been known to learn or experience something new while at VVR.
Most days we have rides going out in the morning and afternoon, but we also go on an early morning breakfast ride and an evening dinner ride once a week. For those who really want to put some solid time in the saddle we offer an all day ride with a picnic lunch at destinations like Pearl Lake or the South Fork of the Elk River. Rides are limited to 2-6 rides so each adventure can be tailored to your riding ability. We encourage family rides, but keep in mind the rides will be geared towards the most inexperienced rider. So if you want to go on a more challenging ride, we will pair you with other riders with the same interest and riding level.
Everyday at the ranch offers a different and interesting clinic that can be great learning experiences for novices and experts alike. We’ve developed a variety of different clinics to explore the different aspects of horsemanship, and all suitable to all riding levels. Clinics include Balance and Rhythm, Driving, Round Pen Reasoning, and Colt Starting. We also have a fun cattle round-up activity.
