Yes. While our horseback riding experiences are designed primarily for guests staying at The Lodge at Thanksgiving Ranch, we occasionally have limited availability for non-guests.

If you are interested in visiting the ranch for a trail ride but are not a registered lodge guest, please contact us using the form below or give us a call. When space allows, we are happy to welcome members of the public to experience the ranch.

Please note that Lodge guests always receive priority booking, so non-guest rides are typically offered on a limited or last-minute basis.

To secure your reservation, full payment is required at the time of booking for non-guest rides. Once your request is received, a member of our team will contact you within 24 hours to confirm the ride details.

If your requested date and time are not available, your payment will be fully refunded.

• Shoes or boots with at least a one-inch heel are required. We do have a number of boots available to borrow. Riding boots are best, but dress boots or even rubber boots will work as long as they have a one-inch heel

• Jeans or long pants are a must. Tights or jogging pants are generally too slippery.

• A long sleeve shirt is preferable for protection when riding through trees.

• Wear or bring layers. The weather can change quickly, and the horses won’t mind a little extra weight. A waterproof jacket is better to have than to leave behind.

• Helmets are offered to all guests. This is a good idea, especially for junior riders. If a proper riding helmet is not available, a well-fitting bicycle or hockey helmet is adequate.

• A cowboy hat is always acceptable; we love to see our riders share the Western spirit. However, it must be well-fitting or secured with a rodeo string (a string under the chin) to avoid blowing off and spooking a horse.

• More information about what to pack for your stay can be found here

The minimum age for horseback riding at Thanksgiving Ranch is 8 years old.

Horseback riding is not without risk! While we do our best to provide safe and well-trained horses, and guides trained in first-aid, horses and nature are not entirely predictable. Rides are walking-only.  First-time riders are expected to consider and respect the horses, our guides, and other guests. If a guest has more rides booked during their stay, an assessment of their skills, comfort and respect will be made.  This option is suitable for anyone who just wants a gentle experience on horseback.

If you want to participate in this riding experience and activity, you have been made aware of these inherent risks and have accepted all of these risks.

You should be aware that ALL riders must sign a liability waiver before riding to indemnify Thanksgiving Ranch (and all associated parties and owners) and employees from legal actions.

Mountain weather can shift quickly, especially in winter. If conditions require us to delay, reschedule, or cancel your ride, our team will gladly work with you to find another suitable time. If rescheduling is not possible, your deposit will be fully refunded.

Yes. For the wellbeing of our horses, guests, and staff, Thanksgiving Ranch reserves the right to cancel or modify a riding experience if safety concerns arise. This may include considerations such as rider size, rider attitude, or other factors that could impact the comfort and safety of our equine team or fellow guests. To ensure the best experience for everyone, we ask that you provide the height, weight, and riding experience level for each rider in your group at the time of booking.

Yes. Our trail rides are walking-only experiences, designed for guests who wish to enjoy a calm and scenic introduction to horseback riding. While our horses are carefully trained and our guides are experienced and certified in first aid, horses and nature are living, dynamic elements. Guests are asked to approach the experience with attentiveness, respect for the horses, and consideration for fellow riders.

Yes. All riders must sign a liability waiver prior to riding. This waiver acknowledges the inherent risks involved in horseback riding and indemnifies Thanksgiving Ranch, its owners, staff, and associated parties.

All trail rides are led by experienced ranch guides who are knowledgeable about the horses, the land, and guest safety.

For safety reasons, only one rider per horse is permitted, with no exceptions.

Horseback riding is a physical activity and may not be suitable for individuals who:

• Have knee, back, or hip issues

• Have balance concerns

• Have had recent surgery

• Are pregnant

If you have health concerns, please consult with us before booking.

Yes. Guests are welcome to bring cameras on the trail ride. We recommend securing them with a wrist or neck strap. Our guides will pause during the ride for photo opportunities.

For safety reasons, items such as backpacks, purses, water bottles, and selfie sticks are not permitted on or near the horses.

Yes, but cell phones must be kept on silent as a safety precaution.