Horseback Riding in the West

Horseback riding in the western U.S. can take many forms. You can take a slow, calm trail ride. You can work from horseback. All you have to do is determine what type of ride you would like to take.

For the horse enthusiasts, you can either rent a horse or bring your own in many of the national parks in the west. The west offers many different terrains over which riding is possible. Of course, you have to plan the trip with some care so you have the equipment you need for your ride. If you are going to take a ride in the desert, you will need plenty of water and protection from the heat and sun for you and the horse. In the mountains, you need extra clothing for the possible weather changes. Overnight trips will need food, camping equipment and other essentials. Some of the other possibilities are trips to view natural wonders like the Grand Canyon or Mount Rushmore.

If you have never seen a working ranch, there are many dude ranches where you can become a cowboy for a week. There are also many other possible horseback riding opportunities in the west. Around most of the forests, there are horse parks and rental facilities where you can get guided tours or maps for unguided trips. The Rocky Mountains offer a lot of trails and adventure trips you may want to check out.

Horseback riding in the west can be fun and enjoyable, even for those without a horse of their own.