Jackson Hole: Bridger-Teton National Forest Horseback Ride

If you’re dreaming of stepping into a true cowboy adventure in Jackson Hole, this horseback ride through Bridger-Teton National Forest might just be the highlight of your trip. While I haven’t personally saddled up, this experience has garnered glowing reviews and offers a genuine taste of the Wild West, with stunning scenery and expert guides leading the way.

We especially appreciate how the tour blends scenic beauty with personalized attention — whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete novice. The opportunity to learn some basic riding skills, combined with the chance to spot wildlife and enjoy panoramic mountain views, makes it a well-rounded outdoor experience.

One potential consideration is the group’s size and the time it takes to match riders with horses. The process can be lengthy, so patience is key. Also, this ride isn’t suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or those over 243 pounds, so it’s best suited for active travelers prepared for some outdoor activity.

This horseback adventure is perfect for those craving an authentic Wyoming experience, wildlife lovers, or anyone eager to explore the Tetons from a different perspective. If you want to combine natural beauty, a touch of cowboy spirit, and expert guidance, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable outing.

Key Points

• Scenic Trails: Ride through lush forests, meadows, and along peaceful rivers with spectacular views of the Grand Tetons.
• Flexible Options: Choose between a 90-minute or half-day ride, based on your schedule and stamina.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable wranglers provide safety instructions and share local insights about the landscape and wildlife.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for ages 8 and up, with horses matched to your experience and size for a safe ride.
• Wildlife Sightings: Keep an eye out for elk, moose, and bears in their natural habitat.
• Great Value: The price of $250 per person includes guided riding, saddle bags, and snacks, offering a comprehensive outdoor experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Jackson Hole Horseback Ride

The Starting Point: Heart Six Ranch

Your adventure begins at the historic Heart Six Ranch, one of the oldest dude ranches in the country. The setting itself is part of the charm — a rustic, picturesque ranch surrounded by Wyoming’s rugged beauty. This is where you’ll meet your wrangler, get fitted with your riding gear, and receive a safety briefing. This initial preparation is crucial, especially if you’re new to riding, but it also sets a friendly, welcoming tone for the day.

The Matching Process: Horses and Riders

One of the most appreciated aspects of this tour is how carefully the staff pairs riders with suitable horses. You might find that the process takes some time—up to around 30 minutes, sometimes more—because safety and comfort are prioritized. As one reviewer put it, “The loading process usually takes around 30 minutes, but may take over an hour,” so patience is a virtue here.

For those concerned about riding skills, rest assured: the guides are skilled at matching horses to experience level. They teach the basics of mounting, steering, and stopping, ensuring even first-timers feel confident before heading out. Several reviews highlight how helpful and friendly the guides are, with one stating, “The guides made her feel extremely comfortable and talked to her during most of the ride to keep her nerves at bay.”

The Scenic Trails: What You’ll Experience

Once on the trail, the real magic begins. Riding through aspen groves, mountain meadows, and pine forests, you’ll traverse winding forest trails that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a western movie. The scenery is nothing short of breathtaking, with panoramic views of the Grand Tetons looming in the background. Many reviews rave about the “beautiful scenery” and “spectacular views,” and you’ll likely agree when you’re gazing at the mountains from high ground or along the riverbanks.

The ride takes you down into Buffalo Valley, following a tranquil river — a gentle, flowing journey that highlights Wyoming’s peaceful wilderness. Some lucky riders have spotted native wildlife such as elk, moose, and even bears during their rides, making each trip a potentially wildlife-packed adventure.

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The Ride Duration and Its Value

You can choose between a 90-minute ride or a half-day tour, with some opting for the longer experience to see more varied landscapes. The four-hour option, as some reviews mention, provides “an incredible ride into the hills,” with the opportunity for a more in-depth exploration of the terrain and scenery. Keep in mind, the longer rides also include extra time for safety briefings, horse matching, and possibly more wildlife sightings.

The tour duration isn’t just about the scenic adventure; it’s also about quality time. Riders have noted that guides are attentive, making sure everyone gets plenty of personal attention and photo opportunities. One reviewer appreciated the “great guide and horses,” emphasizing the value of the experience for the cost.

