Kanab: Cave Lakes Canyon Horseback Riding Experience

Imagine riding through a canyon framed by towering 100-foot red sandstone walls, with lush green meadows and hidden lakes spread out around you. That’s exactly what you’ll get with the Cave Lakes Canyon Horseback Riding Experience just outside Kanab, Utah. This guided tour, offered by Roam Outdoor Adventure Co., is a perfect way to explore the natural beauty of southern Utah in a peaceful, accessible way.

What truly makes this excursion special is the combination of breathtaking scenery and the well-cared-for horses led by knowledgeable guides. It’s a gentle ride, about 1.5 hours long, suitable for most casual riders, and a fantastic chance to see a different side of Utah’s iconic landscapes.

However, one point to keep in mind is the group size—it’s limited to 10 participants, which means a more intimate experience, but also that spots can fill up quickly. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 8 or anyone over 220 lbs, so it’s best for families with older kids or adults seeking a relaxing outdoor activity.

This experience works best for nature lovers, photography buffs, or anyone curious about Utah’s wild side without the strenuous hikes. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned rider, the scenic views and peaceful atmosphere make it a memorable addition to your Utah itinerary.

Key Points

• Great for beginners and casual riders with well-cared-for horses and guided commentary.
• Includes stunning views of red sandstone cliffs, lush meadows, and hidden lakes.
• Small group format ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Duration of 1.5 hours strikes a nice balance between adventure and relaxation.
• Limited to ages 8 and up and under 220 lbs, ensuring safety and comfort.
• Highly rated with a 4.9/5 based on 55 reviews, reflecting consistent quality.

A Scenic Ride Through Cave Lakes Canyon

We love how this tour offers a relaxing, scenic escape from the busier national parks nearby. The trail itself is a 2.5-mile route that winds through a plateau located between Zion National Park and The Grand Canyon, providing views that feel both grand and personal.

You’ll start at Cave Lakes Canyon Ranch, where the guide introduces you to your horse—each carefully matched to your experience level and personality. The horses are described as well cared for with friendly personalities, making the ride enjoyable even for novice riders. Many reviews, like Renae’s, note how the horses’ good care and personalities made the experience even more memorable.

As you follow the trail, you’ll pass through lush pastures filled with native grasses and wildflowers, with the towering red walls of the canyon on either side. The contrast of vibrant green and bold red creates a visual treat and makes for some stunning photo opportunities. Some riders mention that their guides, like Sadie, shared interesting insights about the area, adding an educational element to the ride.

Along the way, you’ll encounter hidden lakes—quiet spots where calm waters reflect the canyon walls—and open meadows, perfect for a quick stop or a moment to soak in the serenity. One reviewer mentioned how their guide took photos during the ride, which turned into cherished memories back home.

The gradual ascent to the low plateau offers a chance to appreciate Utah’s expansive landscape without the exhaustion of a strenuous hike. This vantage point provides sweeping views of the surrounding canyonlands, making it clear why many call this area a hidden gem.

What to Expect During the Tour

Starting at Cave Lakes Ranch, you’ll meet your guide and mount your horse. The initial part of the 2.5-mile trail winds through green pastures, where horses are free to graze and enjoy the environment as your guide shares local stories and insights. Expect a gentle ride, suitable for those with basic riding experience or even absolute beginners, thanks to the well-matched horses and supportive guidance.

The route takes you along a canyon floor into Cave Lakes Canyon, where you’ll be immediately dazzled by the dramatic red sandstone walls towering above you. These walls, some reaching over 100 feet, create a theatrical backdrop for your ride. Photography enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities as the sunlight plays off the rocks and water.

Midway through, you’ll stop at a hidden lake, surrounded by lush greenery, where you can dismount briefly or simply enjoy the tranquil scene from your saddle. Many reviews praise the stops for their calm and beauty, with one mentioning that the temperature was just right—the shade from the canyon walls provided respite from the sun.

The final stretch of the ride ascends to a low plateau—an excellent viewing point where you can take in panoramic vistas of the canyon, Zion, and even the distant Grand Canyon. The guide will share stories about the area’s geology and history, making the experience both visually and intellectually enriching.

The ride concludes back at the starting point, where many travelers remark on how the experience exceeded their expectations for a half-day adventure, especially given the affordable price of $95 per person.

Insights From Reviews

Reviews often highlight the knowledgeable guides—for example, Sadie was described as “lovely,” “friendly,” and “very knowledgeable,” making the experience smoother and more engaging. Many reviewers also mention the carefulness of the horses; one loved that they could see the horses were well cared for, which adds peace of mind for animal lovers.

Several guests appreciated the relaxing pace and beautiful scenery, with comments like “enjoyable relaxing atmospheric” and “the scenery was so beautiful.” The temperature was often praised as being comfortable, thanks to the shaded trails and gentle pace.

It’s worth noting that some guests expressed a wish for more commentary during the ride, which suggests that guides who share interesting facts or stories make the experience even richer. Also, the small group size (limited to ten) ensures plenty of personalized attention, making it feel less like a touristy herd and more like a personal adventure.

Practical Details and Value

At $95 per person, this horseback riding tour offers excellent value, especially considering the intimate setting, knowledgeable guides, and stunning scenery. It’s a wonderful way to experience Utah’s landscapes without the physical strain of hiking or the crowds of larger tours.

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it suitable for most schedules and providing enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. Since it’s a guided tour, you don’t need prior riding experience, though comfortable shoes and long pants are recommended.

Meeting at Cave Lakes Canyon Ranch, the activity ends at the same point, making logistics straightforward. Keep in mind that children under 8 and those over 220 lbs cannot participate, so check those details beforehand.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This horseback ride is ideal for families with older children, beginners, or anyone wanting to see Utah’s natural beauty from a different perspective. If you enjoy gentle outdoor activities, breathtaking scenery, and well-informed guides, this tour hits all those marks.

Animal lovers will appreciate the care and friendliness of the horses, while photography enthusiasts will love the photo opportunities amid the striking canyon walls.

For travelers seeking an activity that combines adventure with tranquility, without the physical challenge of long hikes, this experience offers a perfect balance.

The Sum Up

The Cave Lakes Canyon Horseback Riding Experience offers a relaxed, scenic journey through one of Utah’s lesser-known but visually stunning areas. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the landscape without needing prior riding experience, thanks to the well-matched horses and expert guides.

The tour’s small group size and focus on safety and comfort ensure a personal touch, and the views of red sandstone cliffs and lush meadows make it a memorable part of any Utah trip. The price point is reasonable for the quality of the experience, especially considering the number of photo opportunities and the peace of mind from guided insights.

Whether you’re an animal lover, a landscape enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful outdoor activity, this ride is a wonderful choice. It’s best suited for those aged 8 and above who want a gentle yet breathtaking adventure through Utah’s rugged beauty.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for most riders, with well-cared-for horses and guided support.

How long does the horseback ride last?
The ride typically lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and long pants are recommended for riding.

Can children participate?
Children under 8 years old are not suitable for this tour.

Are there weight restrictions?
Yes, participants over 220 lbs (100 kg) are not able to join for safety reasons.

Where does the tour start and end?
The activity begins and ends at Cave Lakes Canyon Ranch, making logistics simple.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the horses and the guide. Food and beverages are not included.

Is there a cancelation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

This carefully curated horseback riding tour combines natural beauty with a peaceful pace, making it ideal for those looking to step into Utah’s incredible landscape without the rush of a busy trail. It’s a memorable way to connect with nature, see striking scenery, and enjoy the companionship of friendly horses—all within a manageable, well-organized experience.