Santa Fe is well-known the world over as the Land of Enchantment. Why? Because of its captivating beauty and unique enticements. Nestled in the Sangre de Cristo foothills, Santa Fe beckons travelers. While here, many love to soak in the magnificent vistas, colorful cityscape, historic essence, and artistic vibe. Plus, there are so many ways to explore the city’s magical lure, from hiking trails to scenic drives. However, one unique and memorable way is by horseback. Just imagine, you and your companion riding off into the Santa Fe sunset…. Book your stay at our historic Inn of the Turquoise Bear, and enjoy the best Santa Fe horseback riding getaway! Here are 3 local outfitters to take you on the journey of a lifetime.
3 Horseback Riding Tour Companies
Vision Quest Horseback Rides
Vision Quest Horseback Rides is a Native American owned and operated ranch that offers private rides for all levels of experience. Your tour guide, Joaquin, has been a professional horseman/stuntman/actor for over 30 years, and provides participants with a riding orientation and instruction. Choose from one, two, and 3-hour rides as well as sunset rides. If you’re new to horseback riding, you can also sign up for Western riding lessons. Vision Quest is located 20 minutes from the historic Santa Fe Plaza.
Broken Saddle Riding Co.
Open all year, Broken Saddle provides some of the best horseback riding adventures available. Riders of all skill levels will appreciate this local company’s knowledgeable guides, smooth gaited horses, and scenic routes. You will admire a variety of landscapes as you’re guided along various desert, mountain and forest trails. Morning rides reward you with soft golden rays, the sounds of awakening nature, and the promise of a beautiful day. Sunset rides treat you to streaks of color in the blue, Santa Fe sky, and time to reflect on meaningful thoughts.
Broken Saddle’s rides include: historic mining town of Cerrillos; Madrid and La Bajada Overlooks; Devil’s, Crooked Hat, and Elkins Canyons; Cash Entry and Grand Central Silver Mines; Franklin Ridge; and Miner’s Trail. Depending on your experience level, you can walk, trot, canter, or gallop to your heart’s content.
“There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man.”
Santa Fe Western Adventures
Featured in New Mexico Guest Life magazine, Santa Fe Western Adventures is a friendly, family-owned business by life-long New Mexico residents. This private ranch, which has been in the family since 1954, also works in the motion picture and TV industry, and has been featured in Breaking Bad, Longmire, Manhattan, and Too Old to Die Young. They offer horseback rides on diverse terrain with incredible views. Their two-hour sunset ride is recommended for experienced riders only, and includes a short hike up the historic landmark Lone Butte Mountain for a spectacular sunset. What’s more, they keep group sizes small to help give guest’s a safe and more personalized experience.
Horseback Riding Tips
For safety and comfort, please adhere to the following tips:
- What to wear:
- Long pants or jeans.
- Closed-toe shoes, like tennis shoes or boots.
- A hat with a hurricane string (for potential strong winds)
- November through April, bring water or wind resistant jacket or winter coat, a scarf and gloves or mitts.
- You may want to bring bottled water and sunscreen (some companies will provide these essentials for you).
For the best Santa Fe horseback riding getaway, be sure to book your stay at our rambling adobe estate in downtown Santa Fe. You will be just steps away from the heart of the city, yet encapsulated in a Southwestern oasis of terraced gardens and towering pines. Choose from one of our nine unique guest rooms and experience a quintessential Santa Fe getaway.
