East Zion Pine Knoll Horseback Ride

Discover the East Zion Pine Knoll Horseback Ride: A Genuine Guide to This Scenic Adventure

If you’re considering adding a horseback riding experience to your Zion National Park trip, this tour from East Zion Adventures is worth a closer look. Known for its small-group setting and stunning panoramic views, it seems to strike a good balance between adventure and accessibility. We love that the tour offers scenic vistas of Zion, Cedar Breaks, and the Grand Canyon—it’s a rare chance to see such diverse landscapes in one ride. Plus, the fact that it’s suitable for beginners and more experienced riders makes it appealing to a wide range of travelers.

However, a couple of things to consider before booking: the ride is about 2 hours long, which is a solid chunk of time on horseback, and there’s a strict weight limit of 220lbs. Also, during fall and winter, expect cooler weather, so packing appropriate clothing is essential. This tour seems best suited for those who want a manageable but memorable outdoor experience, especially if you’re into scenic views and gentle adventure rather than hardcore riding.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 8 people) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Stunning views include Zion, Cedar Breaks, and the Grand Canyon—perfect for photo ops.
• Suitable for beginners with an experienced instructor providing guidance throughout.
• Moderate physical activity with manageable elevation gains, ideal for most fitness levels.
• Weather considerations are important, especially in cooler months.
• Strict weight limit of 220lbs to ensure safety and comfort for all riders.

An Honest Look at the East Zion Pine Knoll Horseback Ride

When you’re exploring Zion, it’s easy to be drawn to the well-trodden trails for hiking or jeep tours. But if you’re craving a different perspective—something a little more serene and personal—a horseback ride like this can be surprisingly rewarding. Based on what we’ve seen and from reviews, this experience offers a chance to enjoy Zion’s landscape without the physical strain of hiking, which makes it accessible for many.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The tour kicks off early at 8:00 am from Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort, giving you a good shot at avoiding the midday crowds and catching the morning light on the scenery. From there, you’ll meet your horses and get a quick safety briefing and some guidance from the knowledgeable instructor. The group is kept intentionally small—up to 8 riders—so you won’t feel lost or rushed.

The trail takes you up the side of Pine Knoll, winding through desert forests with occasional steep sections. While these might seem tricky for hikers, they’re more than manageable when riding horseback. The horses are described as “amazing” and “sweet,” which is encouraging if you’re a little nervous about riding or worried about your skill level. The ride itself lasts around 2 hours, providing plenty of time to soak in the mountain views and the sweeping landscape.

The Views and Scenery

The real highlight of this ride is the spectacular vista points you’ll reach along the trail. Once at the summit of Pine Knoll, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Zion, Cedar Breaks, and the Grand Canyon—places that are often out of reach for most visitors without a helicopter or strenuous hikes. One reviewer describes the experience as “incredible,” noting the guide’s knack for pointing out interesting landmarks. The views are especially striking in the early morning light, which makes this ride feel like a true escape into nature’s grandeur.

The Guides and Group Experience

People consistently praise the guides—mentioning that they’re “kind,” “knowledgeable,” and attentive. Having a good instructor can make all the difference, especially if you’re new to riding or unsure about your skills. The small-group format ensures you get personalized attention, which boosts your confidence and makes the entire experience more enjoyable.

The Cost and Value

At $116.91 per person, this isn’t a bargain-basement activity, but considering it includes a guided, scenic horseback ride with stunning views, it’s reasonable. You’re paying for the exclusivity of a small group, expert guidance, and a memorable landscape experience. For many, it’s a worthwhile splurge—even more so if you’re someone who appreciates unique ways to see a national park.

The Practicalities

Keep in mind the strict weight limit of 220lbs—a common restriction for horseback tours for safety reasons. Also, the ride is a moderate physical activity, so having a decent level of fitness helps. In cooler months, bring hats, gloves, and warm clothing, as it can get chilly at higher elevations. The activity ends back at the starting point, so transportation logistics are straightforward.

What Past Participants Say

Reviews are overwhelmingly positive—114 reviews averaging a 4.9-star rating. Kelcie_G, who rode in August, called it an “amazing horseback riding experience,” highlighting the guide and the horses’ temperament. Joy_D, also from June, described it as a “fun family experience,” noting that she was sore for days afterward but still very glad she did it. Meanwhile, Deb_A simply enjoyed reconnecting with horses and the sensory experience, adding a human touch to the ride.

Some critiques are few but worth noting: the ride may not be suitable for those over 220lbs or with limited mobility. Also, if you’re expecting a high-adrenaline ride, this is more of a scenic, gentle trek.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed yet scenic adventure in Zion. It suits those who want an alternative to hiking but still crave impressive views. It’s a good pick if you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy animals, outdoor scenery, or gentle outdoor activities. Since the focus is on scenery and the experience of riding rather than technical riding skills, beginners will feel comfortable, especially with attentive guides.

If you’re an experienced rider looking for something more challenging or a solo traveler seeking adrenaline, this might not hit all your marks. But for most visitors wanting a memorable, scenic ride that’s manageable and well-organized, this is a solid choice.

The Sum Up

The East Zion Pine Knoll Horseback Ride offers a peaceful, scenic way to see Zion’s breathtaking landscapes. The combination of friendly guides, manageable trail difficulty, and stunning vistas makes it a good fit for beginners and those looking for a gentle outdoor adventure. While it’s not the cheapest activity, the intimate group size and spectacular views justify the price for many travelers.

If you’re craving a different perspective of Zion—one that combines nature, animals, and a touch of nostalgia—this ride might be just what you need. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate quality guidance and are prepared for some cool weather in the shoulder seasons.

This tour balances relaxation and adventure, making it a memorable addition to any Zion itinerary. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to enjoy the landscape in a different way, it’s a genuine experience worth considering.

FAQs

Is this horseback ride suitable for beginners?
Yes, the ride is designed to be accessible for beginners, with an experienced guide providing instructions and support throughout. The horses are described as sweet and well-behaved.

What is the maximum weight for participants?
All riders must be under 220lbs for safety and comfort reasons.

How long is the horseback ride?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, which includes the trail to the summit and back.

What should I bring with me?
In cooler months, bring hats, gloves, and warm clothing. Aside from that, just wear comfortable, weather-appropriate attire suitable for riding.

Where do the tours start and end?
The meeting point is Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort on Twin Knolls Rd, Orderville, UT. The ride ends back at the same location.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

If you’re interested in combining this with other Zion adventures, there are plenty of options like slot canyon rappelling or jeep tours to consider. But if it’s scenery, gentle riding, and good guides you’re after, this horseback experience offers an authentic taste of Zion’s natural beauty.