Ride
Greenhorn Ranch is a working dude ranch in California’s Lost Sierra. Horseback riding takes center stage on the ranch. Our goal is to get you in the saddle safely. With confidence and care, our wranglers are here to show you everything you need to know so you can experience cowboy culture first-hand and become comfortable riding a horse. Never ridden a horse? We will teach you. An experienced rider? Enjoy a breathtaking ride over mountains, through streams on thousands of miles of trail.
Our all-inclusive stays include two daily trail rides which are approximately 90 minutes each. Kids ages six and over can participate in the daily trail rides. Those younger than six can still experience ranch life first-hand inside our arena with our experienced wranglers and ranch-hands. We have more than 60 experienced horses who live to work, and they are ready for their next Greenhorn to get in the saddle. We also offer daily lessons and ride assessments.
Arena Lesson
We offer basic horsemanship lessons daily, to assist you in learning how to avoid common position flaws and be safely balanced in the saddle. This will help you and your horse feel better during and after your rides. If advancing your riding ability is a goal while staying with us, we want to help you pursue this goal.
On the Trail
While you may love to relax and take in the scenery as you ride, it’s important to actively ride and act as your horse’s leader. As “the captain,” you’re in charge of where your horse goes and where he looks. A proper riding position will enable you to cue him effectively and let him know that you’re not just along for a ride.
Riding Assessment
Greenhorn Ranch requires riding assessment for riders desiring to participate on rides that include loping, or cantering. In order to maintain this offering, we must maintain a high level of safety. Our primary goal is to ensure the safety of riders and horses. This assessment is offered daily and considers the following:
- Rider must be able to ride at a controlled lope one horse length behind the horse in front of it.
- Rider must be able to maintain proper riding position for a western saddle, including reins, hands, seat, and feet.
- Rider’s free hand must not hold on to any part of the saddle.
- Rider must be able to follow instruction and cue horse effectively.
Ride Schedule
Our riding schedules change periodically. To view the latest schedule, click on the images to expand.
