Riding through New Mexico’s stunning scenery has been a tradition of the Southwest for many years. Celebrate this valued tradition with your own Santa Fe horseback riding excursion! With so many ranches and stables nearby Casa Escondida, it may be difficult to find the best one. Luckily for you, we have compiled a list of visitor favorites along with helpful horseback riding tips for beginners.
Best Places for Santa Fe Horseback Riding
Broken Saddle Riding Company
Ride through scenic hills and high desert ranches from the historic mining town of Cerrillos. The Broken Saddle Riding Company is consistently rated one of the top horseback riding experiences and offers trips to several destinations including Madrid Overlook, Devil’s Canyon, and Cash Entry Mine. All their horses are also registered Missouri Foxtrotters and Tennessee Walkers.
The Stables at Bishop’s Lodge
Explore 450 gorgeous acres of land near the Santa Fe National Forest with Stables at Bishop’s Lodge. They are open year-round and provide private custom rides, romantic sunset excursions, horseback riding lessons, and even team building events. A western style orientation session is available with each ride, so you have a better understanding and appreciation for the trail and your horse.
Santa Fe Western Adventures
Located just 8 miles from Santa Fe, Western Adventures offers 1 to 2-hour rides on the Turquoise Trail. The owners have been lifelong residents of the area, so you can ride in ease knowing your friendly guide knows the region front and back. The trek also includes a short trek up Lone Butte Mountain, a historic landmark where you will be introduced to incredible, unobstructed views.
Santa Fe Stables at Black Mesa
As one of the only stables to offer exclusively private rides, Santa Fe Stables at Black Mesa provides a truly customized Santa Fe horseback riding adventure. The stables, located just minutes north of the Santa Fe Plaza, are exposed to sweeping views of the Jemez and Sangre de Cristo mountains. All the ranch horses have been rescued and rehabilitated, so each one is treated with the respect it deserves. Come and experience the bond between horse and human, one of the strongest forces of the west.
Tips for Beginner Horseback Riders
Most Santa Fe Horseback Riding Stables will provide you with important safety tips before you embark, but here is a list of quick pointers to keep you ahead:
- Offer the back of your hand for smelling when greeting your horse. This makes for a proper introduction for the animal.
- Never walk or stand directly behind the horse.
- Wear jeans and closed-toe shoes on the day of your ride.
- Always wear a helmet during your ride.
- Never shout while riding, as this can spook your horse.
- Keep your toes up and heels down while sitting in the saddle.
- Don’t hold the reins too tight, as this could be painful for the horse.
- Be honest with your experience level. Your guide will match you with your perfect horse according to how much horseback riding experience you have.
Enjoy More of Authentic New Mexico During Your Stay at Casa Escondida
Our elegant Chimayo bed and breakfast inn is the perfect escape for a relaxing and memorable getaway. Nestled within the Sangre de Cristo and Jemez mountains, Casa Escondida provides charmingly traditional guestrooms, a Southwest-style breakfast, and unparalleled hospitality. Discover more about us and why we’re the ideal destination for your next vacation to Santa Fe.
Photo Credit: terry6970/Thinkstock
