Bryce Canyon: Horseback Ride in the Dixie National Forest

If you’re heading to Utah’s iconic Bryce Canyon, chances are you’ll want to see its majestic hoodoos and colorful amphitheaters. While most visitors explore by car or on foot, there’s a unique way to experience this landscape: horseback riding.

The Bryce Canyon Horseback Ride in the Dixie National Forest, offered by Rubys Inn Adventures, invites you to discover the area from a different perspective—on horseback, riding through forested trails to the north rim of Bryce Canyon.

What makes this experience appealing? First, we love how it combines scenic beauty with accessible riding, making it suitable for most skill levels. Second, the guides are consistently praised for their knowledgeability and friendliness, helping you feel comfortable whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete beginner.

That said, some travelers note that the ride primarily takes place in the forest with limited canyon rim views until the final stretch, so if your main goal is panoramic canyon vistas, this might not satisfy completely.

This tour is well-suited for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a peaceful outdoor adventure amid Utah’s stunning landscapes. It’s a relaxed, 1.5-hour journey that emphasizes natural beauty and local wildlife. If you’re looking for a memorable, authentic horseback experience that offers more than just a scenic drive, this ride could be a perfect addition to your Bryce Canyon itinerary.

This experience made our article of 12 Top Tours & Things To Do In Bryce Canyon City (With Reviews & Prices).

Key Points

• Suitable for all experience levels: from absolute beginners to seasoned riders.
• Includes a knowledgeable guide: often praised for their friendliness and storytelling.
• Offers unique forest and canyon views: with some of the highest points like Boat Mesa and Sinking Ship Peak.
• Emphasizes safety and comfort: with basic instruction, saddlebags, and well-trained horses.
• Great value at $90 per person: considering the personalized experience and stunning scenery.
• Limited rim views during most of the ride: with the best canyon vistas saved for the final moments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

The horseback ride begins at the Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn in Bryce Canyon City, a convenient starting point just a short drive from the park’s main attractions. You’ll meet your guide there, who will provide a brief safety orientation and basic riding instructions—perfect for newbies or those who haven’t been on a horse in a while.

The trail weaves through the Dixie National Forest, an area of towering pines and ancient bristlecone pines, some over 1,500 years old. The forest setting provides a refreshing contrast to the more commonly photographed canyon viewpoints and makes for a peaceful ride through nature. During the ride, you’ll pass notable landmarks like Boat Mesa and Sinking Ship Peak, which are prominent features in the Fairyland area of Bryce.

What you’ll see and hear: The guides are often praised for their storytelling, sharing insights about the local flora, fauna, and geology. Several reviews mention how friendly and professional the guides are, making even first-time riders feel at ease. One reviewer noted, “Bailey was a great guide—very chatty & informative,” highlighting the personal touch that sets this tour apart.

The Scenic Highlights

While most of the ride takes place in the shaded woods, the final part of the tour culminates at the north rim of Bryce Canyon, where you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Bryce Amphitheater. Here, the landscape opens up, revealing the famous hoodoos and the expansive canyon below. Many visitors describe the final vista as breathtaking, with one noting that “seeing it by horseback is the way to go.”

The trail’s design allows for a gentle, relaxed pace, making it accessible for children and those with limited riding experience. Kids as young as five can ride their own horses, with no issues reported—”zero issues,” according to one family review. The horses are well-trained, calm, and suited for riders of varying comfort levels.

Practical Details and What’s Included

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with options available in both the morning and afternoon. The price of $90 per person offers good value, considering that the experience includes the horse, saddle, guide, basic instruction, and saddlebags for your personal belongings. The tour does not include hotel transportation or water, so plan to bring your own supply.

Participants are advised to wear long pants and closed-toe shoes—details that can significantly enhance comfort and safety during the ride. The maximum weight limit is 220 lbs (about 100 kg), with no mention of height restrictions. The tour is conducted in English and is suitable for all experience levels, from those who have never ridden to seasoned equestrians.

