Places in Scottsdale, AZ that offer trail rides to the public?

[Lunatuna]

My horse loving friend is dying to go trail riding when she goes to Scottsdale, AZ, next week. I think it may be her and a couple of her family members. Shes not too experienced with riding but would love to go on a scenic trail ride (preferably English tack but westerns fine, too).

Obviously, it would need to be guided but I know she doesn’t want to just plod along at a walk the whole time. Even though shes a beginner, I think she would be able to handle trotting (and maybe a slow canter/lope) on a very quiet horse.

If anyone knows of any places, let me know and I will pass along the information. Thanks!

[JumpQH]

What side of Scottsdale? North or south?

[Lunatuna]

I don’t think it matters. They are flying from Indiana and will be coming up from Tombstone, as that is where they plan to visit, first. However, since they are already coming all that way, they don’t mind driving anywhere in Scottsdale. They are there to see the beauty of AZ!

[JumpQH]

[QUOTE=Lunatuna;8063161]
I don’t think it matters. They are flying from Indiana and will be coming up from Tombstone, as that is where they plan to visit, first. However, since they are already coming all that way, they don’t mind driving anywhere in Scottsdale. They are there to see the beauty of AZ! :-)[/QUOTE]

DISCLAIMER - I have never used any of these companies.

I know of a place in Cave Creek, which is near Scottsdale.

http://www.cavecreektrailrides.com/

This one is also in Cave Creek, but has access to amazing trails and views that I’ve hiked.

http://www.horsebackarizona.com/

I know of this one in Scottsdale.

http://www.macdonaldsranch.com/

I have read a thread about great experiences with an outfit by one of the lakes outside of Phoenix, but can’t remember which one. I will try to find it.

Just found it:

http://www.saguarolakeranchstables.com/

[Lunatuna]

Thank, you!! I will pass these along to my friend! I appreciate it!

[SarahandSam]

I did the one through Spur Cross Ranch (horsebackarizona link) a few years ago. It was a great time. It was nose-to-tail walking, but on the other hand, the terrain is not conducive to anything faster than a walk–there were some very narrow trail areas, very rocky, very rough at times. So even at a walk it was still really interesting. I did the four-hour petroglyph ride; you ride out to a petroglyph site, dismount and tie up the horses while you eat and walk around a bit, then ride back. Horses were in good shape. Tell her to wear lots of sunscreen.

[GallopHer]

I HIGHLY recommend Cave Creek Trail Rides. We did one of the sunset rides a couple of years ago and loved it. The horses were good, the guides were interesting and the views were spectacular. Have fun!!