Bryce Canyon: Horseback Ride in the Dixie National Forest

If you’re dreaming of a gentle horseback ride with stunning views of Bryce Canyon, this tour might be exactly what you need. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, reviews and descriptions reveal a well-organized experience that combines nature, history, and a touch of adventure—all at an accessible price.

What stands out? We love the opportunity to see Bryce from a different perspective, the knowledgeable guides who add local color to the ride, and the chance to enjoy a peaceful trek through Dixie National Forest. The only thing to consider is that most of the ride takes place in forested areas, so if your primary goal is panoramic canyon views, you might find the rim vistas only accessible at certain points.

This tour is suitable for a variety of travelers—beginners, families, or anyone wanting a relaxed, authentic outdoor activity. If you’re comfortable with horses and want a true taste of Utah’s wilderness, this experience is worth considering.

Good To Know

• Accessible for all skill levels: Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete beginner, this tour is designed to be gentle and manageable.
• Stunning views from the northern rim: Discover Bryce Canyon from a less crowded, more peaceful vantage point.
• Expert guides enhance the experience: Guides like Bailey and Shannon are praised for their friendliness, stories, and attentiveness.
• Includes historical and natural highlights: Pass by 1,500-year-old bristlecone pines and impressive formations like Boat Mesa and Sinking Ship Peak.
• Value at $90 for a 1.5-hour scenic ride, saddle and horse included, with basic instruction.
• Family-friendly: Kids as young as five can ride, making this ideal for families seeking a memorable outdoor adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at This Horseback Tour

What the Tour Entails

This roughly 1.5-hour ride begins in Bryce Canyon City, with set departure times typically in the morning or afternoon. You meet at the Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn lobby, where you’ll check in and receive a brief safety overview and basic riding instructions. Riders of all experience levels are welcome, making this a flexible choice whether you’re a first-timer or more familiar with horses.

Once suited up with the provided saddle, horses, and saddlebags for personal belongings, you’ll start your trek into Dixie National Forest. The ride follows well-maintained trails that wind through tall pine trees and lush forest, with a gentle pace that allows plenty of opportunity to soak in the environment.

The Scenic Highlights

The ride’s main highlight is reaching the northern rim of Bryce Canyon, which offers a different perspective than the more famous viewpoints on the south side. From here, you’ll get a quieter, more intimate view of the canyon’s natural beauty, with the chance to see formations like Boat Mesa and Sinking Ship Peak. Reviewers mention that the guide will often point out these features, along with sharing stories about the area’s natural history.

While most of the ride takes place in the forest, the trail eventually emerges at the rim, offering those breathtaking vistas Utah is known for. Some guests note that the views are most spectacular when the trail peaks near the rim, although most of the trail remains in shaded pine woods, which is perfect for those looking to avoid direct sun or extreme heat.

The Experience of the Guides

Guides like Bailey and Shannon receive high praise for their professionalism, friendliness, and storytelling skills. They’re attentive to rider comfort, especially for those new to horses, and often go above and beyond—taking photos at scenic spots and sharing local insights. Many reviewers mention how guides took the time to explain the horses’ personalities and helped riders feel at ease, which is crucial for a relaxed experience.

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The Horses and Equipment

The horses are described as well-trained, calm, and suited for all skill levels. Saddlebags are provided for personal items, and riders often comment on how comfortable and friendly the horses are. The equipment is also noted to be well-fitting, with staff helping ensure everyone is safe and secure before heading out.

What to Expect and Packing Tips

Since water isn’t included, bringing your own hydration is recommended—especially on warmer days. Long pants and closed-toe shoes are advised for comfort and safety, while shorts or large bags aren’t permitted. The experience is suitable for children as young as five, with some reviewers noting their own young kids riding confidently on tame horses.

Common Experiences and Highlights from Reviewers

• Many describe the ride as “relaxing” and “beautiful,” with a peaceful pace that’s easy to enjoy.
• Some mention encountering wildlife, like deer, thanks to the quiet trail.
• Guides are often praised for their helpfulness—taking photos, explaining the landscape, and ensuring everyone feels comfortable.
• The views from the rim are consistently called “breathtaking,” with some guests noting the opportunity to see Bryce Canyon’s famous hoodoos from a new angle.

Considerations for Your Trip

While the tour offers a lovely forest ride with occasional rim views, some guests mention that most of the trail is forested, with limited panoramic vistas along the route. If your priority is seeing the canyon’s famous hoodoos and expansive views, you’ll appreciate the short glimpses provided on this trip but might want to combine it with other viewpoints.

The max weight limit of 220 lbs (99.7 kg) is worth noting, as well as the fact that pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or animal allergies might not find this tour suitable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This horseback ride perfectly suits those looking for an easy, scenic outdoor activity amid Utah’s stunning landscapes. Families with young children, first-time riders, or anyone wanting a peaceful escape into nature will appreciate the gentle pace and expert guidance.

It’s also a good choice if you love animals—reviewers frequently mention the kind, well-trained horses—and if you want to avoid busy viewpoints for a quieter, more personal experience.

While it offers limited time at the canyon rim, it compensates with the tranquility of Dixie National Forest and the chance to learn about the area’s natural features from friendly guides.

Final Thoughts

This Bryce Canyon horseback tour provides a wonderful way to enjoy Utah’s rugged scenery without the steep price tag. The combination of forest serenity, expert guides, and select canyon views makes it a balanced experience—perfect for a half-day adventure.

For those seeking a relaxed, family-friendly outing that mixes natural beauty with a touch of cowboy charm, this tour hits the mark. The high praise from past riders about the guide’s friendliness and the horses’ calm demeanor underscores its quality and reliability.

However, if you’re after extensive canyon vistas or a more vigorous ride, you might consider other options. Still, for a peaceful, scenic ride through Dixie National Forest with occasional stunning views of Bryce, this experience offers excellent value and authentic charm.

FAQ

Is this horseback ride suitable for beginners? Yes, the tour is designed for all skill levels, with basic instruction provided and horses that are calm and well-trained.

How long is the ride? The ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours, providing enough time to enjoy the forest scenery and reach the rim without feeling rushed.

What should I bring? Bring water, long pants, and closed-toe shoes for comfort and safety. Water isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Are kids allowed to ride? Yes, children as young as five can participate, usually riding on their own on tame horses. Many reviews highlight how kid-friendly and safe the experience is.

What’s the meeting point? The tour begins at the Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn lobby, located at 26 South Main Street in Bryce Canyon City.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning.

To sum it up, Bryce Canyon’s horseback ride in Dixie National Forest offers a gentle, scenic excursion suitable for a variety of travelers. With friendly guides, well-trained horses, and a chance to see the canyon from a unique perspective, it’s a trip that blends natural beauty with authentic ranching charm—delivering a memorable taste of Utah’s wilderness without overcomplicating things.

You can check if your dates are available here: