horseback riding

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, you’ll feel right at home on our horses, enjoying the scenery as you ride through some of the most beautiful country in Colorado.

With 85 horses to choose from, we’ll match you according to ability, size and – equally as important – personality. Rides at Colorado Trails Ranch are divided by your ability and desire; and no more than six guests per ride ensure more customized lessons with our wranglers. Rides range anywhere from scenic walks alongside mountain creeks to loping through Ponderosa Pines and wide open meadows.

Offered rides:

• Morning and afternoon rides (1 ½ to 2 ½ hours)
• Half day rides (3 to 4 hours, with a Chuck wagon lunch)
• All day lunch ride (6 to 8 hours, pack a lunch and eat on the trail)
• Sunrise ride
• Cattle drive for advanced riders ($35 per guest)
• Family breakfast ride
• “Corral Capers” – Arena games on horseback

If you’ve never ridden before or have limited experience, you’re not alone… about 80% of our guests have been on a horse less than three times! We’ll show you the basics of riding to keep you safe and get you comfortable. And you’ll continue to build confidence and expertise with our extensive, progressive instruction program throughout the week.

If you’re an experienced rider, you’ll appreciate the quality of our horses and will be delighted by our selection of challenging trails. This is your opportunity to do exactly what you love – ride horses... and what better setting than the gorgeous mountains of Colorado, outside of Durango.

Children will typically ride with their age group, and parents are always welcome to ride along with them.

At our guest ranch, we also offer Horseman’s Week in September for all levels of horsemanship and more advanced instruction.

Please note: There’s a maximum weight restriction of 240 pounds for riding. Please contact us with any questions.