Sunset Horseback Ride With BBQ Dinner in Cool Mountain Las Vegas

Planning a trip to Las Vegas often means thinking about dazzling lights, world-class shows, and endless entertainment. But stepping outside the Strip opens up opportunities for authentic outdoor adventures—like the Sunset Horseback Ride with BBQ Dinner offered by Silver State Horseback Riding Tours. While we haven’t personally saddled up for this experience, the details, reviews, and itinerary paint a compelling picture for those craving a mix of scenic beauty, local history, and a hearty meal under the open sky.

This tour is a great choice for travelers who want to escape the neon glow and explore Nevada’s rugged mountain landscape. We’re particularly fond of the stunning views and knowledgeable guides, which seem to make the experience both relaxing and enriching. However, it’s worth mentioning that logistical hiccups, like the GPS misdirection reported by some, could be a concern for late arrivals or first-timers. This tour feels ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, or anyone looking for a memorable evening surrounded by Nevada’s natural beauty.

If you enjoy gentle, well-trained horses, scenic vistas, and a laid-back atmosphere with good food at the end, this tour could be a highlight of your Las Vegas trip. It’s particularly suited for those who prefer outdoor activities over indoor casino hopping or long sightseeing buses. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this experience worthwhile—and what you should keep in mind before booking.

Key Points

• Beautiful mountain backdrop with views of geologic layers similar to those in the Grand Canyon.
• Knowledgeable guides provide insight into the area’s history and scenery, enhancing the ride.
• Calm, trained horses suitable for riders of most experience levels.
• Includes a hearty BBQ dinner with fixings and dessert, making it a well-rounded evening activity.
• Limited to 20 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Weather-dependent, with a clear policy on cancellations due to poor conditions.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at Smith’s Marketplace, 9710 W Skye Canyon Park Dr, Las Vegas, with a start time of 6:30 pm. The use of Uber and Lyft makes reaching the location fairly straightforward, although some reviews mention GPS issues that could cause confusion—so it’s wise to arrive early or confirm directions before you go.

Once you arrive, friendly guides greet you and introduce you to the horses. The meeting spot is in a rural setting, away from the hustle of the Strip, offering a peaceful atmosphere that immediately sets a relaxed tone.

The Ride: Scenic and Educational

The trail area, called Rainbow Gardens, is notable for its spectacular mountain and canyon landscape. Here, the geologic layers exposed are similar to those found in the Grand Canyon, adding a layer of geological interest for those curious about Earth’s history.

The horses are described as calm and well-trained, making this ride accessible even for beginners or casual riders. The guide’s role is not only to lead but also to share insights into the area’s natural features and pioneer history, adding an educational element to the adventure. The ability for guides to snap “action shots” of you riding highlights a fun photo opportunity, which many guests seem to appreciate.

Duration and Pace

The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours—a good length for those with limited time but wanting to enjoy a true outdoor experience. The ride is gentle, allowing you to relax, take in the mountain views, and perhaps even spot local wildlife.

The Dinner: A Satisfying Finish

After the ride, guests settle in for a BBQ rib dinner, complete with fixings and pie for dessert, served in a rustic setting. Vegetarian options are available if requested ahead of time, which is a considerate touch. The meal adds great value, transforming what might otherwise be a simple ride into a full evening outing.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for outdoor lovers, families, couples, or groups wanting a scenic escape from Las Vegas. It’s especially suitable for those interested in geology, local history, and nature, as the trail offers scenic vistas and educational insights. The focus on friendly guides and trained horses makes it accessible for most riders, while the sunset timing enhances the visual appeal.

Practical Considerations

Pricing and Value

At $130 per person, this tour offers a solid mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and a hearty meal. While not the cheapest activity in Vegas, the inclusion of horses, a guided tour, and dinner makes it a reasonable value for travelers looking for an outdoor experience.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour tends to be intimate, allowing for personalized attention from guides and a more relaxed pace. This is a plus for those seeking a quieter, more authentic outdoor adventure.

Weather and Cancellation

Since the experience relies heavily on good weather, it’s important to note that poor weather could lead to cancellation—with options for rescheduling or refunds. Travelers should plan accordingly, especially during winter months when mountain weather can be unpredictable.

Accessibility and Restrictions

There is a strict 240 lb weight limit, which is common for horseback riding experiences. It’s advisable to contact the provider beforehand if you fall near or above this limit to confirm availability of larger horses.

Reviews and Feedback

One review highlights a GPS issue that led to confusion about the meeting location, stressing the importance of arriving early and double-checking directions. Another review, though limited, praises the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views, reinforcing the idea that this is a worthwhile outing for those who value scenery and education.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This horseback ride and dinner combo is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic vistas, and a relaxed pace. It’s perfect for those wanting to experience Nevada’s natural beauty without straying far from Las Vegas—offering a taste of the wild mountain landscape just a short drive away. The emphasis on knowledgeable guides and stunning views makes it ideal for curious travelers who want more than just a ride; they want an authentic, informative experience.

While it’s not a high-adventure or adrenaline-filled ride, it provides a calm, scenic, and social atmosphere that can be a delightful change of pace from the usual Vegas routine.

FAQ

Is transportation provided to the meeting point?
Transportation is not included, but the tour location is accessible via Uber or Lyft, making it easy to reach on your own.

What should I wear for the horseback ride?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Since the mountain climate can be cooler, especially at sunset, layers are advised.

Are there vegetarian options for the dinner?
Yes, vegetarian dinner options are available upon request—just contact the provider in advance.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour caps at 20 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What if the weather is bad on the day of my ride?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I bring souvenirs or photos?
Photos taken by guides are available “upon request,” but souvenirs or extra photos are not included. You might want to bring your own camera to capture the scenery.

The Sum Up

The Sunset Horseback Ride with BBQ Dinner offers a relaxing, scenic glimpse into Nevada’s rugged mountain landscape, far from the bright lights of Vegas. The combination of friendly guides, well-trained horses, and stunning vistas makes it a memorable outdoor activity, especially for those who enjoy gentle adventures and hearty meals in a casual setting.

While logistical details like GPS directions can be tricky and weather can affect plans, the overall experience promises a peaceful escape into nature, with educational and photographic opportunities along the way. It’s a perfect outing for outdoor enthusiasts, families, or anyone looking to add a touch of authentic Nevada scenery to their Vegas trip.

For travelers seeking a blend of gentle adventure, natural beauty, and good food—especially those interested in learning about the area’s geological features—this horseback ride could be a highlight of your trip. Just be prepared for the weather and ensure your group is comfortable with the riding conditions, and you’ll find this experience worth every penny.