Planning a trip to Sonoma County and craving a memorable outdoor adventure? If you’re into scenic views, a touch of wilderness, and a relaxed pace, a horseback riding tour to Skaggs Vista Mountain might just be your thing. This experience offers more than just riding horses; it’s a chance to soak in some of California’s stunning landscapes with a small, intimate group. We’ll share what makes it special, along with some honest thoughts about what to expect, so you can decide if it’s right for you.
What we really love about this tour is the breathtaking scenery—from Lake Sonoma to Dry Creek Valley, the vistas are hard to beat. Plus, the small group size means it isn’t overwhelming and gives you a more personal, relaxed experience. Another big plus is that everything is included, from parking to photos, so no surprise costs.
On the flip side, one thing to consider is that this tour involves some inclines and declines, so it’s not suited for very timid riders or those with mobility concerns. Also, if you’re looking for a longer or more intense ride, this might feel a bit brief at just an hour. Still, if you’re happy with a scenic, manageable ride that’s suitable for most levels, this tour hits the spot.
All in all, this experience is best suited for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and small groups of friends or couples wanting to enjoy the California landscape without the fuss. If you’re after a peaceful, picturesque ride with a touch of adventure, keep reading—we’ll break down what to expect and why it might be just what you’re looking for.
Sonoma: Horseback Riding Tour to Skaggs Vista Mountain
Key Points
- Stunning vistas of Lake Sonoma and Dry Creek Valley make this ride memorable.
- Small group size (limited to 6) ensures a personal experience.
- All-inclusive pricing covers parking, helmets, water, and photos—no hidden costs.
- Suitable for most riders with no experience necessary, but not for the faint of heart due to some inclines.
- Duration is just an hour, making it a manageable activity in a busy itinerary.
- Weather-dependent; poor weather cancels or reschedules the experience.
The tour kicks off at the Southlake Trail, which is a winding, level trail that’s friendly to most riders, even those new to horseback riding. We loved the way this starting section sets a relaxed tone, allowing riders to settle in and enjoy the impressive views of Lake Sonoma stretching out beneath you. It’s an invigorating way to begin, especially for folks who appreciate a gentle introduction before some climbing.
Once you’ve warmed up, the trail meanders through a meadow, where wildflowers and grasses sway in the breeze. Here, the landscape feels open and peaceful, making it easy to relax and enjoy the natural beauty. It’s also where you’ll get your first glimpses of the water and the distant hills, so be sure to have your camera ready. The included photos are a nice touch—they capture the moment without feeling intrusive or rushed.
After the meadow, the trail begins to climb toward Skaggs Vista Mountain. This part is where the views become truly spectacular. You’ll be trotting along on a trail that features some moderate inclines and declines, so a bit of horseback riding experience helps, but it’s not mandatory. We heard from a few guests that the climb can be a bit challenging for first-timers, especially the steeper sections, but most found it manageable with guidance from the friendly guides.
The highlight of the ride is reaching the top of Skaggs Vista Mountain. From here, you’re rewarded with a panoramic view of the left arm of Lake Sonoma, Dry Creek Valley, and beyond. It’s a perfect spot for photos and just soaking in the scenery. The sense of being high above the landscape, with the sun shining and the breeze cooling you off, makes for a very memorable experience.
This isn’t a large tour with dozens of people—it’s capped at just six participants, which is something we really appreciated. It creates a friendly, relaxed vibe, and your guide can give more personalized attention to each rider. If you’re someone who prefers a quieter, more intimate experience, this setup suits you well.
The guides are experienced and friendly, and they do a good job of making sure everyone feels comfortable, even if you’re new to riding. The tour is conducted in English, and the pace is moderate, blending sightseeing with a bit of light riding. We also noted that the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or anyone with back problems, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling with family or friends with health concerns.
At $137 per person, this tour offers a pretty good value considering all that’s included. Parking fees, helmets, bottled water, and photos are all covered—no extra charges pop up later. The hour-long ride is a decent chunk of time, giving you a meaningful taste of horseback riding without feeling like a full-day commitment.
The experience is available both in the morning and afternoon, giving some flexibility to fit into your itinerary. You just need to remember to bring comfortable clothes, long pants, and closed-toe shoes—no sandals or open footwear allowed. Also, backpacks and water bottles are not permitted on the ride, so plan to leave bulky items in your car.
Since the ride depends on good weather, it’s worth noting that if conditions turn poor—rain, high winds, etc.—the tour might be canceled or rescheduled. The good news is that you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is pretty standard but reassuring.
While the ride is suitable for most riding levels, it’s not designed for complete beginners or those with significant mobility issues. The inclines and declines mean you need a moderate physical fitness level, and riders must be under 225 pounds. The minimum age is 12, making it a nice option for families with older children or teens.
If you’re after stunning views and a gentle ride through California’s scenic wilderness, this horseback tour offers a lot for a reasonable price. The small group size ensures a comfortable, personalized experience, and the included photos and amenities make it hassle-free. However, expect a short, scenic ride rather than an adrenaline-filled adventure, and be prepared for some inclines.
This experience is perfect for outdoor lovers, couples, or small groups wanting a peaceful escape into nature. It’s ideal if you’re content with a one-hour ride, don’t mind moderate physical activity, and want to capture some beautiful moments on horseback.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a longer or more intense riding experience, or if you have mobility limitations, you might want to explore other options. This tour strikes a nice balance of scenery, intimacy, and value, making it a worthwhile addition to your Sonoma County trip.
Is this horseback riding tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, no experience is necessary. The tour starts on a level trail, and guides are experienced in helping new riders feel comfortable.
What should I wear for the ride?
Bring comfortable clothes, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Avoid sandals or flip-flops for safety.
Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, riders must weigh less than 225 pounds (102 kg).
Can I bring my own water or backpack?
No, backpacks and water bottles are not allowed on the ride. Water is provided, and you should leave any personal items in your car.
What is included in the price?
The fee covers parking, helmets, bottled water, and photos taken during the ride.
How long is the ride?
The ride lasts about 1 hour, making it a manageable outing that doesn’t take up your whole day.
Is there a minimum age requirement?
Yes, riders must be at least 12 years old.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is transportation included?
No, you’ll need to get to the meeting point on your own. Directions are provided for arriving from both north and south on Highway 101.
If you’re craving a peaceful, scenic horseback ride with spectacular views in Sonoma County, this adventure to Skaggs Vista Mountain ticks a lot of boxes. It’s not overly long or intense, but it offers a lovely way to connect with nature and enjoy California’s beautiful landscape. Just be prepared for some moderate inclines, and you’ll have a memorable experience you’ll likely want to share.
You can check availability for your dates here: