Orderville: East Zion Park White Mountain Horseback Tour

When it comes to experiencing the stunning landscapes of Utah, few activities can match the blend of adventure and authenticity that this horseback tour in East Zion offers. Combining a short ride through red rock vistas with an exploration of a secluded slot canyon, this tour promises a genuine cowboy experience without requiring prior riding skills.

What we particularly love about this experience is the opportunity to learn the art of reigning a horse from knowledgeable guides, all while soaking in some of the most iconic scenery in the area. A potential consideration is that the tour lasts only about an hour, which might feel brief for those craving a longer ride or more in-depth canyon exploration.

This experience suits first-timers, families, and anyone keen on combining nature, history, and a bit of western charm in a manageable, friendly format. It’s perfect for those with young children (minimum age of 8) or anyone looking for a quick yet memorable adventure.

Key Points

• Authentic horse riding experience designed for beginners with well-trained horses
• Short hike into a stunning slot canyon with towering sandstone walls
• Learn about cowboy history and the backcountry of East Zion from friendly guides
• Ideal for families and first-time riders thanks to the safety-focused approach and group size (limited to 6 participants)
• Affordable price point at $67 per person offers excellent value for this scenic and cultural experience
• Flexible scheduling with check availability for your preferred time

What to Expect from This Horseback Tour

This tour is a well-rounded taste of Zion’s beauty and cowboy culture, designed to give you a quick but meaningful experience. Starting at the stables, you’ll meet your guide—who is often praised for being personable, knowledgeable, and patient—before climbing into the saddle. Inexperienced riders are not left out; they receive a brief riding lesson to ensure comfort and safety before heading out on the trail.

The Ride — Scenic and Educational

The trail itself takes you through the quiet backcountry of East Zion, far from the crowds found deeper in Zion National Park. As you ride, your guide will teach you the art of reigning a horse, giving you a chance to learn some basic riding skills in a relaxed setting. The horses are described as calm, well-trained, and suitable even for complete beginners, which is a huge plus for those nervous about riding.

The highlight of the ride is reaching the mouth of a secluded slot canyon—a narrow, vertical-walled canyon carved by ancient waters. Here, you’ll dismount and walk a short distance into the canyon, marveling at the towering, multi-hued sandstone walls that reach several hundred feet high. This part of the tour is especially popular, with many reviewers noting the “incredible sandstone formations” and “beautiful views” that are worth the walk.

The Short Hike and Canyon Exploration

Once in the canyon, you’ll spend some time walking and taking photos—an opportunity to appreciate the natural artistry of the red rock formations. Several reviews mention how breathtaking the scenery is, with one stating that the canyon “was very cool” and others remarking on the “incredible views and hike” that make this part of the tour memorable.

The Return Ride

After exploring the canyon, you’ll saddle up again for the ride back to the starting point. The entire experience lasts about an hour, making it easy to fit into a busy Zion itinerary. The small group size (limited to 6 participants) ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere, which many reviewers appreciated.

Guides and Equipment

What consistently comes through in reviews is the quality of the guides. Many mention guides like Jason, Trev, Angela, Hank, and Jacob—noted for their friendliness, patience, and deep knowledge of both the horses and the local area. This friendly expert guidance, combined with the well-cared-for horses, creates a safe, comfortable environment for everyone, especially beginners.

All necessary equipment is provided—horses, helmets, and safety gear—so there’s no need to worry about bringing your own. Guides often go beyond just riding, sharing stories about cowboy history and local flora, adding educational value to the fun.

Safety and Comfort

This tour is designed to be accessible and safe for those new to horseback riding. Riders must be at least 8 years old and under 220 lbs, which helps ensure a safe experience for most. The ride is paced appropriately for beginners, with guides attentive to rider comfort.

The Value and Pricing

At $67 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the intimate group size and the combination of scenic riding with a canyon hike. Many reviewers describe it as “amazing value” and highlight the quality of the experience relative to the cost.

While food and drinks are not included, the tour’s focus is on the scenery, riding, and learning, making it a straightforward, no-fuss activity. It’s a perfect quick escape to enjoy Zion’s rugged beauty without a lengthy commitment.

Practical Details

• Duration: approximately 1 hour, with check availability for specific start times
• Meeting Point: Park in the lot at the pickleball courts, cross the street to the corrals
• What to Bring: Warm clothing (especially in fall/winter), hat, camera, snacks, water, jacket, gloves
• Not Allowed: Pets, alcohol, or drugs on the tour
• Weather: Tour operates in good weather; bad weather cancels the experience
• Accessibility: Not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

One guest, Natalie, who has lived in Utah for 30 years, shared how her guide Hank showed up in cowboy gear and made her feel like she was really stepping into a Western scene. She appreciated the detailed explanations about local plants and felt that the safety checks by guides like Trev made her ride smooth and secure.

Another reviewer described their ride as “lovely and relaxing,” highlighting how well-behaved and calm the horses were, even for novices. Such feedback underscores that this tour is designed with safety, comfort, and fun in mind.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re after a short, scenic, and educational horseback ride that’s suitable for beginners and families, this tour ticks all the boxes. It offers a fantastic way to combine wildlife, geology, and history in a manageable time frame. The small group size means personalized attention, making it a good choice for nervous riders or those who prefer a more intimate experience.

Those interested in photography will find plenty of photo opportunities, especially during the canyon walk. Nature lovers and history buffs will enjoy learning about cowboy culture and the local landscape from guides who genuinely know their stuff.

The Sum Up

The Orderville: East Zion Park White Mountain Horseback Tour is a smart pick for travelers seeking an authentic, gentle introduction to Zion’s landscapes and cowboy heritage. The combination of a guided horseback ride, a short canyon hike, and expert guides makes it a well-rounded experience that offers great value at $67.

It’s especially suitable for first-time riders, families, or anyone looking for a quick, memorable outdoor adventure. The small group setting and friendly guides help create a relaxed atmosphere, while the stunning scenery guarantees you’ll leave with plenty of photos and stories to share.

While it’s not a long ride, the quality of the landscape, the educational elements, and the personable guides make this a highly rewarding activity. It’s a charming slice of Utah’s wild west—and a memorable way to experience Zion’s remarkable terrain.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 8 and above can participate, provided they meet the weight limit of less than 220 lbs.

Do I need riding experience?
No, beginners are welcome. The guides provide a brief riding lesson to ensure everyone feels comfortable.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 1 hour, including riding and the canyon walk.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at the corrals across the street from the lot at the pickleball courts, where you’ll see the horse enclosures.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothes, a hat, camera, snacks, water, a jacket, and gloves—especially important in colder months.

Does the tour operate in all weather?
It runs in good weather; tours are canceled in bad weather, so check ahead before your scheduled time.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring what you need for after the ride.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Is transportation provided?
Transportation is not included; you’ll need to drive or arrange your own way to the meeting point.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot without paying immediately, giving you flexibility in planning your trip.

In essence, this horseback tour combines gentle adventure, stunning scenery, and a touch of cowboy charm, making it a worthwhile addition to your Zion itinerary.