Sedona Horseback Riding: River Crossings & Vineyard Trails

Summary

Horseback adventure by Alcantara Vineyards with river crossings and ancient ruins

You’ll ride gentle horses along vineyard trails near Sedona, cross rivers at the confluence of Verde River and Oak Creek, glimpse ancient Apache ruins up close, and soak in wide mountain views—all with a friendly local guide who makes even first-timers feel at home.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to cross a river on horseback? I hadn’t, honestly, until we pulled up at Alcantara Vineyards, just half an hour from Sedona. The morning was cool but the sun already felt strong. Our guide—her name was Jamie—greeted us with this easy smile and handed me a helmet (which I almost put on backwards). She matched each of us to a horse that somehow fit our personalities. Mine was called Pepper and had this way of flicking her ears back when I talked to her. I liked that.

We set off along the edge of the vineyard, where you could smell wet earth and something sweet—maybe wildflowers? The horses’ hooves made this steady clop-clop sound that sort of calmed my nerves. Jamie pointed out the spot where the Verde River meets Oak Creek, saying it’s sacred for local tribes. We actually crossed right there—the water wasn’t deep but it splashed up cold against my boots. My heart sped up for a second; I didn’t expect to feel so small in such a wide-open place.

The trail wound past some old Apache ruins—Jamie said they’re hundreds of years old but you can still see the outlines if you squint. She told us stories about the people who used to live here, how they’d watch the mountains for weather changes. I caught myself thinking about time and how quiet it felt out there except for birds calling somewhere high up. There was this one moment where everyone just stopped talking and let the view do its thing. I still think about that silence sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Guided horseback tour near Sedona

• Meet at Alcantara Vineyards
• Begin 1-hour guided horseback ride
• Cross river at Verde and Oak Creek
• View ancient Apache Indian ruins
• Ride alongside vineyard
• Enjoy panoramic mountain views
• Complete tour and return

Top questions

How far is Alcantara Vineyards from Sedona?

It’s about 30 minutes by car from Sedona to Alcantara Vineyards.

Do I need horseback riding experience?

No experience is needed; beginners and nervous riders are welcome.

What age is required for this horseback tour?

The minimum age is 10 years old for riders.

Is equipment provided for the tour?

Yes, your horse, tack, saddle, and helmet are included.

Will we see any historical sites on this ride?

Yes, you’ll get close to ancient Apache Indian ruins during the tour.

Are river crossings part of the route?

Yes, you’ll cross at the confluence of Verde River and Oak Creek.

Is lunch or wine tasting included?

No lunch or wine tasting is included; only riding gear is provided.

Can children ride on their own horse?

No; only ages 10+ can participate as riders on their own horse.

What’s included

Your ride includes a gentle horse matched to your comfort level, all tack and saddle gear, plus a safety helmet—so you just show up ready to ride alongside your local guide through vineyards, across rivers, and past ancient ruins near Sedona.