Bryce Canyon: Horseback Ride in the Dixie National Forest

Discover Bryce Canyon’s North Rim by Horseback for $90

A horseback ride through Dixie National Forest offers a unique way to see Bryce Canyon’s breathtaking landscapes. This tour, priced at $90 per person and lasting 1.5 hours, departs from Bryce Canyon City and takes you to the northern rim of Bryce Canyon. The journey combines gentle riding suitable for all skill levels with spectacular views of the canyon formations, making it perfect for families, beginners, and seasoned riders alike.

The tour is organized by Rubys Inn Adventures and includes horse and saddle, a guide, basic instruction, and saddlebags for personal items. It typically begins in the morning or afternoon, giving flexibility to fit into your travel plans. A key highlight is the chance to see rare views of Bryce’s famous amphitheater from a less crowded vantage point, along with encounters with 1,500-year-old bristlecone pine trees and the impressive formations at Boat Mesa and Sinking Ship Peak.

While the experience offers remarkable scenery and professional guidance, it’s important to note that water is not provided, and guests should bring their own. The tour is suitable for most, but not recommended for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or guests over 220 lbs. This horseback ride offers a peaceful, scenic adventure into one of Utah’s most iconic landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comfortable 1.5-hour horseback ride through Dixie National Forest to the Bryce Canyon north rim
• Affordable price of $90 includes horses, guide, instruction, and saddlebags
• Accessible for all skill levels, with basic instruction provided at the start
• Spectacular views of Bryce Amphitheater, Boat Mesa, and Sinking Ship Peak from the canyon’s northern edge
• Ideal for families and beginners; professional guides ensure a safe experience
• Bring water, long pants, and closed-toe shoes; no shorts or large bags allowed

Starting Point at Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn

The tour begins at the lobby of Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn, located at 26 South Main Street, Bryce Canyon City. Guests check in at the local partner’s desk, where they are introduced to their horses and given basic instructions before setting out. The meeting point is convenient for visitors staying nearby, and no transportation is included, so plan to arrive directly at the inn.

What You Can Expect During the 1.5-Hour Ride

This scenic horseback ride takes you through the Dixie National Forest, a forested area offering a peaceful contrast to the dramatic canyon views. You pass 1,500-year-old bristlecone pine trees, some of the oldest living organisms on Earth, adding an educational aspect to the experience. The trail is gentle, making it suitable for beginners, but riders should be prepared for a relaxing pace that allows plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.

The tour culminates at the north rim of Bryce Canyon, where you’ll witness panoramic views of the Bryce Amphitheater. The ridgeline offers vistas of notable formations such as Boat Mesa and Sinking Ship Peak, which are among the higher points in Fairyland amphitheater. Some reviews highlight that most of the trail is in a pine forest, with only the final section offering the spectacular canyon rim views, but these moments are well worth the ride.

The Route and Key Stops Along the Trail

The route begins in Bryce Canyon City, traveling through Dixie National Forest. Riders pass ancient bristlecone pines along the trail, giving a sense of history and continuity in nature. The trail leads to the north rim of Bryce Canyon, where the breathtaking panoramic vistas come into view. The final segment provides a glorious perspective of the Bryce Amphitheater, with some riders noting that stopping to enjoy the view and take photos would enhance the experience. However, most of the trail remains in a forested setting, limiting the scenic variety during the initial part of the ride.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Guides and Their Approach

The guides are praised for their professionalism, friendliness, and knowledge. They provide basic instruction at the start, helping riders of all experience levels feel comfortable. Several reviews mention guides like Bailey and Shannon, who are described as chatty, informative, and attentive. They also take photos upon request, adding a personal touch to the tour.

Guides are attentive to safety, checking on riders’ comfort, and explaining the area’s features and wildlife. Their expertise makes the ride accessible for families with young children, including a 5-year-old who rode independently on a tame horse, with no issues reported.

Horses and Equipment

The horses used in this tour are noted for being well-trained, calm, and friendly. The tour includes horses and saddles, with saddlebags for personal items. Riders should wear long pants and closed-toe shoes for safety and comfort, and water is recommended but not provided. The horses are described as quiet and well-mannered, creating a relaxing environment suitable even for those new to horseback riding.

Physical Requirements and Restrictions

Guests should be aware of the maximum weight limit of 220 lbs (99.7 kg), which is strictly enforced. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, or those with animal allergies. Participants are advised to bring water, long pants, and closed-toe shoes, and avoid shorts, large bags, or umbrellas. The ride is designed to be gentle, but riders should have a basic level of physical comfort in the saddle.

Timing, Pacing, and Accessibility

The 1.5-hour duration typically allows for a relaxed pace with opportunities to enjoy the scenery at a comfortable speed. Tours are usually available in the morning and afternoon, offering flexibility for daily schedules. While the trail itself is gentle, most of the experience is in the forest, with only the final segment providing a breathtaking view of Bryce Canyon’s rim.

Weather Considerations and Seasonal Notes

Several reviews mention the importance of good weather for the best experience. For example, some guests enjoyed ideal conditions, while others experienced unexpected snow that led to rescheduling. The guides are known for their responsiveness and hospitality if weather conditions change unexpectedly.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This horseback ride is distinguished by its combination of forest scenery and canyon views, offering a peaceful alternative to more crowded viewpoints. The expert guides ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for riders of all levels, and the affordable price makes it accessible to many visitors. The inclusion of ancient bristlecone pines and the chance to see Bryce Canyon from a less visited rim add unique touches to this tour.

Limitations to Consider

While the ride provides beautiful views from the canyon’s north rim, a few reviews note that most of the trail is in pine forest, with less emphasis on extensive canyon vistas. Riders who seek panoramic views throughout the entire ride might find this somewhat limited. Plus, water is not supplied, so packing some is advised. The maximum weight limit of 220 lbs may exclude some potential participants.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This horseback ride appeals most to families, beginners, and nature lovers who want a relaxed, scenic experience in Bryce Canyon. It’s ideal for those who prefer gentle rides with professional guidance and are comfortable being outdoors for a couple of hours. Photographers can enjoy capturing the views from the rim, and history enthusiasts will appreciate the ancient trees and natural formations.

The Sum Up: A Gentle Ride into Bryce Canyon’s Hidden Corners

For those seeking a calm, scenic, and friendly horseback adventure, this tour offers a beautiful way to experience Bryce Canyon’s natural splendor. The professional guides, well-trained horses, and spectacular views from the north rim make it a memorable addition to any Utah itinerary. While most of the trail is forested, the final moments at the rim reveal breathtaking vistas that reward riders with a remarkable perspective on Bryce Canyon’s iconic hoodoos.

Suitable for all experience levels, this tour emphasizes relaxation, safety, and stunning scenery. It’s especially appealing for families with young children or first-time riders looking for an introduction to horseback riding amid Utah’s spectacular landscapes. Be prepared with water and proper clothing, and enjoy this peaceful journey through one of America’s most beautiful national parks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this horseback ride suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes basic instruction and is designed to accommodate all skill levels, including complete beginners.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring water, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. No large bags, umbrellas, or shorts are permitted.

Can children participate?
Yes, children as young as five can ride independently on a tame horse, making it kid-friendly.

Are the horses well-trained?
Absolutely. The horses are described as calm, friendly, and well-trained, ensuring a relaxing ride.

How long is the ride?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, offering a leisurely pace with time to enjoy the scenery.

What if the weather is bad?
Guides are accommodating and can reschedule if needed. Some reviews mention snow or weather changes, but the staff are responsive and hospitable.

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