Ruby’s Horseback Adventures All Day Ride

Exploring Bryce Canyon on horseback is a unique way to see the park’s incredible landscapes, and Ruby’s Horseback Adventures offers an experience that blends scenic beauty with a touch of history. This all-day ride takes you through iconic trails overlooking Casto and Losee Canyons, with views that evoke the Wild West days of Butch Cassidy. The tour is designed for those looking for a full-immersion adventure, with expert guides, stunning backdrops, and a well-organized itinerary.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines breathtaking scenery with the storytelling of local guides who truly know their terrain. The chance to ride through areas once used by famous outlaws adds an authentic flavor that makes this more than just a scenic tour. However, as it is a long, physically demanding ride, it’s not suited for absolute beginners or those with limited riding experience. If you’re comfortable on a horse and eager to spend a full day exploring Bryce’s rugged beauty, this could be just the adventure you’re after.

This tour tends to book out well in advance—about 93 days on average—so planning ahead is essential. Also, keep in mind the minimum age requirement of 10 years old and a weight limit of 220 lbs. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activity, are in good physical shape, and appreciate authentic, guided adventures rather than casual horse rides.

Key Points

• Incredible Scenery: Ride through Bryce Canyon’s iconic red rock formations, canyons, and even pass through the “Little Desert.”
• Historical Trails: Experience trails once mastered by Butch Cassidy, adding a sense of wild west history.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Kevin and Jeff are praised for their local knowledge, storytelling, and passion.
• All-Inclusive: Price includes a box lunch, making it a full-day, convenient experience.
• Physical Requirement: Not ideal for first-time riders; moderate fitness and riding experience recommended.
• Seasonal & Bookings: Seasonal activity with limited spots; book roughly 3 months in advance.

An In-Depth Look at the Bryce Canyon Horseback Experience

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Ruby’s Horseback Adventures All Day Ride offers a truly immersive way to see Bryce Canyon’s diverse terrain. While most visitors admire Bryce from viewpoints or on short hikes, this ride takes you deeper into the landscape, offering perspectives that are accessible only from horseback. Riding through the backcountry, you’ll pass Casto Canyon and Losee Canyon, two natural corridors framed by striking red rock walls, and you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back into the Old West.

We loved the way the guides enhanced the experience with stories about the trail’s history, especially the trails once used by Butch Cassidy. This added a layer of historical intrigue to the ride, making it more than just a scenic jaunt. One reviewer, who did the Thunder Canyon and All Day Ride, mentioned the hospitality of the team and their great horses, while another highlighted the guide Kevin’s humor and passion for sharing his local knowledge. Expect guides who are not only skilled riders but also enthusiastic storytellers, eager to make your trip memorable.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

The tour begins promptly at 8:30 a.m. in Bryce Canyon City. As a six-hour adventure, it’s designed to be a full-day activity, giving ample time to explore multiple viewpoints and trail sections. The ride is tailored to those with some riding experience, as it is not recommended for absolute beginners. The horses are well cared for and experienced, which is essential for a ride that covers varied terrains.

The trail winds through several captivating landscapes, including the “Little Desert,” an area evocative of Death Valley surrounded by the vibrant hues of Bryce’s famed canyons. The ride includes more challenging trails that once served as routes for outlaws like Butch Cassidy, giving you a tangible connection to the Old West.

Scenery and Highlights

The vistas you’ll encounter are breathtaking. Passing through red canyon walls, expansive desert-like areas, and lush canyon floors, the ride showcases the diverse geological features that make Bryce Canyon so special. The views over Canyonlands and the surrounding terrain are expansive and perfect for photography.

The ride also offers a chance to see local wildlife, which guides often point out, adding an educational element to the adventure. Expect to see birds, possibly deer or other wildlife native to this semi-arid environment, especially during the early morning hours.

The Guide Experience

Both reviewers raved about the guides. Kevin, the guide featured in one review, was described as “funny,” “passionate,” and willing to share extensive knowledge about the geography, geology, and personal adventures. The guides’ enthusiasm and professionalism make a significant difference, especially on a long ride like this, where storytelling helps pass the time and deepen your appreciation.

Practical Details and Considerations

Price: At $165 per person, including a box lunch, the experience feels well worth it for a full day of guided adventure. Comparing this to other Bryce Canyon tours, you get a deep, scenic ride that’s both accessible and immersive.

Booking & Availability: As this tour is seasonal and tends to be booked 93 days in advance, early reservation is wise to secure your spot. The minimum group size of two ensures a small, personalized experience, but it also means cancellations can occur if demand is low.

Physical Requirements: You should be moderately physically fit. The tour involves riding for 5-6 hours with some challenging trails, so comfort on horseback is necessary. The maximum weight limit of 220 lbs is in place for safety and horse comfort.

Children & Age Limits: Suitable for children aged 10 and above, making it a family-friendly option for active teens.

Cancellation Policy and Weather Considerations

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which provides some flexibility in case of sudden weather changes or unforeseen circumstances. Since the ride is seasonal, poor weather could lead to cancellations, in which case you’d be offered a different date or a full refund.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This horseback adventure is ideal for outdoor lovers who want to see Bryce Canyon from a different perspective. It suits travelers who are comfortable with moderate physical activity and are excited about a longer, guided ride through scenic and historically significant trails. It’s perfect for those interested in wild west lore, stunning vistas, and immersive outdoor experiences—but not for absolute beginners or those with mobility limitations. Families with older children and seasoned riders will find this an unforgettable day out.

Final Thoughts

Ruby’s Horseback Adventures delivers a truly authentic Bryce Canyon experience. The combination of spectacular scenery, knowledgeable guides, and a sense of adventure makes it stand out among park activities. You’ll leave with memories of riding through iconic red rock formations, hearing stories about the Outlaws, and sharing laughs with guides passionate about their home turf.

While it’s a longer, more physically demanding tour, those who enjoy outdoor activities and want a meaningful way to explore Bryce will find this well worth the investment. The inclusion of a lunch, small-group setting, and expert commentary elevates the experience from a simple ride to a memorable adventure.

If your idea of travel includes authentic landscapes, adventure, and storytelling, then this horseback ride will fit seamlessly into your Bryce Canyon trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, this ride is not recommended for first-time riders. It requires some horseback riding experience and a moderate physical fitness level.

How long is the ride?
The adventure lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, starting at 8:30 a.m., providing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and trails.

What’s included in the price?
The cost of $165 per person includes a full-day guided ride and a box lunch so you can refuel during the day.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children must be at least 10 years old to participate, making it suitable for active older kids and teens.

What about weather cancellations?
Since the tour is seasonal, poor weather can lead to cancellations. In such cases, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Given the popularity and seasonal nature, booking about 3 months in advance is recommended, as the tour tends to fill up quickly.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, maintaining an intimate and guided experience.

To sum it up, Ruby’s Horseback Adventures offers a uniquely scenic, historically flavored journey through Bryce Canyon that’s perfect for travelers seeking adventure, authentic landscapes, and expert guidance. It’s a memorable way to connect with the land and history, suited best for active, experienced riders eager to see Bryce from horseback.