Los Angeles: Mulholland Trail Horseback Riding Tour

If you’re looking to see Los Angeles from a different perspective, the Mulholland Trail Horseback Riding Tour offers a unique way to experience the city’s natural beauty and iconic sights. With stunning views, gentle horses, and a knowledgeable guide, this tour promises an outdoor adventure that’s accessible even for beginners.

One of the best things about this experience is how close it gets you to LA’s famous landmarks, like the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory, all while riding through the lush hills of Griffith Park. It’s perfect for travelers craving a relaxed, picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of LA’s busy streets.

A potential consideration? The tour is about an hour long—which is great for a quick outing, but might feel a little short for those hoping for a longer ride. Also, the strict weight limit of 240 lbs is something to keep in mind if you’re concerned about riding comfort or safety.

This tour suits those who want a fun, scenic introduction to horseback riding, nature lovers eager for panoramic city views, or anyone celebrating a special day with a memorable outdoor activity.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Experience panoramic vistas of Los Angeles, including the Hollywood Sign and downtown skyline.
• Accessible for Beginners: No prior riding experience needed, with calm horses and professional guides ensuring safety and comfort.
• Convenient Location: Sunset Ranch is just minutes from Hollywood Blvd and easily reachable from major attractions.
• Authentic LA Experience: Ride through Griffith Park’s famous hills with expert commentary from guides who know the area well.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for children 8 years and older, with a relaxed pace that’s perfect for novices or those with small kids.
• Great Value: At $75 per person for an hour, it offers a memorable, scenic adventure that balances affordability with quality.

An In-Depth Look at the Mulholland Trail Horseback Riding Tour

Starting Point & Ease of Access

The tour begins at Sunset Ranch, conveniently located just a few minutes from Hollywood Boulevard. It’s easy to get to, with designated parking right next to the ranch entrance—no need to hunt for a spot or worry about complex transportation arrangements. You’ll find the ranch office on the right after passing through a gate on Beachwood Drive, with a walk-up hill marked by a yellow fire hydrant leading to check-in.

This initial ease of access sets the tone for the experience—relaxed, well-organized, and welcoming. Many reviewers highlighted how simple it was to find the ranch and park, which is a big plus in busy LA.

The Trail & Scenic Highlights

Once checked in, you’ll meet your guide, who will introduce you to the horses—each with its own personality. Guides like Megan, who was praised for her patience and knowledge, make a difference in how comfortable and informed you’ll feel.

The trail itself is set through Griffith Park’s famous hills, with wide paths that allow for a relaxed, line-above-line walk at a gentle pace. The horses walk near the trail edges, instinctively keeping an eye on their surroundings—so beware if you have a severe fear of heights, as the horses may walk close to the edge of the trails.

Expect to see some iconic sights during your ride. Reviewers repeatedly mentioned the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory as highlights, along with sweeping views of downtown LA. Many note that even on foggy days, the scenery is breathtaking, and the guides do their best to give a memorable experience regardless of weather conditions.

The Horses & Guides

The horses are described as calm, well-trained, and gentle—suitable for all levels, especially beginners or nervous riders. One reviewer noted that the horses had distinct personalities, which added to the fun. Guides, like Carly or Izzy, go above and beyond to make everyone feel comfortable, offering assistance with mounting, dismounting, and ensuring safety throughout.

Guides are also known for their local knowledge, offering interesting tidbits about LA’s geography and landmarks, which enhances the experience. Several reviews mentioned staff members by name, highlighting their kindness and attentiveness.

Duration & Experience

The ride lasts about an hour, making it perfect for a half-day activity. Although some reviewers found it to be a bit short, the focus on quality and scenic views makes this time feel well spent.

The tour includes a helmet and a horse, with no prior experience necessary. Participants are advised to bring a phone or small camera—bags aren’t allowed on the trail—but the guides are happy to take photos of you with your device.

The Authentic LA Vibe

What sets this tour apart is the chance to see Los Angeles from a vantage point most visitors never get—high above the city, surrounded by nature, yet with stunning views of the Hollywood Sign and skyline. Reviewers consistently express how special and unique this perspective is, especially compared to typical city tours.

Customer Experience & Reviews

The high praise in reviews, with a 4.8/5 rating from over 370 reviews, speaks volumes about the quality of the experience. Guests mention the friendly staff, the well-cared-for horses, and the breathtaking scenery. Notably, many reviewers point out the guides’ attentiveness—whether it’s helping with fears, taking photos, or sharing local insights.

One guest said, “The horses were fantastic. They were calm and sturdy,” which is exactly what you want for a relaxed ride. Another appreciated how the ranch staff, including a vet, ensure the horses’ welfare, adding a layer of confidence for animal lovers.

Price & Value

At $75 per person, this experience offers excellent value. Considering the location, the guided nature of the tour, and the scenic payoff, it’s a worthwhile investment for those looking for a memorable way to see LA’s hills. It’s especially good for travelers who want an activity that’s fun but not physically demanding, with the bonus of being outdoors and close to iconic landmarks.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This horseback riding experience is ideal for beginners and families looking for a gentle, scenic adventure, rather than an intense riding session. It’s perfect for those with a mild interest in horses or outdoor activities, and for travelers who want to see LA from a high vantage point without straying too far from the city.

It’s also a good choice for celebrating special occasions—many reviews mention birthday rides and memorable outings. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those with severe fears of heights.

Final thoughts

This tour offers a balanced combination of beautiful scenery, professional guidance, and affordability. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy LA’s natural landscapes, especially if you’re curious about riding but unsure where to start.

While it’s relatively short, the views and the personalized attention from guides make it feel like a special, authentic experience. Plus, riding through Griffith Park with the Hollywood Sign looming above? That’s a moment you’ll remember long after the ride ends.

FAQs

Is prior horseback riding experience required?
No, beginners are welcome. The horses walk at a relaxed pace, and guides ensure everyone feels comfortable.

How long is the tour?
The ride lasts about an hour, which is perfect for a quick scenic escape.

Can kids join the tour?
Yes, children 8 years and older can participate, but all minors must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, and bring a small camera or phone for photos. Helmets are provided.

Is there parking available?
Yes, designated parking is available on the ranch’s property, right next to the entrance.

Are there any health or weight restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for those over 240 lbs or with certain health considerations like recent surgeries or mobility issues.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour proceeds rain or shine, but heavy weather could impact visibility. Check the weather forecast and contact the ranch if you have concerns.

To sum it up, the Los Angeles Mulholland Trail Horseback Riding Tour combines scenic views, expert guides, and a relaxed pace to create a memorable outdoor experience. Whether you’re a first-time rider, a nature lover, or someone celebrating a special day, this ride offers a delightful glimpse of LA’s famous hills and iconic sights from a fresh vantage point. If you’re after a fun, relatively short adventure that balances nature, city views, and a touch of equestrian charm, this tour is well worth considering.