While Winter Park is best known for it’s winter activities in the snow covered hills of the valley, it’s also known for the country comfort of horseback riding. There are plenty of options for those looking to enjoy a trail ride alone, with a loved one, or even with the whole family. Winter Park offers a variety of summer canters atop the mountain side, or horse-drawn sleighs during the winter.
Summer Trails
Sombrero Stables
The Sombrero Stables offer plenty of options and activities for your inner cowboy or cowgirl, you just have to make a reservation in advance! They offer plenty of options depending on how long you’d like to be out and about. These paths will take you across varying terrain, steep slopes and gorgeous views. One of the available trails will take you to the top of Nine Mile Mountain. If you have a hungry appetite for the wilderness and food, they also offer Breakfast and Dinner Rides. Ride for an hour and a half, stop at the chuck wagon for a fresh cooked meal.
If you’ve never tried “Cowboy Coffee” then now is your chance!
Devil’s Thumb Ranch
Experience their 6,000 acres of gorgeous land by wagon or horseback. Devil’s Thumb Ranch offers various trips and trails depending on your family’s needs. Trips can be as short as a half an hour for the younger children, or as long as two and a half hours for those who really love reenacting their “Wild west” cowboy dreams. Their expert trail guides will take you and your horse companion around their estate.
If you’re interested in “helping out” around the stable, they also offer the “Rancher’s Ride” where you can improve your skills cutting, moving and penning cattle under the helpful supervision of a friendly wrangler. Don’t worry if it’s your first time, they’re ready to help!
Winter Park Trail Rides
The experts at Winter Park Trail rides will confidently guide you and your seasoned trail horse for a scenic trip through Fraser Valley. This trip is packed with breathtaking views along the trail. To the east of your travels, you’ll be able to see the Indian Peaks Wilderness area. Without giving away too much, there’s a special view waiting for you at the peak of the mountain. The Indian Peaks Wilderness is nearly 75,000 of raw wild beauty that contains vast areas of alpine tundra, remnant glaciers and nearly 50 lakes. Wildlife that you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of include elk, mule deer, mountain lions, black bears, bobcats, and snowshoe rabbit.
Winter Park Trail Rides offers one or two hour trips, and provide you with all the necessary equipment to ride. You only need to be wearing the proper attire and attitude!
Winter Trails
Dashing Thru The Snow Sleigh Rides
We all know the song, but have you ever actually gone dashing through the snow? If you’re anywhere near Winter Park this season, you have to come enjoy one of these sleigh rides. Snuggle under warm woolen blankets and relax to the sound of bells jingling as these gentle-giant draft horses pull you through the secluded woods and white blanket meadows.
After the ride, you’re welcome to warm up by the fire with some hot cocoa and marshmallows, or continue your romp in the snow with a quick trip to the sledding hill! If you’re content with relaxing in the warmth, you’ll be accompanied by the gorgeous view of the Continental Divide.
If you’re looking for something more secluded and personal, private rides are offered for smaller parties. Just be sure to make your reservation! Prices vary from age, but any children under the age of four ride for free.
Sombrero Stables
They’re back at it again in the winter! If you wanted to enjoy the winter in the perfect way, then Sombrero Stables has it expertly covered. If you’re keen on dinner and a trip through the powder snow, then we highly recommend the Dinner Sleigh Rides. The trip is a 45 minute looped sleigh ride under the stars, bundling you in warm woolen blankets, and ends at the western dining hall. They don’t serve alcohol, but they do encourage you to bring your own.
If you already have plans for dinner, you could stop by for the Hot Cocoa Sleigh Ride. Let these gentle giants take you through snow covered meadows and winter forests. Disembark your sleigh to rest at a crackling campfire with hot cocoa and marshmallows to warm your insides. Once you’re done with the food and drink, you’re welcome to pet the horses and view the wildlife before returning back to the stables.
Remember, the blankets are provided, but you’re strongly encouraged to carol.
Dog Sled Rides of Winter Park
Okay, you caught us. These aren’t exactly horses, but if you’re a fan of having a trip across the crisp snow with an animal companion then this should be up your alley too! Listen to the pitter-patter of the dog paws on the snow and take in the valley scenery! Pretend for a moment that you’re taking a trek across the land to return home with your trusty husky crew.
Please make your reservations in advance for Dog Sleds of Winter Park so your family doesn’t miss out on this unique experience.
