Ruby’s Horseback Adventures Utah Thunder Mt. 4 Hour Ride

Get set for a horseback adventure that takes you far from the busy tourist spots of Bryce Canyon National Park. Ruby’s Horseback Adventures offers a 4-hour guided ride for an immersive experience on the Thunder Mountain Trail, with a backdrop of breathtaking canyon views. This tour is priced at $150 per person, with bookings averaging 61 days in advance. Suitable for guests over 7 years old and all skill levels except complete beginners, the ride promises a true off-the-beaten-path exploration of Old West and Indigenous trails. The journey begins at Red Canyon, starting promptly at 8:30 a.m., and is perfect for those craving a scenic, moderate physical activity amidst nature’s grandeur.

While the tour is seasonal, running from May 1 through September 30, it offers an authentic canyon experience that combines stunning scenery, expert guides, and well-trained horses. Travelers should note the 220 lb weight limit and that it is not recommended for first-time riders. The experience includes plenty of spectacular views, and the small group size of up to 10 riders ensures personalized attention and safety.

Key Points

• Four-hour horseback ride through Bryce Canyon’s Red Canyon, starting at 8:30 a.m.
• Seasonal tour running from May to September, with bookings averaging 61 days in advance
• Suitable for ages 10 and above, with all skill levels except complete beginners
• Price: $150 per person, with a 220 lb weight limit
• Guides prioritize safety and comfort, with knowledgeable staff and well-trained horses
• Spectacular views of Bryce Canyon and Red Canyon, away from crowds and tourist spots

Starting at Red Canyon: Departure and Meeting Details

This tour departs from Bryce Canyon City, Utah, beginning each day at 8:30 a.m. The meeting point is in Bryce Canyon City, where guests are welcomed and introduced to their guides. The ride ends back at the same starting location, making logistics straightforward. The small group size—maximum of 10 participants—means more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

The tour’s punctual start ensures you make the most of daylight hours, especially during the busy summer months. Participants should have moderate physical fitness, as the ride involves climbing and descending along narrow, steep sections of the trail. Since the tour is seasonal, check weather conditions and bookings well in advance.

Exploring Red Canyon and Thunder Mountain Trail

The Thunder Mountain Trail begins at the bottom of Red Canyon and ascends to its top, offering some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Bryce Canyon area. The trail features switchbacks and narrow backbones, providing a sense of adventure and a chance to see the landscape from a new perspective. Riders experience a variety of terrains, including steep sections that can be both exhilarating and slightly challenging.

The ride showcases scenic vistas of Bryce Canyon, with the backdrop of towering red rock formations. The trail’s design ensures that even those with some riding experience can enjoy the journey, while more seasoned riders will appreciate the narrow, steep sections that add excitement. The entire route is about four hours long, balancing adventure with ample time to take in the views.

The Guide and Horses: Safety and Comfort

The guides at Ruby’s Inn Adventures are known for their knowledgeable, friendly approach. One review highlights a guide named Kevin, who took extra care to take photos and ensure everyone felt safe, even at the most narrow and steep parts of the trail. Guides are attentive to each rider’s comfort and safety, making adjustments if necessary.

The horses are described as well-maintained and friendly, trained to handle the trail’s switchbacks and heights. Their calm demeanor and reliable training foster confidence, even for less experienced riders. The guides also share stories and insights about the area, enriching the ride with local knowledge.

The Scenic Views: Beyond the Crowds

One of the biggest draws of this tour is escaping the crowds of Bryce Canyon’s most popular viewpoints. Instead, you’ll find yourself amid more private and breathtaking scenery along Red Canyon’s trails, with views that are hard to describe—vast, colorful, and awe-inspiring.

Guests frequently remark on the spectacular vistas and the large, expansive landscapes visible from Thunder Mountain. The scenery is described as fabulous, with some parts being both scary narrow and steep, providing an element of thrill alongside the natural beauty. These views are accessible away from the tourist crowds, offering a more tranquil and authentic canyon experience.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

The tour generally requires moderate physical fitness due to the trail’s elevation changes and narrow paths. It is not recommended for first-time riders, but those with some riding experience, or those comfortable with heights and moderate activity, will find it enjoyable. The 220 lb (100 kg) weight limit applies, ensuring the safety and well-being of both horses and riders.

Participants should be prepared for up to four hours of riding, so comfortable clothing, sturdy footwear, and sun protection are advisable. The tour is suitable for guests over 10 years old, making it a great family activity for older children and teenagers.

Booking, Cancellation, and Weather Considerations

Reservations are usually made about 2 months in advance, reflecting the tour’s popularity. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing flexibility in case of weather or schedule changes.

Since the ride is seasonal, running May through September, it is dependent on good weather conditions. In case of cancellations due to weather, guests are offered an alternative date or a full refund. This ensures safety and comfort during the outdoor adventure.

Comparing the Thunder Mountain Ride with Other Bryce Canyon Tours

Unlike day tours that stay within the main park, this horseback ride ventures into less-traveled trails around Red Canyon, giving a more authentic and peaceful experience. The small group size and expert guides distinguish this ride from larger, more crowded tours.

While the price is $150 per person, this includes personalized attention, scenic views, and a memorable adventure. It is a premium experience that combines nature, history, and outdoor activity in one package. For those seeking a moderate physical challenge and a unique perspective on Bryce Canyon’s landscape, this ride offers excellent value.

Best suited for adventurous families and experienced riders

This tour is best for travelers over 10 years old who enjoy moderate physical activity and outdoor adventures. The well-trained horses and attentive guides make it accessible to most with some riding experience, though not for complete beginners. Those looking for a scenic escape from crowded viewpoints and an authentic cowboy trail experience will find this tour highly rewarding.

The Sum Up: A Scenic, Off-the-Beaten-Path Horseback Ride

The Ruby’s Horseback Adventures Utah Thunder Mountain 4-Hour Ride offers an immersive journey into Bryce Canyon’s Red Canyon, away from the crowds and tourist hotspots. The breathtaking views, friendly guides, and well-trained horses make this a standout option for visitors seeking a moderate adventure with authentic Western scenery.

While the ride requires moderate fitness and is seasonal, it rewards guests with spectacular vistas and a sense of exploration that few other Bryce Canyon tours provide. Perfect for those with some riding experience or adventurous families, this tour truly captures the rugged beauty of Utah’s canyon country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, it is not recommended for first-time riders. It’s best suited for those with some riding experience and comfort with heights and uneven terrain.

What is the price of this horseback tour?
The cost is $150 per person, including guidance and well-trained horses.

How long does the ride last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, starting at 8:30 a.m. each day during the season from May to September.

What are the age restrictions?
Guests must be at least 10 years old to participate.

What is the weight limit?
The maximum weight limit is 220 lbs (100 kg).

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts and ends at Bryce Canyon City, Utah, with all activities occurring along Red Canyon trails.

What should I bring or wear?
Comfortable clothing, sturdy footwear, and sun protection are recommended. No specific gear is mentioned, but prepare for outdoor conditions.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the ride runs seasonally and is dependent on good weather. Cancellations due to weather are fully refundable or can be rescheduled.

What makes this tour stand out from others?
Its off-the-beaten-path location, spectacular views, small group size, and friendly, knowledgeable guides make it a memorable canyon adventure.