Wildlife and Nature: What You Might See

While wildlife spotting isn’t guaranteed, many guests have been fortunate to see moose, elk, mule deer, and even twins of moose. Our reviews mention that “you will be very happy with this tour” if seeing animals is a priority. The guides are knowledgeable about where wildlife might appear, but ultimately, nature decides.

Safety and Comfort

Safety is a priority. Riders are carefully matched with appropriate horses to ensure a comfortable and secure experience. Children under 8, pregnant women, and those over 243 pounds are not eligible, which helps prevent accidents. The tour provides closed-toe shoes, and instructions cover how to handle the horses, making it accessible for beginners but also enjoyable for experienced riders.

Some reviews have noted minor delays during check-in and horse matching, but overall, most find the process worth the wait. One guest shared that their guide “made the best out of some pretty bad weather,” demonstrating the flexible, accommodating nature of the staff.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Friendly

Guests consistently praise the guides for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make everyone feel at ease. Whether explaining how to steer your horse or sharing stories about the area, guides like Ava, Marley, and Cameron enhance the experience with their enthusiasm and professionalism.

The Cost: Is It Worth It?

At $250 per person, the price includes a guided horseback ride, saddle bags for snacks, and access to scenic trails. Considering the value — scenic views, wildlife sightings, expert guidance, and a memorable Wyoming experience — many guests feel this is a worthwhile expense. Especially since some reviews mention how the experience became a family favorite or a highlight of their trip.

For those considering the longer ride, the four-hour option offers even more scenery and adventure, often described as “well worth it.” Plus, the inclusion of snacks and the chance to learn basic riding techniques adds to the overall value.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience Wyoming’s outdoors in a relaxed, guided setting. It’s perfect for families with children over 8, couples, or solo travelers eager for a scenic ride. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, this ride offers plenty of opportunities for animal sightings.

It also suits those who prefer a more laid-back approach — you’ll enjoy the scenery and wildlife at a comfortable pace, with the option to extend your ride if you’re feeling energetic. However, if you’re after adrenaline or fast-paced riding, this tour’s gentle pace and focus on scenery might not be your best fit.

The Sum Up

This horseback ride through Bridger-Teton National Forest offers a well-balanced mix of nature, wildlife, and Wyoming cowboy culture. The scenery is consistently praised as stunning, and the guides are recognized for their friendly, knowledgeable approach. At around $250, the experience delivers good value, especially considering the inclusion of saddle bags, snacks, and personalized attention.

It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting an authentic outdoor adventure that’s accessible to beginners but still engaging enough for seasoned riders. The focus on safety, wildlife, and scenic beauty makes it a memorable outing in Jackson Hole — one that leaves many guests with a newfound appreciation for the Wild West.

Whether you’re in it for the panoramic mountain views, the chance to spot wildlife, or the pure fun of riding a horse through Wyoming’s wilderness, this tour is likely to satisfy and even surpass expectations.

FAQ

How long is the horseback ride?
You can choose between a 90-minute ride or a half-day adventure, with some options up to four hours for a more extensive experience.

Where does the tour start?
The ride begins at the Heart Six Ranch, a historic ranch with stunning surroundings.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children must be at least 8 years old to participate.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes (closed-toe required), weather-appropriate clothing, hat, sunscreen, and water are recommended. Clothes that can get dirty are a good idea.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides teach the basics of riding, and horses are matched to your experience level, making it accessible for novices.

Can I see wildlife during the ride?
While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, many guests report seeing elk, moose, and deer.

What is the maximum weight allowed?
Participants should weigh no more than 243 pounds for safety reasons.

Are snacks included?
Yes, snacks and saddle bags are included with the ride.

Is transportation provided?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included; you will need to meet at the ranch.

What if the weather turns bad?
Guides are flexible; during bad weather, rides may be shortened or rescheduled. Guides are known for making the best of challenging conditions.

This horseback tour offers a genuine slice of Wyoming’s wilderness, perfect for those eager to saddle up and experience the breathtaking scenery of the Tetons. It’s a memorable, well-regarded outing that combines natural beauty, wildlife, and a touch of cowboy spirit.

You can check availability for your dates here: