Horseback Riding Tours Near Las Vegas

Escape the bright lights of the Strip and experience the natural beauty of Southern Nevada from the saddle. Horseback riding near Las Vegas offers a completely different side of the destination—quiet desert trails, dramatic red-rock formations, mountain views and unforgettable sunsets.

Whether you are a first-time rider, an experienced horseman or planning a memorable activity for your family, Las Vegas horseback riding tours provide an authentic Western adventure within easy reach of the city.

Discover the Wild West Beyond the Strip

The Las Vegas Valley is surrounded by rugged desert landscapes that seem made for exploring on horseback. Guided tours take riders away from the crowds and through terrain filled with sandstone cliffs, desert vegetation, mountain ridges and occasional wildlife.

Many tours are designed for beginners, with calm horses selected according to each guest’s size and riding experience. Professional guides provide basic instructions before the ride and lead the group throughout the journey.

Depending on the tour selected, your experience may include:

• Morning or afternoon trail rides
• Sunset horseback riding
• Red Rock Canyon scenery
• Mountain and desert trails
• Western barbecue dinners
• Cowboy breakfasts
• Hotel transportation
• Small-group or private riding experiences

Horseback Riding at Red Rock Canyon

Red Rock Canyon is one of the most popular locations for horseback riding near Las Vegas. Located approximately 20 to 30 minutes west of the Strip, the area is known for its towering sandstone cliffs, open desert and striking red-and-cream-colored rock formations.

A guided horseback ride provides a peaceful way to experience this remarkable landscape without hiking long distances. Riders may travel along canyon trails, elevated ridges and open desert terrain while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Red Rock Canyon’s 13-mile scenic drive, wildlife, geological formations and extensive recreational areas have made it one of Southern Nevada’s leading outdoor destinations.

Best for:

• First-time visitors to Las Vegas
• Couples looking for a memorable experience
• Families with older children
• Nature and photography enthusiasts
• Travelers wanting a break from casinos and crowds

Morning Horseback Rides

Morning rides are often the best choice during warmer months. Temperatures are generally more comfortable, the trails are quieter and the early sunlight creates beautiful views across the mountains and desert.

Some morning experiences may include a traditional Western-style breakfast before or after the ride.

A morning horseback tour also leaves the rest of your day available for the pool, sightseeing, a show or dinner on the Strip.

Sunset Horseback Rides

A sunset ride is one of the most memorable outdoor experiences available near Las Vegas. As the sun begins to fall, the desert cliffs and mountains change color, creating an impressive backdrop for the ride.

Some sunset tours combine horseback riding with a Western barbecue dinner. Depending on the operator, transportation from selected Las Vegas hotels may also be available.

One established Red Rock operator offers a sunset trail ride and Western barbecue, along with daytime canyon rides.

Sunset rides are especially popular for:

• Couples
• Anniversaries
• Birthday celebrations
• Small groups
• Travelers seeking a unique Las Vegas evening

Because space can be limited, advance reservations are strongly recommended.

Mountain and Desert Trail Rides

Not every horseback riding experience takes place inside Red Rock Canyon. Tours are also available in desert and mountain areas east of Las Vegas, including trails near the Sunrise and Frenchman mountains.

These rides may feature views of red-rock formations, volcanic terrain and native wildlife while remaining approximately 20 minutes from the Strip.

These tours can be a good alternative when Red Rock departures are unavailable or when guests want a quieter, less familiar desert setting.

Recommended Horseback Riding Experiences

Several established companies offer guided horseback riding tours near Las Vegas.

Cowboy Trail Rides

Cowboy Trail Rides is a family-owned company operating near Red Rock Canyon. Available experiences may include daytime canyon rides and sunset rides followed by a Western barbecue. The company states that its riding location is approximately 20 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip.

Wild West Horseback Adventures

Wild West Horseback Adventures is known for combining guided desert trail rides with traditional Western-style meals. Depending on the selected experience, morning, afternoon and sunset departures may be available.

Silver State Horseback Riding Tours

Silver State offers trail rides through desert terrain near the Sunrise and Frenchman mountains. Its tours may include sunset departures, barbecue options and views of red-rock formations, wildlife and volcanic terrain.

