Cowpoke Ride: Adventurous horseback tour just 9 MILES from Sedona

Cowpoke Ride: An Adventurous Horseback Tour Just 9 Miles from Sedona

If you’re looking to add a touch of authentic Arizona charm to your trip, the Cowpoke Ride offers an experience worth considering. This horseback adventure, run by Horsin’ Around Adventures, is highly praised for its friendly guides, beautiful scenery, and accessible trail suitable for beginners and kids alike. It’s a fantastic way to spend a couple of hours away from the busier parts of Sedona, especially if you’re craving some outdoor serenity and a bit of cowboy flair.

What really stands out about this tour? First, the personalized approach and friendly staff make even nervous riders feel comfortable. Second, the stunning canyon views along rolling hills and wine country terrain are genuinely memorable. The only thing to keep in mind is that the tour operates seasonally and weather can impact availability, so booking in advance is smart.

This ride is best suited for those who enjoy gentle outdoor activities, are looking for a family-friendly outing, or simply want a scenic way to explore Arizona’s natural beauty without much prior riding experience. If you’re after a quick, fun, and accessible horseback experience, this might just be your perfect fit.

Key Points

• Accessible for all experience levels: No need to be a seasoned rider; the horses are gentle and the trail is designed to suit everyone.
• Stunning scenery: Expect breathtaking canyon views, rolling hills, and a glimpse of nearby vineyards.
• Family-friendly: Minimum age is 7, and reviews confirm it’s suitable for kids with patient guides and calm horses.
• Professional guides: The staff is consistently praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and safety consciousness.
• Good value for the price: At $139 per person for about 90 minutes, you get a memorable outdoor experience that’s relaxed and scenic.
• Weather-dependent: The tour is weather-sensitive, and cancellations due to poor weather are handled with rescheduling options.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

The Cowpoke Ride begins at the ranch located just outside Cornville, AZ, about 9 miles from Sedona. The meeting point is straightforward, with the entire activity running with small groups—usually around 10 people at most—making it intimate and personal.

The Ride Itself

Once you arrive, your guides will equip you with a helmet (which is mandatory for all participants) and give a brief safety overview. Don’t worry if you’re a first-timer; there’s no riding experience required, and the horses are well-trained, calm, and suited for all comfort levels. Several reviewers mentioned their initial nervousness, which quickly melted away thanks to patient guides like David and Matt, who tailored the experience to individual needs.

The trail takes you through canyon terrain, with rolling hills and a lovely view of nearby vineyards and the Verde Valley. The terrain is described as “canyon” with some rocky parts, but the horses handle it smoothly. Expect about an hour and a half of riding, during which you’ll enjoy a leisurely pace that’s perfect for taking in the scenery, snapping photos, and relaxing into the experience.

The Guides

The guides are often highlighted as the best part of this tour. From personable and informative to attentive and safety-conscious, they add a lot of value. Multiple reviews mention guides like Newt and Houston by name, praising their friendliness and professionalism. They’re great at making everyone feel at ease, whether you’re a confident rider or a complete beginner. If you’re riding with children, you’ll appreciate how guides keep the atmosphere fun and safe.

Horses and Other Pets

The horses themselves are described as gentle, well-behaved, and experienced in handling a variety of riders. Some reviews mention they are “nose to tail horses,” meaning they move at a comfortable, slow pace, ideal for novices and kids. A few also mentioned they brought apples to feed the horses, which was a hit with everyone—and a fun little perk for animal lovers.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Beyond the scenery, what makes this ride stand out is the sense of being part of a genuine cowboy experience, even if just for a morning or afternoon. The views are genuinely stunning, more so because the group size is kept small and intimate, allowing you to really soak in the natural beauty.

Family & Kid-Friendly

This tour is suitable for kids aged 7 and above. Multiple reviews specifically highlight how the guides made children feel comfortable and safe. The horses are described as calm and patient, which is important when riding with younger participants. If you’re traveling with family, this is a good choice for a relaxed, scenic outdoor activity that everyone can enjoy.

Pricing and Value

At $139 per person, the cost reflects a moderate price point for a guided 1.5-hour horseback ride in a beautiful location. Considering the small-group setting, professional guides, and scenic terrain, most travelers find it offers good value—especially when compared with other outdoor activities in the area.

Keep in mind, gratuity for the guides is recommended at 15-20%, which is pretty standard. The tour is non-refundable or changeable, so booking in advance when the weather looks favorable is advisable.

Practical Details & Tips

• Booking: Most travelers book about 15 days in advance, which shows this tour is popular but still accessible.
• Departure times: Vary seasonally—10 AM from October to April, and 9 AM from May to September. Check ahead for updates or larger group needs.
• Age & weight: Minimum age is 7; all riders should be able to balance while riding. There’s no weight restriction, just requiring balanced riding.
• What to bring: Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a camera. Helmets are provided, but bring your own if you prefer.
• Weather: The tour is weather-dependent and may be canceled if conditions are poor. Cancellations are handled with rescheduling or full refunds.

Why You Might Love It

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic outdoor activity with friendly guides and gentle horses, this tour hits all the marks. The views alone are worth the trip, especially as you get away from the more crowded parts of Sedona. For families, it offers a safe environment for kids to try horseback riding, and for solo travelers or couples, it’s a peaceful way to connect with nature.

Who Should Skip It?

Anyone looking for a high-adrenaline or challenging riding experience might find this too tame. Also, if you’re not comfortable with horses or have mobility concerns that prevent balancing on a saddle, this may not be the best fit. The ride isn’t suitable for those with large weight restrictions, but all riders should be able to keep their balance.

Final Thoughts

The Cowpoke Ride is a straightforward, enjoyable horseback adventure that combines easy access, stunning scenery, and friendly guides. It’s particularly suited for those seeking a family-friendly outing, first-time riders, or anyone who simply wants a peaceful break amidst Arizona’s beautiful landscape. At a fair price and with consistently positive reviews, it’s a safe bet for a memorable outdoor activity just outside Sedona.

For anyone craving a gentle ride with breathtaking views and a touch of cowboy spirit, this tour offers a solid, honest experience that’s more about the scenery and good company than adrenaline rushes or complex riding skills.

FAQ

Is prior horseback riding experience required?
No, all experience levels are welcomed. The trail is designed to accommodate beginners and those with more experience.

What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be at least 7 years old.

Are there any weight restrictions?
No, there are no weight restrictions, but riders should be able to keep their balance on the horse.

How long is the ride?
The tour lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including safety briefings and riding time.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended. Helmets are provided.

Can I upgrade to a private tour?
Yes, private tours are available but should be booked by calling directly, especially for larger groups or last-minute availability.

What is the cancellation policy?
The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. Poor weather may lead to cancellations, with options for rescheduling or refunds.

Is the tour suitable for families with kids?
Yes, it’s highly recommended for kids aged 7 and up, with gentle horses and guides attentive to children’s comfort.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled or rescheduled, but you’ll be offered options to rebook or get a full refund.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at 2650 Dancing Apache Rd, Cornville, AZ 86325.

Overall, if you’re after a scenic, friendly, and accessible horseback riding experience near Sedona, this Cowpoke Ride ticks a lot of boxes. It’s a relaxed yet memorable way to connect with Arizona’s natural beauty and cowboy spirit—without any stress or fuss.