Zion Horseback Riding Tours
Explore the East Side of Zion
Experience the beauty of Utah's Zion National Park like the pioneers did—on horseback! Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort offers unforgettable Zion horseback riding tours, led by expert wranglers from East Zion Adventures. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, our well-trained horses and knowledgeable guides ensure a safe, scenic, and memorable adventure.
A True Western Experience! Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort is nestled at nearly 6,500 feet above sea level, high on the east plateau overlooking Zion National Park. Surrounded by towering ponderosa pines, this land was once a pioneer logging camp, with many of its original trails still winding through the rugged Rocky Mountain high country. Today, these historic paths provide the perfect setting for breathtaking horseback rides, offering panoramic views, diverse terrain, and a true sense of the Old West.
Meet Your Horse and Wrangler
Our horses are hand-selected and trained to accommodate riders of all experience levels. Whether you’re an experienced equestrian or a first-time rider, our wranglers will match you with the perfect horse for your skill level. Be sure to let your guide know about your past riding experience so you can be paired with a horse that fits your comfort and ability. Our horses are:
✔ Strong and sturdy – Built for climbing Zion’s rugged trails.
✔ Obedient and well-trained – Ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride.
✔ Energetic yet gentle – This makes them ideal for all levels of riders.
Scenic Horseback Riding Tours Overlooking Zion
The Zion National Park Area has a rich history of horseback exploration. Native Americans first discovered the area but were cautious of entering the mystical canyons at night. Later, Mormon pioneers hired Native American guides to lead them through the region on horseback. Today, horseback riding remains one of the most scenic and authentic ways to experience Zion’s beauty.
Popular East Zion Horseback Riding Tours
- Daytime Horseback Rides – Journey through towering pines, open meadows, and rugged canyon trails with incredible views of East Zion’s dramatic landscapes.
- Sunset Horseback Rides – Witness the magic of East Zion’s golden hour as the sun dips below the cliffs, casting breathtaking colors across the sky.
Ready to ride? Choose your Zion horseback adventure below:
Checkerboard Horseback Ride
This ride offers excellent views of Zion National Park, Checkerboard Mesa, and the surrounding mountain ranges and canyons, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced riders.
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From $59
1 hour
Ages 8+
White Sands Sunset & S’mores Horseback Ride
S’mores + horseback riding is the ultimate way to cap off your day, combining a scenic trek to a hidden slot canyon with the simple joy of a crackling campfire and gooey s'mores.
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From $1051.5 hours Ages 8+
White Mountain Horseback Ride
You will be led by a local guide with years of horse riding experience that will also share the area's rich cowboy history. Halfway through the ride, you will walk through a slot canyon!
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From $641 hourAges 8+
Red Hollow Premier Trail Ride Experience
Enjoy breathtaking views of Red Hollow Canyon and White Sands. Explore the unique Red Hollow Slot Canyon on foot and a picnic lunch.
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From $1653 hoursAges 10+
Checkerboard Evening Shadow Ride
Saddle up on the back of one of our majestic horses and experience the Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort views on this incredible trail ride that will take you off into the evening shadows of Zion. Check off this bucket list item from your list with flair.
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From $1051.5 hoursAges 10+
Pine Knoll Horseback Ride
The ride begins by following a trail that winds up the side of Pine Knoll. As the ride exits the forest, you’ll get to see majestic views of Zion National Park.
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From $1052 hoursAges 10+
Trail Ride and Cowboy Cookout
The ride begins by following a trail that winds up the side of Pine Knoll. As the ride exits the forest, you’ll get to see majestic views of Zion National Park.
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From $1753 hoursAges 10+
Paria River Overnight Ride
Your camp will come furnished with tents for privacy, padded cots and the best cowboy amenities the industry has to offer.
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Call Us2 days, 1 nightAges 13+
Little Wrangler Ride
Too young for a full-length ride? No problem! Let your little ones, aged three to seven, experience the thrill of horseback riding on the same size horse!
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From $1510 minutesAges 3-7Complete Your Adventure with a Stay at Zion Ponderosa
Because our horseback riding tours depart right from the property, there is no better way to experience the high country than by basing your entire getaway at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort. With historic pioneer trails winding through our forested acreage, one ride simply isn't enough to take in all the panoramic views and dramatic terrain of Zion's east plateau. We encourage guests to book a multi-night stay, so they can comfortably fit multiple excursions into their itinerary—perhaps pairing a crisp daytime trek through the ponderosa pines with a breathtaking sunset ride. Check out our current lodging options and special multi-night packages to secure your spot in the saddle!