Ten Mile Range
Breckenridge
On this ninety-minute ride with Breckenridge Stables, visitors will explore Peaks 9 and 10, the highest numbered mountains within the Ten Mile Range. Trip highlights include historic Breckenridge Ski Resort sites, creek crossings, and panoramic views of the Continental Divide. Trail tours continue through the end of September, with scenic sleigh rides available from November through April.
Halfmoon Packing & Outfitting
Leadville
Halfmoon is headquartered north of Leadville and sends guests out on hourly, half-day and full-day trail rides. Depending on the condition and time of year, riders might meander through parts of the White River, Pike or San Isabel national forests, including to the top of Tennessee Pass and around Turquoise Lake, all with views of Mount Massive and Mount Elbert along the way. Lunch is included on full-day rides, fishing can be added to any excursion, and wagon rides are an option for the littlest cowpokes.
Clark
Located in the heart of one of Colorado’s last bastions of real cowboying near Steamboat Springs, Del’s Triangle 3 takes riders through the pristine Mount Zirkel Wilderness Area and the Routt National Forest year-round. Options in summer range from an hour (ideal for young‘uns, who must be eight and up) to a full day, which includes a sack lunch; in winter, activities last about two hours. Del’s also offers hunting camps and pack trips for a more immersive adventure.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Estes Park
Several outfitters are available near Rocky Mountain National Park, and Jackson Stables ranks as one of the most popular. It offers a large variety of tours ranging up to five hours in length. Depending on the route you select, you may witness wildlife, wildflowers and some of the best waterfalls in Colorado. Three-hour tours may also involve some trotting, which is fun for those seeking more adventure. Meanwhile, those with children will enjoy Jackson Stables’ pony rides and hayrides. Tours are available daily through the end of October.
Browns Creek Falls
Salida
To reach Browns Creek Falls on horseback, book a tour with Mt. Princeton Hot Springs Stables. The three-quarter-day tour includes a short hiking break, while the full-day excursion takes riders further along to Browns Lake, found at the base of the scenic Sawatch Range. The three-quarter tours run through the end of the year, while full-day outings are only available through September 30. Book soon if interested, and after your ride, don’t miss soaking at Mt. Princeton Hot Springs, some of the best hot springs in Colorado!
Huge slabs of red sandstone at Garden of the Gods.
Unsplash/Rosie De La Cruz
Colorado Springs
From rock climbing routes to some of Colorado’s best hiking trails, Garden of the Gods offers an abundance of outdoor recreation. Horseback riding is no exception, thanks to Academy Riding Stables, located just outside of the park. Unlike most horseback riding tours on this list, these one- to two-hour excursions are available year-round. Trip highlights include views of dramatic red rock formations, along with natural and historic insights from your knowledgeable guide.
Great Sand Dunes National Park
Mosca
Hands down, Zapata Ranch offers some of the best horseback riding tours in Colorado. A three-night stay at this 100,000+-acre property includes meals, nature programs and outdoor activities, with horseback riding at its forefront. Ride through the neighboring Great Sand Dunes National Park, or alongside the working ranch’s herd of 2,000 bison. You can have these memorable experiences and more from March to October.
Chatfield State Park
Littleton
A hub for outdoor enthusiasts, Chatfield State Park is home to some of the best tubing, paddleboarding and horse riding near Denver. As long as weather allows, Chatfield Stables is another outfitter that operates year-round. Here, visitors of all skill levels can book a one- to two-hour tour, while experienced riders can take a five-hour ride to nearby Waterton Canyon. To further explore the State Park, book a waterfront campsite at one of the most scenic campgrounds under an hour from Denver.
Cascade Creek Falls
Durango
San Juan Sky Outfitters offers a two-hour overlook trail tour, taking riders into the beautiful San Juan Mountains and past a sixty-foot waterfall. It’s a great option, but if time permits, the train and trail ride tour is one worth booking. On this unique excursion, you’ll board the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, disembarking at Elk Park. Here in the Weminuche Wilderness, your guide will lead you to the iconic Molas Lake and along one of the most breathtaking sections of the Colorado Trail. Both experiences are available through October.
Maroon Bells
Aspen
For good reason, Maroon Bells is famed as the most photographed destination in Colorado. Those horseback riding in this region are guaranteed incredible views, accessible with Maroon Bells Guide and Outfitters. One-hour tours to multi-day pack trips are available through the end of September. Those seeking a unique experience should consider their overnight ride into Crested Butte. Or come next season, and book a five-day tour to Willow Lake to experience the Perseid Meteor Shower in one of the best places to stargaze in Colorado.