Sandy Valley Ranch Experiences

Ranch-based experiences in the Sandy Valley area offer visitors the opportunity to travel farther beyond Las Vegas and enjoy a more remote Western setting. These experiences may require a longer transfer but can provide a quieter and more traditional ranch atmosphere.

Tour schedules, prices, transportation arrangements and operating locations can change. Always confirm the current details before booking.

Are Las Vegas Horseback Riding Tours Suitable for Beginners?

Most standard trail rides are designed to accommodate guests with little or no horseback riding experience.

Before the tour begins, guides normally explain how to sit, steer and communicate with the horse. Horses are typically assigned according to the rider’s experience, height and weight.

Guests should nevertheless be comfortable mounting a horse and remaining in the saddle for the duration of the ride.

Some tours may have:

• Minimum-age requirements
• Maximum-weight limits
• Closed-toe shoe requirements
• Health or mobility restrictions
• Restrictions for pregnant guests
• Waiver requirements

Review all participation rules before making a nonrefundable reservation.

What to Wear

Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily.

Recommended items include:

• Long pants or jeans
• Closed-toe shoes
• A hat or sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• A light jacket during cooler months
• Water, when permitted by the operator

Avoid sandals, loose scarves and clothing that may catch on the saddle or surrounding vegetation.

Desert temperatures can change quickly. Mornings and evenings may feel considerably cooler than the Strip, particularly during fall and winter.

When Is the Best Time to Go?

Horseback riding is available during much of the year, but the best departure time depends on the season.

Spring

March through May generally offers comfortable temperatures and excellent desert scenery. These months can be busy, so reserve early.

Summer

Choose an early-morning departure whenever possible. Afternoon temperatures can become dangerously hot, and tour schedules may be reduced or changed for safety.

Fall

September through November is one of the best periods for horseback riding, especially during the morning or around sunset.

Winter

Winter days can be pleasant, but mornings and evenings may be cold. Dress in layers and verify the weather before leaving your hotel.

How Long Do Horseback Riding Tours Take?

The actual trail ride may last approximately one to two hours, but the complete experience can take considerably longer when hotel pickup, transportation, check-in, safety instructions and meals are included.

Allow roughly half a day for tours that include round-trip transportation from the Strip.

Do not schedule a horseback riding tour too close to a dinner reservation, show or airport departure.

Transportation from Las Vegas Hotels

Some horseback riding packages include pickup from selected Strip hotels, while others require guests to drive or arrange private transportation.

Before booking, confirm:

• Whether hotel pickup is included
• The exact pickup location
• The departure time
• The total transportation time
• Whether car seats are available or permitted
• The expected return time

Hotel transportation can be particularly valuable for visitors who do not plan to rent a car.

ReservationsVegas.com Insider Tips

Book early for weekends, holidays and sunset departures. These are usually the first tours to sell out.

Select a morning ride during the summer. The experience will generally be more comfortable for both riders and horses.

Do not underestimate the travel time. A tour advertised as a two-hour ride may require four or five hours from hotel pickup to return.

Advise the operator of any mobility concerns before booking. Mounting and dismounting can be more difficult than the trail ride itself.

Bring a light jacket for winter sunsets. Desert temperatures can drop quickly once the sun disappears.

Combine your ride with a visit to Red Rock Canyon, a Western dinner or a relaxing evening at your hotel.

Create a Complete Las Vegas Adventure

A horseback riding tour can be included as part of a customized Las Vegas itinerary featuring:

• Boutique or luxury hotel accommodations
• Red Rock Canyon sightseeing
• Dinner reservations
• Las Vegas shows
• Sports tickets
• Helicopter tours
• Desert ATV adventures
• Anniversary and celebration experiences

Let ReservationsVegas.com Help Plan Your Ride

Choosing the right horseback riding tour depends on your schedule, riding experience, transportation needs and preferred scenery.

The ReservationsVegas.com Digital VIP Concierge can help you compare available experiences and coordinate your horseback ride with your hotel, dining, entertainment and other Las Vegas activities.

Contact the ReservationsVegas.com Digital VIP Concierge to start planning your Las Vegas horseback riding adventure.

Tour availability, pricing, transportation, age limits and participation requirements are controlled by individual operators and may change without notice.