Cowpoke Ride: Adventurous horseback tour just 9 MILES from Sedona

If you’re visiting Sedona and craving a taste of the Old West without strapping on cowboy boots for days, the Cowpoke Ride offers a perfect afternoon escape. This horseback tour, just 9 miles from Sedona, takes you through scenic canyon terrain overlooking vineyards and the Verde Valley, all guided by friendly, knowledgeable wranglers. Priced at $139 per person for about 90 minutes of riding, it’s a well-priced way to enjoy the Arizona landscape with minimal fuss.

What we love about this experience is how accessible it is — no riding experience required — and how safe and relaxed the environment feels. The horses are described as gentle and well-trained, making it a superb choice for beginners, families, or anyone wanting a peaceful taste of horseback riding. The guides, like Newt and Matt, come across as genuinely caring, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and well-cared-for.

A possible consideration is that this tour is non-refundable, so if weather turns bad or plans change last minute, you’ll need to be flexible. Also, while the scenery is spectacular, this isn’t a rugged, extreme adventure — it’s a smooth, scenic ride designed for enjoyment and safety, so those seeking a high-adrenaline experience might find it a bit tame.

This tour suits families with children aged 7 and up, first-time riders, and anyone wanting a laid-back, scenic ride in a beautiful setting. It’s especially popular with those who appreciate friendly guides and well-behaved horses. If you’re looking for a straightforward, authentic horseback experience that blends nature with comfort, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Accessible for all levels: No previous riding experience needed.
• Beautiful scenery: Canyon terrain with views of vineyards and Verde Valley.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for kids 7 years and older.
• Expert guides: Friendly, safety-conscious wranglers like Newt and Matt.
• Well-trained horses: Calm, gentle horses that are easy to ride.
• Limited but intimate group size: Max 10 riders, creating a personalized experience.

A Closer Look at the Cowpoke Ride Experience

When we think about horseback riding near Sedona, it’s often the landscapes that come to mind. The Cowpoke Ride does not disappoint, offering a scenic trail that winds through rolling hills and rugged canyon terrain. The ride is described as “Canyon Terrain,” which means you’ll be traversing areas with gentle hills and rocky patches — enough variety to keep things interesting without feeling intimidating.

The Itinerary and Route

The ride kicks off at the ranch located at 2650 Dancing Apache Rd, Cornville. The guides depart at seasonally adjusted times — either 10:00 AM from October to April or 9:00 AM from May to September — making it a morning activity that helps you beat the midday heat and crowds. The group size is small, capped at 10, which contributes to a more relaxed, personalized tour.

Once mounted — with the aid of a mounting doc — your guide will lead you through the terrain, sharing insights about the landscape and local wildlife. The trail offers a mix of gentle hills and open vistas, providing ample opportunities for photos and soaking in the scenery. Several reviews mention how the guides are friendly, informative, and attentive, ensuring even nervous riders feel at ease.

The Horses and the Guides

One of the standout features of this tour is the horses themselves. Many reviews highlight how calm and well-behaved the horses are, which is key for beginners. Riders like Melanie and Elizabeth appreciated Navajo and other horses for their patience and ease. The staff’s professional yet caring approach shines through, with guides like Anna, Matt, and David making safety a top priority and adjusting the ride’s pace to match the group’s comfort level.

Scenic Highlights

Expect views of neighboring vineyards and the Verde Valley — a surprising pairing of wine country and rugged canyon landscapes. Several reviews mention how beautiful the scenery is and how the weather often cooperates to make for a memorable experience. The scenery isn’t just pretty; it’s evocative of the American West, with open skies and rocky outcroppings that make for stunning photos.

The Experience for Families and Beginners

The tour’s minimum age of 7 and the no experience needed policy makes it ideal for families or first-time riders. Kids as young as seven can enjoy the ride, and the gentle horses and slow pace mean everyone can participate without feeling overwhelmed. Many reviews recount how guides like Matt and Sarah made kids feel comfortable, even those on their first-ever horseback ride.

What to Expect in Terms Duration and Price

At $139 per person, the price is reasonable considering the personalized experience, scenic vistas, and the fact that it’s a small group activity. The 1.5-hour duration strikes a good balance — enough time for a leisurely ride without it feeling dragged out or tiring.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

For travelers wanting an authentic, scenic horseback ride close to Sedona, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for those new to riding, families looking for a memorable outdoor activity, or anyone wanting to enjoy Arizona’s landscape without strenuous hiking or extreme adventure. The friendly guides and well-trained horses ensure safety and comfort, while the stunning canyon views keep the experience memorable.

The small group size and personalized attention make it a more intimate experience, and the scenic vista of vineyards and Verde Valley adds a unique touch. Plus, with plenty of positive reviews praising the guides’ friendliness and the horses’ calm nature, you can trust this is a well-organized, enjoyable outing.

Final Thoughts: Is the Cowpoke Ride Right for You?

If you’re after a relaxing horseback ride that combines scenic beauty with safety and ease, this tour is a wonderful choice. It’s especially suited for families, beginners, and those seeking a peaceful outdoor experience. The professional guides and gentle horses provide peace of mind, while the spectacular views ensure you’ll remember this adventure long after you’ve returned home.

While it might not satisfy adrenaline junkies craving a rugged or high-intensity ride, it excels as a gateway experience into horseback riding in a stunning setting. The value for money is high, given the personalized approach, scenic landscape, and positive reviews highlighting how much fun everyone had.

In short, if you want to enjoy Arizona’s natural beauty on horseback without fuss or fussiness, the Cowpoke Ride offers a genuine taste of the Wild West — relaxed, scenic, and fun for all ages.

FAQs: Your Questions About the Cowpoke Ride Answered

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. No riding experience is required, and the horses are described as gentle and easy to handle. The guides are experienced in making first-timers comfortable.

Can children participate?
Yes, the minimum age is 7 years old, making it perfect for families with kids. Many reviews mention how guides help children feel safe and included.

What should I wear?
While not explicitly stated, dressing in comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity and closed-toe shoes is recommended. Helmets are provided, and it’s wise to wear sun protection and bring water.

How long is the ride?
The ride lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including mounting and dismounting. This duration is ideal for a scenic outing without fatigue.

Is this a private tour?
Most bookings are for small groups (up to 10). For larger groups or private options, contacting the operator directly is advised.

What is the cancellation policy?
The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed. If weather causes cancellation, you’ll be offered a different date or a refund.

Are there weight restrictions?
There are no weight restrictions, but riders must be able to keep their balance on the horse.

In the end, the Cowpoke Ride offers a genuine, accessible taste of Arizona’s rugged beauty — perfect for first-timers, families, and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful ride in stunning surroundings.