Capitol Reef Horseback Riding Private Trail Access

Red Bluff and Meeks Mesa on horseback through Capitol Reef's hidden western fold.

A 1-hour horseback ride through Capitol Reef National Park's Western Water Pocket Fold with private trail access, a certified guide in English, and a loop system that avoids retracing views. The ride passes Red Bluff and Meeks Mesa, crosses washes, and includes a riding helmet and bottled water. No prior riding experience is required. Children from age 8 are welcome.

The experience

You ride a loop trail system through a secluded section of Capitol Reef that most visitors never see. The route passes Red Bluff and Meeks Mesa, crosses several washes, and circles back without repeating the same views twice. A certified guide leads the ride and provides background on the area's human history and geology as you go. The horses are well cared for and trained for this work, so the ride itself is steady and manageable whether you've ridden before or not.

The whole experience runs about an hour, which is long enough to cover real ground and feel the rhythm of the trail without wearing you out. You get a certified riding helmet and bottled water. No experience is necessary to join. Children can ride from age 8 onward.

What’s included

• A certified riding helmet.
• bottled water.
• all fees and taxes.
• a certified guide in English providing background on the area's history and geology.

Before you book

Days and timesMonday to SaturdayDeparts at 12:30Last departure this season: 14 Nov

Book up to1h before

AgesAdult (18 and older) · Youth (8 to 17 years) · Under 8: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 12

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Wilderness Ridge Adventures

Is this one for you?Book this if you want to ride in a small group with a guide who knows the park's geology and history, and you're comfortable with an hour on horseback in an open landscape. The loop trail means you cover new ground the whole way, not doubling back on the same views.

Traveler reviews

5.00★★★★★★★★★★

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (8 to 17 years). Under 8: they can't be included in the booking.

What's the Red Bluff and why does the ride pass it?

Red Bluff is a landmark formation within Capitol Reef's Western Water Pocket Fold that the ride passes on its loop trail. The operator includes it as one of the named highlights of the route.

Do I need to have ridden a horse before?

No experience is necessary. The ride is designed for all fitness levels and first-time riders, with a certified guide leading the way.

What's included in the ride?

A certified riding helmet, bottled water, and all fees and taxes are included in the price.

Can my 8-year-old come along?

Yes, children are welcome from age 8 and up.

How long does the whole ride take?

The ride runs about an hour, covering the loop trail through the Western Water Pocket Fold and back.