If you’re visiting Utah and craving a taste of the Wild West, the Orderville: East Zion Park White Mountain Horseback Tour offers a delightful mix of gentle adventure and stunning scenery. For just $67 per person, this 1-hour guided horseback ride takes you through backcountry trails ending at a secluded slot canyon with towering sandstone walls. Along the way, you’ll learn about local cowboy history, get a brief riding lesson, and enjoy some of the most captivating scenery Zion has to offer.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the well-trained horses and patient guides make it accessible even for those with little or no riding experience. Second, the short hike into the slot canyon provides a memorable close-up view of some of Utah’s most striking geological formations. On the flip side, some might find the 60-minute duration a bit short if you’re seeking a more extensive ride, but that keeps it perfect for those wanting a quick, scenic escape.
This tour is ideally suited for families with children over 8, first-time riders, or anyone wanting a relaxed, authentic Western experience. If you’re looking to add a splash of adventure without feeling overwhelmed, this is a top choice.
- Gentle Horseback Ride: Designed for beginners, with trained horses and brief instruction.
- Scenic Views: Marvel at Zion’s iconic red rocks and towering sandstone formations.
- Unique Experience: Walk into a secluded slot canyon for a close-up geological encounter.
- Expert Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides provide history, safety, and local insights.
- Affordable & Well-Reviewed: At $67, it offers great value with a high satisfaction rate (4.8/5 from 362 reviews).
- Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 6) ensure personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
Meeting and Getting Ready
Your adventure begins at the stables, where you’ll arrive about 10 minutes early. The meeting point is conveniently located at the parking lot near the pickleball courts, with clear signage guiding you to the corrals. From there, your guides—who consistently receive praise for their friendliness and expertise—will introduce themselves and help you get suited up.
Even if you’re new to riding, there’s no need to worry. The tour is specifically designed for first-timers, with a quick riding lesson provided if needed. The horses are described as well-behaved, gentle, and cared for meticulously, which helps both novices and anxious riders feel at ease. Clothing-wise, you’ll want to wear closed-toe shoes, long pants, and bring layers—especially in cooler months—plus a hat, camera, water, and snacks.
You can check availability for your dates here:The Scenic Trail Ride
Once everyone is ready, it’s time to saddle up. The ride itself lasts about 60 minutes, which many reviewers agree is the perfect length to enjoy without fatigue or boredom. Your guide will lead you along a scenic trail that winds through the quiet backcountry of East Zion, away from the crowded main park areas.
During the ride, you’ll learn about local cowboy history, the terrain, and the flora and fauna you pass. Many travelers comment on the friendly and knowledgeable guides who ensure everyone feels comfortable and informed. One reviewer fondly recalls how guides like Jacob and Carly made safety a priority while sharing interesting tidbits about the area.
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The Slot Canyon Stop
Midway through the ride, you’ll dismount at the canyon’s mouth for a short hike into this natural marvel. Several reviewers have remarked on how impressive the sandstone formations are, often several hundred feet high and carved into spectacular shapes. One traveler from the Netherlands described the canyon as “really cool” and praised the incredible views.
This short walk allows you to get close to the towering canyon walls, offering a different perspective compared to the open trail. Many reviewers highlighted that the hike is manageable even for beginners, and guides are attentive to safety and comfort.
Return and Reflection
After exploring the canyon, you’ll retrace your steps back to the horses, mount up, and ride back to the starting point. The journey back often includes more chances to chat with your guides, who share stories about Utah’s cowboy past and the area’s geology.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The package covers guides, horses, and equipment, making it a straightforward experience. Food and drinks are not provided, so plan to bring water and snacks if needed. The tour operates in the morning and afternoon, with flexible booking options like reserve now, pay later—helpful if your plans are still in flux.
The reviews are glowing about the guides’ friendliness, knowledge, and patience. Many mention guides like Tim, Jacob, Trev, and Amy, who go above and beyond to ensure everyone feels safe and has fun. Several customers expressed appreciation for the guides’ insights into the local environment and history, which added depth to what might otherwise be a simple ride.
Travelers also love the well-kept horses and the personalized attention due to small group sizes. This tour is not crowded or rushed—rather, it feels relaxed and personal, perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers.
At $67, this tour offers remarkable value, especially considering it includes a guided horseback ride, a short canyon hike, and personalized service. For those looking to experience Zion’s natural beauty in a more intimate way than the standard park visits, this is a fantastic option.
Keep in mind that the tour does not operate in bad weather, so check the forecast. Also, riders must weigh less than 220 lbs and be able to understand English. The short duration might feel too brief if you’re seeking a longer, more immersive ride, but many reviewers note that the 1-hour length is just right for a quick taste of riding and canyon exploring.
If you’re new to horseback riding or traveling with children over 8, this is an ideal way to gently introduce yourself to the experience. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy stunning scenery, wildlife, and a bit of Western history will find this tour rewarding. It’s also perfect if you want a shortcut to some of Zion’s most photogenic spots without the physical demands of longer hikes or strenuous activities.
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed with first-timers in mind. Guides provide a brief lesson, and the horses are well-trained, making it accessible and safe for beginners.
What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing if visiting outside of summer, a hat, camera, snacks, water, and gloves. Wear closed-toe shoes and long pants for comfort and safety.
How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately 1 hour, including the ride and canyon walk. It’s a manageable length, ideal for a quick adventure.
Can children participate?
Children must be at least 8 years old and weigh less than 220 lbs. Many reviews highlight that kids have a great time, especially with attentive guides.
Is transportation provided?
The meeting point is at the parking lot near the pickleball courts. No transportation is included; plan to arrive a bit early.
What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
The Orderville: East Zion Park White Mountain Horseback Tour offers a wonderful way to experience Zion’s rugged beauty without the physical toll of longer hikes. Its blend of scenic riding, geological marvels, and friendly guides makes it a highlight for many travelers. It’s particularly well-suited for those seeking a relaxed, authentic Western experience with excellent value.
Whether you’re new to riding or simply want a quick but memorable escape into Utah’s iconic landscapes, this tour delivers on both scenery and service. The consistent glowing reviews speak to the professionalism of the guides and the quality of the horses, giving us confidence that this is a safe and enjoyable adventure.
In summary, if you’re after a short, scenic, beginner-friendly horseback ride with the bonus of a beautiful slot canyon to explore, this tour is a great choice. It’s approachable, affordable, and highly rated—perfect for small groups, families, or solo travelers wanting a taste of the Wild West with minimal fuss.
You can check availability for your dates here:
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