Sunset Horseback Ride With BBQ Dinner in Cool Mountain Las Vegas

A horseback adventure with a scenic twist and a tasty reward

Imagine riding a gentle horse through the peaceful mountains near Las Vegas, with the sun setting behind the peaks and the air cooling down after a warm day. That’s exactly what you get with the Sunset Horseback Ride with BBQ Dinner in Cool Mountain. For $130 per person, you’ll spend about an hour and a half immersed in Nevada’s natural beauty, topped off with a delicious BBQ dinner.

What we love about this experience is how relaxed and scenic it is—no heavy riding skills required—and how knowledgeable guides make the journey informative and enjoyable. The backdrop of Rainbow Gardens offers a stunning view of layered geologic formations, reminiscent of the Grand Canyon, which adds a touch of geological wonder to your ride. Plus, the opportunity to have photos snapped during the ride means you can capture your adventure with friends or family.

One possible drawback is that the meeting point location has been a little confusing for some travelers, as one review notes arriving early and finding the GPS landing in the middle of the road. So, planning your pickup or arrival time carefully is worth keeping in mind. This tour suits those looking for a relaxed outdoor experience with scenic vistas, good company, and a hearty meal afterward—ideal for outdoor lovers, beginner riders, or those wanting a peaceful escape from the buzz of Vegas.

Key Points

• Scenic mountain ride with views of geologic layers similar to the Grand Canyon.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of the landscape and history.
• Relaxed riding experience suitable for most travelers, with helmets and all tack provided.
• Beautiful sunset backdrop creates a memorable atmosphere.
• Includes a hearty BBQ dinner, with vegetarian options available upon request.
• Potential logistical issue with the meeting point, so plan accordingly.

Exploring the experience in detail

The location and setting

From the start, you’ll be greeted by friendly guides at Smith’s Marketplace in Skye Canyon. The ride takes place in the Rainbow Gardens area, famed for its layered rock formations and mountain scenery. The landscape is dotted with green plants and trees, giving it a refreshing mountain atmosphere—perfect for a sunset ride.

The trail itself is designed to be calm and accessible, making it a good choice whether you’re an experienced rider or a complete beginner. The horses are described as highly trained and calm, which helps create a comfortable environment for all levels. Helmets and mounting blocks are provided, emphasizing safety and ease of access.

The ride: what it’s like

Once mounted, your guide—whose name might be shared during the tour—will lead you through the trail, sharing insights about the geology, history, and natural features of the area. The scenic backdrop of mountains and canyon landscape makes every moment picture-worthy. The sunset view adds a magical glow to the scenery, making the entire experience feel like a special occasion.

Travelers have appreciated the “action shots” captured during the ride, which are great for sharing your adventure later. The ride duration is roughly 1.5 hours, which feels just right—enough time to enjoy the surroundings without getting exhausted.

The meal: BBQ dinner with a view

After the ride, everyone gathers to enjoy a barbecue rib dinner with fixings and pie for dessert. Vegetarian options can be requested beforehand, which is thoughtful for those not eating ribs. The meal is served on-site, providing a satisfying conclusion to your outdoor adventure. The dinner adds excellent value, especially considering it includes beverages and hearty comfort food.

The logistics: what you need to know

The tour begins at 6:30 pm, making it a perfect late afternoon activity that culminates in sunset. Transportation is straightforward—both Uber and Lyft service the area—though the meeting point has had some issues, as one reviewer noted arriving early and finding the GPS location a bit off. Therefore, planning your arrival or pickup carefully is recommended.

The group size is limited to 20 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and manageable. The weight limit of 240 lbs is strictly enforced, requiring prior contact if you think you’ll need a larger horse.

Authentic reviews and insights

One traveler, Steven, shared a less positive experience, mentioning confusion over the meeting point: “The address and GPS coordinates for the start point land you in the middle of the road in the national park with nothing around.” This highlights the importance of confirming your meeting logistics or arriving early.

On the other hand, many appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. They noted how the calm horses and relaxing atmosphere made for an enjoyable ride, even for beginners. The ** sunset backdrop** truly adds a memorable touch.

Is this tour worth it?

Considering the price of $130, you’re paying for a unique blend of scenic beauty, gentle horseback riding, and a hearty dinner. The experience’s value largely depends on how much you enjoy outdoor activities and scenic vistas. For those who love nature and want a peaceful outing away from the city’s hustle, this is a solid choice.

The photo opportunities during the ride are a bonus, especially if you want to share your adventure with friends or keep memories alive. The informative guides make the experience educational without feeling rushed—perfect for those curious about the landscape.

Who should consider this experience?

This horseback riding tour is best suited for beginners or casual riders who want to enjoy Nevada’s mountain scenery without the need for advanced riding skills. It’s also ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a relaxing outdoor activity with a dinner component. If you’re the type who appreciates beautiful sunsets and scenic vistas, you’ll find this tour satisfying.

However, if you’re very particular about logistics or have mobility concerns, the confusing meeting point might be a hiccup. Also, those looking for a more intense riding experience or a tour with a longer duration might want to explore other options.

Final thoughts

For an affordable price, this sunset horseback ride delivers a peaceful journey through Nevada’s striking mountain landscapes, complete with informative guides and a delicious BBQ. Its highlight is undoubtedly the stunning sunset views that turn an ordinary evening into a memorable event. This experience offers a wonderful way to connect with nature, especially if you’re eager for a relaxed ride rather than a strenuous adventure.

The small group size and friendly atmosphere make it feel personalized, while the scenic backdrop provides plenty of photo-worthy moments. The inclusion of a tasty meal rounds out a well-balanced outdoor experience that can appeal to a broad range of travelers.

If you’re seeking an authentic, scenic, and laid-back outdoor activity near Las Vegas, this horseback ride could be just what you need to unwind and soak in some natural beauty.

FAQ: Your questions answered

How long is the horseback ride?
The ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the horses are described as calm and highly trained, and helmets and mounting blocks are provided, making it approachable for all skill levels.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for mountain weather is recommended. The area can be cooler in the evening, so bring layers if needed.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, vegetarian options can be requested in advance by contacting the tour provider.

What about transportation?
Both Uber and Lyft service the meeting point. However, be aware that the location might be tricky to find, so plan your arrival carefully.

Can I take photos during the ride?
Absolutely. Guides can snap action shots of you and your group, which are great souvenirs.

What is the maximum weight allowed?
The weight limit is 240 lbs. If you weigh more, contact the provider beforehand to check for larger horses.

Is this a private tour?
No, it’s a group experience with a maximum of 20 travelers, providing a friendly and manageable atmosphere.

What is the best time of day to do this?
The tour starts at 6:30 pm, perfect for catching the sunset while riding through mountain scenery.

What if the weather is bad?
If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, as the experience requires good weather.

To sum it up, the Sunset Horseback Ride with BBQ Dinner offers a delightful combination of scenic vistas, gentle riding, and tasty food. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a peaceful outdoor experience that’s accessible, social, and memorable. Whether you’re a novice rider or simply looking to relax in Nevada’s mountain air, this tour provides a genuine taste of the landscape with a satisfying meal to top it off.