Horseback riding near Bryce Canyon: Thunder Mountain Trail

Switchbacks and narrow ridges separate this ride from gentler trails in the area.

A 4-hour guided horseback ride on the Thunder Mountain Trail near Bryce Canyon, starting at the bottom of Red Canyon and climbing to the top through switchbacks and narrow backbones. The trail is not recommended for first-time riders and requires at least moderate fitness. Children must be at least 10 years old and riders cannot exceed 220 lbs. Departures run daily at 8:30 a.m. from May through September.

The experience

The Thunder Mountain Trail climbs from the bottom of Red Canyon to the top, winding through switchbacks and narrow ridges that demand focus and balance. This is not a beginner ride: the operator recommends it only for experienced riders with at least moderate fitness. The 4-hour journey covers terrain that old west outlaws once traveled, and you'll pass remnants of ancient Native American sites along the way. The scenery frames every turn: southern Utah's landscape unfolds as your backdrop as you climb.

Rides depart daily at 8:30 a.m. from May 1 through September 30. A live guide leads the ride and handles the route. Your job is to manage the horse and take in the trail. The weight limit is 220 lbs, and children must be at least 10 years old to participate. Because of the terrain and the physical demands, the operator does not recommend this ride for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or pregnancy.

What’s included

• Guided horseback ride with a live English-speaking guide.
• access to the Thunder Mountain Trail through Red Canyon switchbacks and ridgelines.
• views of old west outlaw routes and ancient Native American remnants.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 25 May 2027

Book up to2h before

AgesAdult (10 and older) · Under 10: can't be booked

GroupUp to 10

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.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Ruby's Inn Adventures Utah

Is this one for you?Book this ride if you have horseback experience and want terrain that demands your full attention. The switchbacks and narrow ridges mean you'll be actively managing your horse for the full 4 hours, not taking a leisurely trail walk.

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What makes the Thunder Mountain Trail different from other horseback rides near Bryce Canyon?

The Thunder Mountain Trail features switchbacks and narrow ridges that climb from the bottom of Red Canyon to the top, offering more technical terrain than gentler routes in the area. The operator specifically notes it is not recommended for first-time riders.

Do I need horseback riding experience to book this ride?

Yes. The Thunder Mountain Trail is not recommended for first-time riders and requires at least moderate physical fitness. You should have some riding experience before booking.

What time does the ride start and when does it run?

The Thunder Mountain Trail departs daily at 8:30 a.m. from May 1 through September 30. This is a seasonal ride and does not operate outside those months.

Are there age or weight restrictions?

Children must be at least 10 years old to ride the Thunder Mountain Trail. The weight limit is 220 lbs per rider.

What will I see on the ride?

The trail passes through terrain once used by old west outlaws and includes remnants of ancient Native American sites. The ride climbs through Red Canyon with switchbacks and narrow ridges, offering views of southern Utah's landscape throughout the 4-hour journey.