If you’re dreaming of taking in the beauty of Colorado’s mountains from atop a gentle horse, the 2 Hour Horseback Ride offered by the Glenwood Adventure Company might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally saddled up for this exact tour, based on reviews and details, it seems like a solid choice for anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic escape into the Western Colorado Rockies.
What really catches our eye about this experience is how accessible it is—no prior riding experience needed—and the fact that it offers stunning views of Glenwood Canyon, the Colorado River, and surrounding forests. Plus, it’s suitable for children as young as 7, making it a family-friendly option. The second thing we like is how the guides are praised for being friendly and helpful, which makes the whole trip feel more personal and comfortable.
One thing to consider is the cost of $155 per person, which isn’t cheap, but when you factor in the scenery, the expert guidance, and the time spent in nature, it seems like good value. Still, the ride is about two hours long, so it’s a decent chunk of your day, especially if you’re traveling with kids or prefer shorter outings.
This tour seems best suited for travelers who enjoy gentle outdoor activities, want memorable mountain vistas, and appreciate having knowledgeable guides. If you’re after a casual yet immersive riding experience in Colorado’s beautiful landscape, this might be just the ticket.
Key Points:
- Perfect for beginners and children over 7, with no prior riding needed.
- Stunning panoramic views of Glenwood Canyon, the Colorado River, and forests.
- Guides are praised for being friendly and helpful, adding a personal touch.
- Two hours is a good length for a relaxed, scenic ride without feeling rushed.
- Price reflects the scenic value and guided experience but isn’t the cheapest option around.
- Weather can affect the experience; cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t suitable.
An Honest Look at the 2 Hour Horseback Ride in Glenwood Springs
If you’re up for a laid-back adventure that combines Colorado’s natural beauty with the gentle rhythm of a horseback ride, this tour hits many marks. We loved the way the itinerary is designed to show off some of the most breathtaking sights — from the ascent into the mesa meadow to the overlook points of Glenwood Canyon and the Colorado River. The entire trail offers a mix of open meadows, dense forests, and mountain panoramas, making it a feast for the eyes.
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The Starting Point and Meeting Logistics
You’ll gather at the Bair Ranch Rest Area in Gypsum, Colorado, which is a straightforward meeting spot. The convenience of a mobile ticket means no fuss with printed documents, and the total group size is limited to 16 travelers, keeping things intimate and manageable. The activity is booked on average 28 days in advance, which suggests it’s popular, especially in the busy seasons.
The Ride Itself: What to Expect
The journey begins with an ascent from the stables, where you’ll hop onto your horse and start climbing in elevation. The ride crosses a natural mesa meadow, giving everyone a chance to enjoy expansive views and maybe spot some local wildlife — the reviews mention wildlife watching as a highlight. Then, as you leave the meadow, the trail continues to wind upward, offering sweeping vistas of aspen groves, cedar forests, and the rugged mountain ranges surrounding Glenwood Springs.
The guides are noted for their friendly demeanor and helpfulness, which is especially reassuring if you’re new to horseback riding. One reviewer shared that “guides were awesome,” and another mentioned the guides “gave us time to stop and take pictures,” highlighting how the experience is paced for enjoyment, not rushing through.
The Scenery and Photo Opportunities
This is where the tour shines. The views of Glenwood Canyon’s walls and the Colorado River weaving through it are jaw-dropping, and the ride allows plenty of opportunities to pause, take photos, or simply soak in the scenery. The reviews reinforce this, with travelers describing the ride as “very pretty” and “ride with a view.” It’s not just about riding; it’s about experiencing a landscape that’s best appreciated at a slow pace.
The Horses and the Guides
The horses are described as “great,” and the whole experience feels very accessible, whether you’re an experienced rider or a first-timer. Since most travelers can participate, it’s clear the ride is designed to be manageable and safe. The guides’ reputation for friendliness and helpfulness adds to the overall comfort of the tour — important if you’re traveling with children or are wary of riding for the first time.
Practical Details That Matter
- Duration: 2 hours, which is enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling exhausted.
- Price: $155 per person, a fair price considering the guided experience, scenic stops, and the quality of the ride.
- Weather considerations: Since the experience depends on good weather, cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t suitable. You’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund if that happens.
- Children: The minimum age is 7, and children must be at least 42 inches tall, making it family-friendly for younger travelers comfortable with riding.
The Value of This Experience
While the price might seem steep, it covers not just the ride but also the opportunity to explore some of Colorado’s most breathtaking landscapes from a unique vantage point. The guides, who are celebrated for their friendliness and knowledge, help make it more than just a ride — it’s an educational and memorable outing.
For those who want a relaxing, scenic adventure with minimal fuss and maximum natural beauty, this tour offers a straightforward way to experience the Rockies. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just seeking a peaceful escape into nature, it’s a solid choice.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This ride is ideal for travelers who value gentle outdoor activities and scenic views over adrenaline or technical riding. It’s perfect for beginners, families with kids over 7, or anyone looking to enjoy Colorado’s mountain landscape without a strenuous hike or demanding physical activity. If you’re hoping for expert guides, beautiful vistas, and a laid-back pace, you’ll find this experience quite satisfying.
Final Thoughts
The 2 Hour Horseback Ride in Glenwood Springs offers a practical, scenic, and friendly way to see some of Colorado’s best mountain scenery. The combination of accessible riding, stunning vistas, and helpful guides makes it a great choice for many travelers. It’s not the cheapest activity around, but the value lies in the relaxed pace and the quality of the scenery.
If you’re looking for a memorable way to connect with Colorado’s natural beauty without needing riding experience, this tour fits the bill. Just remember to come prepared for weather, bring some sunscreen and bug spray, and enjoy the ride.
2 Hour Horseback Ride
“It was a beautiful ride and the guides were awesome. Horses were great and my son is now a horse lover.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is prior horseback riding experience needed?
No, this ride is suitable for beginners, and no prior experience is necessary.
Can children participate?
Yes, children as young as 7 years old can join, provided they are at least 42 inches tall.
Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is the Bair Ranch Rest Area in Gypsum, Colorado, and the activity ends back at that same location.
How long does the ride last?
The ride lasts approximately 2 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
What should I bring?
While not specified, it’s wise to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and consider bringing water and sunscreen.
Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the experience requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes a horseback riding helmet and guided scenic riding.
How many people will be in the group?
A maximum of 16 travelers participate, ensuring a more personable experience.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 28 days ahead to secure their spot, especially in peak seasons.
What is the overall value of this experience?
Considering the scenic beauty, guided expertise, and relaxed pace, many find it worth the cost for a memorable Colorado adventure.