Sonoma: Horseback Riding Tour Over Lake Sonoma Views

Summary

Horseback ride through Sonoma hills with lake views and vineyard trails

You’ll ride sturdy horses along mountain trails above Lake Sonoma, catching glimpses of Dry Creek Valley’s vineyards and distant peaks. With a friendly local guide leading the way, you’ll pause for photos at scenic overlooks and feel that quiet only open hills can give you. It’s an easy escape — just fresh air, laughter, and those endless California views.

What’s the experience like?

“So, who’s actually ridden a horse before?” our guide asked, grinning at us as we circled up in the gravel lot above Lake Sonoma. I sort of half-raised my hand — it’d been years, and honestly, I was nervous. The horses looked calm though, tails flicking, and there was this early sun smell in the air — dusty leather mixed with something green and sweet from the vineyards below.

Once we got going, I realized how quiet it is up there. Just hooves crunching on rocky paths and sometimes a hawk calling out over the lake. Our guide (I think her name was Jamie?) pointed out Dry Creek Valley stretched out below — rows and rows of vines, all neat but somehow wild at the edges. She told us which wineries you could spot if you squinted; I tried but mostly just saw green waves. There was a breeze coming off Lake Sonoma that made my eyes water a little — or maybe that was just me being sentimental about finally doing something outside again.

We stopped at this ridge where you could see Mount St. Helena way off in the haze. Someone joked about how tiny our cars must look down by the water. Jamie took photos for us (she was good at making everyone laugh so nobody looked stiff), then we headed back past some wildflowers I couldn’t name. My thighs were sore by then but in a good way — like I’d actually earned my lunch later.

I didn’t expect to feel so… peaceful? It’s not just about riding a horse through wine country — it’s more like getting dropped into a postcard for 90 minutes and realizing you kind of belong there, even if your boots are borrowed. I still think about that view over Geyserville when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horseback tour around Lake Sonoma

• Ride over lake from mountain top
• Visit bar with beer and wine
• View Geyserville area
• See St. Helena mountain

Top questions

How long is the Sonoma horseback riding tour?

The horseback riding tour lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

No, hotel pickup is not included; guests meet at Lake Sonoma.

Are helmets provided on the horseback tour?

Yes, helmets are provided and required for all riders.

What should I wear for horseback riding in Sonoma?

You should wear closed-toed shoes (no sandals) and long pants are recommended.

Is there an age or weight limit for riders?

The minimum age is 12 years old; maximum weight is 225 lbs (102 kg).

Can pregnant travelers join this horseback tour?

No, pregnant travelers are not recommended to join due to safety reasons.

Are drinks or snacks included during the ride?

Bottled water is included; other drinks or snacks are not provided during the ride itself.

Will photos be taken during the ride?

Yes, your guide will take photos of your group during the ride.

What’s included

Your day includes parking at Lake Sonoma, bottled water to keep you refreshed on trail, use of a safety helmet throughout your ride, plus group photos taken by your guide so you can focus on enjoying those views without worrying about your phone slipping from your pocket.