One of the more unique ways to see Estes Park and the Rocky Mountains is by way of horseback. It’s a great way to cover more ground yet still at a leisurely pace. There are several stables in the area that offer guided horseback rides, both inside the park and nearby. Estes Park even has some stables that offer riding year-round. Whether you are an experienced rider, or this is your first time there are horses and trails for all ability levels. Discover these horseback riding trails near Estes Park and begin your ride today!
Rocky Mountain National Park
Inside Rocky Mountain National Park there are many trails open to horses. Approximately 260 miles of trails are open to commercial and private horse use, making up about 80% of the total trail network in the park. The best part is there are trails for all skill levels, so both families and experienced riders can enjoy the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. A few popular horseback riding trails near Estes Park include the following:
Easy
- Alberta Falls
- Little Horseshoe Park Trail
- South Lateral Moraine Trail
Moderate
- Bierstadt Lake Loop
- Cub Lake Trail
- Fern Lake Trail
Difficult
- Chasm Lake
- Twin Sisters Peak
- Lawn Lake Trail
Glacier Creek Stables is the only stable located inside the park. They offer 1.5-hour rides along with longer two and three-hour rides through the park.
Stables in Estes Park
There are several stables outside of the park as well that are happy to take you out on the trails for an afternoon of horseback riding. Sombrero Stables in Estes Park is a popular choice amongst visitors. They offer one and two-hour rides that take you to scenic viewpoints of the Continental Divide, Long’s Peak, and Estes Valley.
SK Horses is another favorite option in town. Enjoy guided rides through Rocky Mountain National Park or the Roosevelt National Forest. Their most popular is the two-hour ride that follows the Fall River to the base of Deer Mountain and Aspen Glen area into Lil Horseshoe Park and Hidden Meadows. Take in the beauty of wildflowers that dot the area, surrounded by the snow-capped mountains nearby. They also feature three and four-hour rides as well. And if you are really up for a full day, sign up for their six-hour ride that takes you to the top of Deer Mountain for panoramic views of the Continental Divide.
Best time for horseback riding near Estes Park
Many of the stables open for the season in mid to late-May for the summer and fall seasons. While you can technically take your horses out on the trail any time of year, winter is not advisable. Even spring can be a bit muddy, so late spring into the summer months is your best time for horseback riding.
Stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts
After a full day exploring these horseback riding trails near Estes Park, come back to your cozy cabin at Rocky Mountain Resorts and relax with a good book, a glass of wine or beer, curled up by the fire, or soaking in your relaxing hot tub. Choose from our cabins with a private hot tub, cabins with a fireplace, or even accommodations with a whirlpool tub. Either way, an evening of relaxation isn’t far away when booking one of our Estes Park lodging options.
