Smiling young rider in a helmet on horseback during a golden sunset in Moab, Utah.

Horseback Riding in Moab

Ride Through Red Rock Country Like a True Explorer

There are countless ways to experience the desert beauty of Moab, but few match the timeless rhythm of horseback riding through its sandstone canyons and open mesas. Whether you are new to riding or have spent years in the saddle, horseback riding in Moab connects you to the landscape in a way no vehicle or hiking boot ever could. Picture yourself trotting beneath towering red cliffs, crossing shallow creeks, and gazing at distant arches framed by desert sky. All from the back of a gentle, sure-footed horse.

This guide covers everything you need to know about horseback riding in Moab: where to go, when to ride, how much tours cost, what to bring, and what to expect along the way. You will also find tips for pairing your ride with great meals and other adventures nearby.

Where to Go Horseback Riding in Moab

Moab’s red rock country is home to several local outfitters offering guided horseback tours through classic desert landscapes. Most tours are designed for beginners and families, with calm, trail-trained horses and experienced wranglers who share stories about geology, wildlife, and local history along the way.

Here are some of the most popular areas for horseback riding in Moab:

1. Castle Valley and Fisher Towers

This area east of Moab is one of the most photographed places in Utah. Riding here feels like stepping into an old Western film. The backdrop includes towering spires, the winding Colorado River, and the snowcapped La Sal Mountains. Trail rides often follow scenic routes along the river or out toward Fisher Towers, where the red cliffs glow during sunset rides.

Highlights: Panoramic views, wildflower meadows in spring, and quiet trails away from the crowds.

Recommended for: Beginner and intermediate riders who want postcard-perfect scenery.

2. Sand Flats Recreation Area

Just outside Moab’s town center, Sand Flats is known for its slickrock biking trails and off-road routes, but it is also an incredible place for guided horseback tours. You will ride across rolling sandstone domes, weave through juniper and pinyon trees, and stop at overlooks with views of Arches National Park in the distance.

Highlights: Close to town, great for short rides, and family-friendly.

Recommended for: Visitors with limited time who still want a taste of desert riding.

3. Arches National Park (Private-Land Adjacent Rides)

While horseback riding inside Arches National Park is limited to specific zones and requires permits, several nearby private ranches offer guided rides that border the park’s boundaries. These routes give you the same red rock magic without the crowds or restrictions. Expect incredible photo opportunities of distant arches, fins, and buttes.

Highlights: Iconic landscapes, knowledgeable guides, and smaller group sizes.

Recommended for: Riders looking for solitude and spectacular views.

4. Canyonlands Outskirts and the Colorado River Corridor

If you are looking for longer, half-day or full-day adventures, outfitters also lead trips into the canyons near Canyonlands National Park. These rides often follow the Colorado River corridor and feature sweeping views of the mesas above. Some include picnic stops or short hikes to scenic lookouts.

Highlights: Remote desert beauty and diverse terrain.

Recommended for: Riders comfortable spending several hours in the saddle.

Summary

Moab offers horseback riding for every interest—from quick one-hour loops near town to full-day rides through wild desert canyons. Each area showcases a different side of the red rock country, so you can choose your ride based on scenery, time, and skill level.

Best Time to Go Horseback Riding in Moab

Spring and fall are the best times for horseback riding in Moab. From March through May and September through early November, temperatures range from the 60s to 80s during the day—perfect for exploring without the intense summer heat.

In summer, morning and sunset rides are most comfortable, as midday temperatures often exceed 95 degrees. Winter rides are available through some outfitters, though conditions can vary depending on snow and cold.

Best Seasons:

  • Spring (March–May): Wildflowers bloom and riverbanks are lush.

  • Fall (September–November): Cooler temperatures and golden cottonwoods line the trails.

  • Summer (June–August): Ride early or late in the day to avoid heat.

Brown and white sign at a horseback riding stable that reads “If you liked your ride, kiss your horse and tip your guide.
Close-up of a brown horse with a bridle under a clear desert sky near Moab, Utah.