Important safety notes: Pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues or allergies to animals, and those over the weight limit are not suitable candidates for this tour.

What the Ride Feels Like

The ride is described as relaxing and scenic, with many reviewers emphasizing its peaceful nature. You’ll enjoy the scent of pine, the sounds of birds, and the gentle rhythm of your horse’s walk. Some mention that the trail is primarily in the forest, with only the last stretch offering clear canyon views.

One reviewer said, “It was a very fun and the guide took his time to help and explain everything,” highlighting the personalized attention you’ll receive. Others appreciated the professionalism and friendliness of the guides, which helps even tentative riders feel confident.

The experience is not just about the scenery but also about appreciating the quiet, natural environment. Several reviews mention spotting deer and other wildlife along the trail, adding to the sense of being part of the landscape rather than just an observer.

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Authentic Experiences from Fellow Travelers

According to numerous reviews, guides often go above and beyond. One recounted how the guide took photos at the rim, another appreciated how the guides patiently helped with saddling and caring for the horses. The rides are praised for their smoothness and calmness, with horses like Blue and Newton being specifically mentioned as friendly and gentle.

A father shared that the ride was kid-friendly and enjoyable for his young children, who rode solo on the tame horses, making this experience accessible for families. Many reviewers mention the informative commentary and how guides shared stories about the local area, adding educational value to the scenic adventure.

Value and Overall Impression

At $90 for 1.5 hours, the tour offers a solid value, especially considering the included horse and the expertise of the guides. While the ride itself is gentle and not overly adventurous, the quality of the experience—friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and a peaceful atmosphere—makes it worth the price for many visitors.

Some reviews note that the trail could be more varied or provide more frequent rim views, but most agree that the final panorama makes the ride worthwhile. The quiet, forested sections are a bonus for those seeking serenity away from the crowds.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This horseback ride is ideal for families, first-time riders, and anyone interested in a slow-paced, scenic adventure. It’s perfect if your main goal is to experience Bryce’s natural beauty from a different vantage point without strenuous hiking or driving. It also suits travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and authentic outdoor experiences.

Not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues or allergies, or those over 220 lbs. If you’re looking for a high-adrenaline ride or close-up canyon rim views throughout, this may not meet your expectations.

The Sum Up

The Bryce Canyon horseback ride in Dixie National Forest offers a relaxed, scenic, and educational experience that complements your visit to Bryce Canyon National Park. The combination of gentle riding, friendly guides, and the chance to see ancient trees and distinctive rock formations makes it a memorable outing. It’s especially suited for families, beginners, or those seeking a peaceful escape into nature.

While the trail in the forest doesn’t always offer breathtaking canyon views, the final vista from the north rim is truly stunning. The value is solid, given the duration, the quality of the guides, and the unique perspective on the Utah landscape. If you’re craving a gentle, authentic outdoor adventure that highlights Utah’s natural beauty, this horseback ride is an experience worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners? Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for all skill levels, including those who have never ridden before. Basic instruction is provided, and the horses are well-trained.

How long does the ride last? The horseback ride is approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity without taking up the whole day.

What should I wear? Long pants and closed-toe shoes are recommended to ensure comfort and safety during the ride.

Are children allowed to participate? Yes, children as young as five can ride their own horses, and many reviews mention how kid-friendly the experience is.

What is included in the price? The tour fee covers the horse, saddle, guide, basic instruction, and saddlebags for personal items. It does not include water or transportation to the meeting point.

Is there a weight limit? Yes, the maximum weight per rider is 220 lbs (about 100 kg). Other restrictions such as height or special needs are not specified.

In essence, this horseback tour offers a wonderful way to enjoy Utah’s scenic wilderness, especially if you value calm, guided experiences that emphasize natural beauty and friendly service. It’s a practical and authentic addition to any Bryce Canyon adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby