Kanab: Cave Lakes Canyon Horseback Riding Experience

Experience the Beauty of Utah’s Cave Lakes Canyon on Horseback

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the stunning landscapes between Zion National Park and The Grand Canyon, the Kanab Cave Lakes Canyon Horseback Riding Experience offers a wonderful blend of scenery, serenity, and authentic adventure. For $95 per person, you get a 1.5-hour guided ride through a 2.5-mile trail that winds through lush pastures, past hidden lakes, and along towering red sandstone walls that rise some 100 feet high. Led by knowledgeable guides, this ride is perfect for those who want a gentle, scenic outing that’s accessible to most — I’d say particularly suited for anyone who appreciates nature’s quieter moments.

Two features that stand out are the beautiful scenery—particularly the striking red canyon walls and peaceful meadows—and the friendly, well-cared-for horses that make the experience smooth and enjoyable for riders of all levels. It’s clear the guides love sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm, which adds a layer of authenticity that you won’t get from a more commercialized experience. One small caveat: since the tour lasts just an hour and a half, it’s more of a gentle ride than a rugged adventure, so if you’re seeking a full-day trek or more adrenaline, this might not be your best fit.

This tour suits travelers who want a relaxing, scenic outing with expert guides in a small-group setting. It’s particularly appealing to those who value quality horses, beautiful vistas, and expert storytelling, making it an ideal addition for anyone exploring the Kanab area or Zion.

Key Points

Beautiful scenery — Ride through towering red sandstone walls and lush meadows.
Small group size — Limited to 10 participants for personalized attention.
Expert guides — Knowledgeable guides like RaeChele and Jessica enhance the experience.
Well-cared-for horses — Gentle horses make for a smooth, enjoyable ride.
Flexible timing — Usually available in the morning, afternoon, and evening.
Good value — At $95 for 1.5 hours, it offers a memorable experience without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Cave Lakes Canyon Horseback Ride

When we first arrived at the Cave Lakes Canyon Ranch, the friendly staff immediately put us at ease, setting the tone for a relaxed and well-organized outing. This guided tour takes you along a trail that stretches about 2.5 miles, meandering through a landscape that feels both remote and accessible. The trail ascends gradually to a low plateau that sits between Zion and The Grand Canyon, offering a vantage point for some truly breathtaking views.

What makes this ride special is the way it combines serenity with visual drama. As we rode, the towering red sandstone cliffs surrounding us created a corridor of natural beauty. The guides draw attention to these geological formations, sharing insights that enrich your appreciation of the landscape. According to reviews, guides like Jessica and RaeChele excel at sharing stories and facts about the area — not only making the ride informative but also fun and engaging.

The ride also features visits to hidden lakes and lush meadows, adding variety to the terrain and making the journey more dynamic than just riding along a flat trail. These tranquil spots are perfect for soaking in the scenery, taking photos, or just enjoying the sounds of nature without the noise of modern life. One reviewer highlighted that Jessica even let them feed the horses a treat at the end, a thoughtful touch that elevated the whole experience.

The horses themselves deserve praise. The horses are described as well-mannered, gentle, and clearly cared for, which makes this experience accessible for most riders — even beginners. We loved the way our guide personalized the experience, adjusting the ride’s pace and sharing stories that kept us engaged. It’s this personal touch that helps transform a simple trail ride into a memorable adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $95, you get a guided ride with horses and a professional guide. This means no hassle about horse care or navigation — just focus on the scenery and your ride. Food and beverages aren’t included, so if you’re hungry afterward, plan to bring a snack or plan to stop somewhere nearby after your ride.

The Experience’s Flow and Highlights

The ride begins at the Cave Lakes Canyon Ranch — a convenient starting point close to Kanab. You’ll meet your guide, who will introduce you to the horses and provide a brief safety overview. From there, the journey unfolds along the trail, which is suitable for most ages over 8, with the exception of those over 220 pounds (who are not eligible to participate).

During the ride, you’ll pass through lush pastures and spot hidden lakes, all framed by dramatic canyon walls. According to reviews, guides often share captivating stories about the area — some mention the area’s history, others focus on geological features. The ride is paced to be relaxing, allowing plenty of time to take photos or simply enjoy the vistas.

The highlight for many visitors is reaching the low plateau, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding terrain. Some reviews praise the informative commentary from guides like Kevin, who shared details about the area’s geology and local flora and fauna — making the ride as educational as it is scenic.

And if you’re lucky, you’ll get to see some of the wildlife that calls the canyon home — birds, maybe a curious deer, or other local creatures. It’s not a zoo, but that’s part of what makes it special.

Who Will Love This Ride?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a gentle, scenic ride without the need for prior riding experience. Families with children over 8, couples, and solo travelers alike have raved about the friendly guides and picturesque surroundings. It’s also a great choice if you’re visiting Zion, Bryce Canyon, or Kanab and want a peaceful, authentic outdoor experience without the strenuous effort of longer hikes or off-road adventures.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, well-organized activity that captures the essence of Utah’s natural beauty, this horseback ride should be on your list. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and well-cared-for horses, and who are happy to spend a short time in the saddle with spectacular scenery as their reward.

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A Thorough Breakdown of the Itinerary

The tour begins at the Cave Lakes Canyon Ranch, where your guide will introduce you to your horse and give a brief safety overview. You’ll then mount up and start your ride, initially riding through flat pastures that are perfect for beginners or those easing into the experience.

Soon, the trail begins to wind upward, offering gradual elevation gain as you ascend toward the low plateau. Along the way, guides point out interesting features like hidden lakes and flora unique to the area. Traveling through the canyon, you’ll pass by towering red walls—some as tall as 100 feet—that create a stunning natural corridor.

The trail then opens onto the plateau, which provides a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, including distant vistas of Zion and The Grand Canyon if weather permits. During the ride, guides share stories and insights — these aren’t just riding instructions but an engaging narrative that adds context to what you’re seeing.

The ride concludes back at the ranch, where guides often invite participants to feed the horses a treat, creating a personal connection that many reviews highlight as a memorable touch. The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, offering a perfect chunk of time to enjoy without feeling overly rushed or fatigued.

Authentic Reviews and What They Say

Multiple reviewers praised the knowledgeable guides, describing Jessi and RaeChele as charming, attentive, and engaging. One said, “Jessica shared a lot of good information with us, and even let us feed the horses a treat at the end — that was really special.” Others appreciated the superior care of the horses, with comments like, “The horses were great and well taken care of,” and “The horses were nice to handle.”

Viewers also loved the scenery, with one stating, “The canyon was spectacular this morning,” and another noting, “The scenery was amazing.” Several reviews mention how the relaxing pace and friendly atmosphere made it a highlight of their Utah trip. A guest from New Zealand summed it up: “Beautiful horses, the ride was relaxing, and the guide took time to answer questions. I would highly recommend.”

A recurring theme among reviews: this is a family-friendly outing that offers both scenery and education. Many guests emphasize that the experience is well-organized and the guides go above and beyond to make it memorable.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The tour is available in the morning, afternoon, and evening, giving flexibility to fit into your itinerary. It lasts 1.5 hours, making it a manageable addition to a busy day of sightseeing. The small-group setting—limited to ten people—ensures a personalized experience and plenty of opportunity for questions and photo stops.

Remember to wear comfortable shoes and long pants, as the terrain can be uneven. If you weigh over 220 lbs (100 kg), you won’t be able to participate, so plan accordingly. The activity is conducted in English, with a live guide providing commentary throughout.

Booking is flexible, with options to reserve now and pay later, and full refunds available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. This flexibility helps when travel plans change unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts: Why This Ride Is Worth It

If you’re someone who finds joy in quiet outdoor beauty and prefers a relaxed pace, this horseback riding experience offers a perfect way to connect with nature without strenuous effort. The expert guidance, combined with gentle horses and breathtaking scenery, makes for a memorable outing you’ll cherish long after the ride ends.

For travelers exploring Zion, Bryce Canyon, or Kanab, this is an excellent add-on—an authentic experience that captures the spirit of Utah’s landscapes. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small groups and personalized attention, as well as anyone eager to learn about the area’s geology and natural features from friendly, knowledgeable guides.

In short, whether you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned equestrian, this tour offers a relaxing, scenic escape in one of Utah’s most picturesque settings. Pack your sense of adventure, a camera, and comfortable shoes — this ride will give you a glimpse into the peaceful side of Utah’s grand wilderness.

FAQ

How long is the horseback riding experience?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity whether you’re fitting it into a day of sightseeing or want a relaxing outdoor experience.

What is included in the tour price?
Your fee of $95 covers the guided horseback ride and the horses themselves. Guides lead the group, sharing insights along the way. Food and drinks are not included.

Can beginners participate?
Yes, the experience is suitable for most riders, including those with little or no riding experience. The horses are described as gentle and well-cared-for. However, children must be at least 8 years old.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, people over 220 lbs (100 kg) cannot participate in this tour.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and long pants are recommended to protect your legs and ensure comfort during the ride.

What is the group size?
Tours are limited to 10 participants, providing a more personal and relaxed experience.

When is the tour available?
Typically in the morning, afternoon, and evening — giving you flexibility to suit your schedule.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Reserving now and paying later allows you to keep your plans flexible.

To sum it up, the Cave Lakes Canyon Horseback Riding Experience near Kanab is a fantastic choice for travelers wanting a gentle, scenic adventure that combines stunning landscapes with knowledgeable guides and well-cared-for horses. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to enjoy Utah’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace. The small-group setting ensures you won’t feel rushed, and the breathtaking views make every moment worth it. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or an authentic outdoor activity, this ride offers a memorable way to experience the grandeur of Utah’s canyon country.

You can check availability for your dates here: