HORSEBACK RIDING

All of our ride options insure that you will experience the true splendor of the Rocky Mountains. Our string of trail horses know what they're doing in these hills and our trails are some of the best around.

Mount up and ride out with us into the forest and through the aspens and pines on your way up to ridge tops at 9000-foot elevations. The views of the Routt National Forest, the Mount Zirkel Wilderness, and the Elk River below are awesome and inspiring. Our professional wranglers will guide you along and help you spot the wildlife that calls these mountains home. Commonly seen are elk, deer, fox, coyote and eagles. On rare occasions you may get to see bear, mountain lion and moose.

If you really want to experience the beauty of the Rockies, there's no better way than on horseback at the Elk River Guest Ranch. We offer a variety of choices and can accomodate all skill levels. Horseback riding is offered from June through October, as long as Mother Nature cooperates. Riders must be at least 8 years old to go on a trail ride. No double riders allowed.

Recommended attire
Long pants, long sleeve shirt and cowboy boots.

Ride days
Tuesday thru Sunday

Ride options and rates

One hour ride - $45
10:30-11:30 and 2:30-3:30 - Ride through meadows, aspen groves and get great views of the Elk River and Continental Divide. This is an ideal ride for children and those who don't have enough time to enjoy a longer ride.

Two hour ride - $65
10:00-12:00 and 2:00-4:00 - This is an amazing trip up the mountain and deep into the Rockies. Passing through aspen, lodepole pine and various wildflowers, you'll experience beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, valleys and the Elk River below. Topping out at 9000 ft, the ride will arrive at the lookout point. The vistas here are incredible! Miles and miles of mountain peaks surround you as far as the eye can see. It's truely awesome! Take a break and get some memorable photos before you head back to the ranch.

Longer rides - by appointment only.

Other ride options

Overlook Trail: 3 hours with lunch included	$150
Pearl Lake: 4 to 6 hours with lunch included	$180
Private 2 hour ride	$125
1/2 hour pony ride	$25

Private riding lessons
$65.00 per hour, by appointment only.

Daily Double
Start out with a two-hour horseback ride, break for lunch at Papa Ed's Saloon, complete the adventure with a fast paced run down the Elk River. Call Bucking Rainbow for more details and availability on the Daily Double. 1 970 879-8747.

Wagon Dinner Rides
Friday and Saturday Nights. Enjoy a wagon ride in the midst of a mountain paradise destined for a magical place to relax and eat by the campfire. Start off the evening with appetizers in Poppa Ed's Saloon followed by a fun wagon ride down seed house road along the Elk River then back through the ranch to a roaring fire and enjoy a delicious dinner. A 15% gratuity will be charged for all parties.