How Much Horseback Riding in Moab Costs

Prices vary by season, length of ride, and group size. Expect the following general ranges:

  • One-hour rides: $75–$90 per person

  • Half-day rides (2–3 hours): $110–$150 per person

  • Full-day adventures: $175–$250 per person (often includes lunch and transportation)

Children are typically welcome on shorter rides, and most outfitters provide helmets, saddles, and basic instruction before you head out. Group and family discounts are often available, and Moabing.com can help you find the best seasonal savings or bundled tour options.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Riding through the desert is surprisingly comfortable when you come prepared.

Essentials:

  • Closed-toe shoes or light hiking boots

  • Long pants or jeans

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat

  • Camera or phone (with wrist strap or secure pocket)

Optional Items:

  • Light jacket (especially in spring or fall)

  • Snacks for longer rides

  • Cash tip for your guide

All reputable Moab outfitters provide helmets and horse gear, so you only need to bring personal essentials and a spirit of adventure.

Pro Tip: Arrive at least 15 minutes early to sign waivers and meet your horse. Most guides will match you with a horse based on your experience and comfort level.

What to Expect on a Guided Horseback Ride

Your experience begins at the trailhead or ranch, often just 10–20 minutes outside downtown Moab. Guides provide a short orientation covering basic commands, safety, and how to handle your horse on the trail.

Once you set off, the pace is relaxed consisting of mostly walking, with occasional gentle trotting for more confident riders. Along the way, you may spot desert wildlife such as lizards, cottontails, and soaring hawks. Guides often share stories about Moab’s geology, early settlers, and the Indigenous peoples who lived in these canyons long before modern visitors arrived.

Typical Ride Durations:

  • 1-hour scenic rides (perfect for families or first-timers)

  • 2- to 3-hour adventures into canyons and mesas

  • Full-day excursions with picnic lunches and exploration stops

Most tours are suitable for beginners, and guides will make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable before heading out.

Frequently Asked Questions About Horseback Riding in Moab

Do I need experience to go horseback riding in Moab?
No experience is required. Most tours are beginner-friendly, and guides will show you everything you need to know before the ride.

Are there age or weight limits?
Most outfitters welcome riders ages 6 and up, with weight limits typically around 230–250 pounds for horse safety.

Can I ride inside Arches or Canyonlands National Park?
Yes, but only with proper permits and in designated areas. Most visitors opt for private-land tours near the parks, which offer similar views and greater flexibility.

Is horseback riding available year-round?
Yes, but tour availability depends on weather. Spring and fall offer the best combination of comfort and scenery.

Can I combine horseback riding with other Moab adventures?
Absolutely. Many visitors pair morning rides with afternoon rafting on the Colorado River or sunset hikes to Arches. Moabing.com can help you plan combination packages or find seasonal deals.

Dining and Relaxation After the Ride

After a day in the saddle, you will be ready for a hearty meal and some relaxation. For local dining, check out EatingMoab.com, where you will find handpicked restaurant guides by locals who know how to refuel right. A few local favorites include:

  • Moab Diner for classic comfort food

  • 98 Center for fresh Vietnamese-inspired dishes

  • Sweet Cravings Bakery for sandwiches and homemade desserts

If you are staying overnight, unwind with a stroll along the Colorado River or cool off at your lodging before catching the sunset from the Moab Rim Trail.

Pair Your Ride with More Adventure

Horseback riding in Moab is just one of many unforgettable experiences here. Once you have explored the desert from the saddle, you can:

Moab is a place where one adventure naturally leads to the next.

Saddle Up and Experience the Real Moab

Horseback riding in Moab brings you closer to the desert’s soul. It is quiet, unhurried, and utterly authentic. Whether you choose a quick sunset ride near Fisher Towers or a full-day journey across sandstone mesas, you will see Moab the way explorers once did. Relax and be guided by hoofbeats, fresh air, and endless horizons.

If you are ready to plan your Moab horseback riding adventure, browse tours, and secure exclusive price savings, Moabing.com can help you find the right outfitter and bundle it with other unforgettable experiences.