Autumn is the perfect season to experience the beauty of Yellowstone Country on horseback. With cooler temperatures, vibrant fall foliage, and vast landscapes, riding through the area’s rugged trails offers a one-of-a-kind adventure. Whether you're exploring mountain trails or sage flats, Yellowstone Country has a variety of horseback riding experiences, from laid-back dude ranches to luxurious resort outings. Here are some of the top spots to embark on a guided horseback ride this fall.
Hardscrabble Ranch: Ross Peak Views and Rustic Charm
Hardscrabble Ranch is a quintessential Montana guest ranch, with access to their expansive biking trails that are also optimal for hiking and horseback rides. Enjoy a leisurely ride with a backdrop of Ross Peak, one of the most scenic views in the Bridger Mountains. As the leaves turn to hues of gold and red, this spot becomes even more magical. Riders can saddle up for a journey through meadows, forests, and open ridgelines, where the crisp autumn air and the changing colors create an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a first-timer, Hardscrabble Ranch provides an authentic Montana cowboy experience.
Montage Big Sky: Mountain Trails and Wildflower Fields
At the luxurious Montage Big Sky, riders can immerse themselves in the Mountain West spirit, traversing mountain trails and meadows that are often blanketed with the last wildflowers of the season. The resort offers guided rides tailored to guests' skill levels, whether you're looking for a relaxed stroll or a more challenging adventure through the wilderness. Fall is especially stunning at Montage Big Sky, with sweeping views of Lone Mountain and the surrounding terrain, all framed by a palette of autumn colors.
Sage Lodge: Adventure and Relaxation Combined
Located just outside of Yellowstone National Park in Paradise Valley, Sage Lodge offers guests a chance to combine luxury with outdoor adventure. Partnering with Horsetrack Outfitters, Sage Lodge offers guided horseback rides that take you through some of Montana's most scenic landscapes. The fall season brings a special allure, with clear skies, comfortable riding temperatures, and breathtaking views of the iconic valley. After a day of riding, you can unwind in the resort’s spa or by the fire, making it the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort: Trails Through Sage Flats and Buttes
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, located just south of Yellowstone in Wyoming, is famous for its stunning vistas and wildlife encounters. Horseback riding at the resort provides riders with the chance to explore sage flats, cross streams, and ride to the top of buttes, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Tetons. In the fall, the vibrant colors of aspen trees and the sight of wildlife preparing for winter make this an unforgettable horseback riding experience. Whether you're channeling your inner cowgirl or cowboy, these rides offer a taste of the Old West.
Bill Cody Ranch: Riding in the Shadow of the Shoshone National Forest
For a more rustic experience, head east of Yellowstone to Bill Cody Ranch, where you can ride through the majestic grandeur of the Shoshone National Forest. This area, rich in history and natural beauty, offers an authentic cowboy experience, with guided rides that take you through diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to dense forests. The fall season in the Shoshone National Forest is marked by crisp mountain air, golden aspens, and abundant wildlife.
Bill Cody Ranch, along with neighboring dude ranches and guest lodges, provides riders with an intimate connection to the land and its history, making it a must-visit for those seeking an immersive horseback adventure. Here are a few notable options for unique horseback riding experiences throughout East Yellowstone:
- UXU Ranch: For an authentic Old West experience, UXU Ranch offers guided horseback rides through the stunning landscapes of East Yellowstone. The ranch is surrounded by pristine wilderness, offering panoramic views of the Shoshone River and Absaroka Mountains. In the fall, riders can explore trails blanketed with golden aspens and vibrant wildlife, making UXU Ranch an unforgettable autumn destination.
- Shoshone Lodge & Guest Ranch: Situated near the East Entrance of Yellowstone, Shoshone Lodge offers rides through the pristine wilderness of the Shoshone National Forest. With breathtaking views of mountain peaks and valleys, the fall season here is ideal for observing elk and deer in their pre-winter preparations. However, similar to its neighbors along the North Fork Highway, the Shoshone Lodge & Guest Ranch activities are only available to guests—so consider booking your stay for the next season and experience all that Yellowstone has to offer.
Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Ride in Yellowstone Country
Fall in Yellowstone Country brings cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and unparalleled natural beauty. As the leaves change and the wildlife becomes more active, horseback riding during this time of year offers a peaceful and picturesque way to experience the region. Whether you're exploring the Bridger Mountains, the Paradise Valley, or the Shoshone National Forest, you'll find yourself surrounded by the striking colors and tranquility that only autumn can offer.
From laid-back ranch experiences to luxurious resort adventures, horseback riding in Yellowstone Country is a fall activity that shouldn’t be missed. So, dust off your boots, saddle up, and get ready to explore the wild beauty of the Mountain West this autumn.
