Horseback riding ranches offer several activities from day excursions to lessons and camps for riders looking to improve their riding skills. The cost of horseback excursions varies depending on the type of riding you plan to do. You can find several riding spots in Alaska. Some extra gear is required for horseback riding to ensure your safety while riding.
Types
Horseback ranches usually offer day excursions or overnight packing trips on designated riding trails. Some ranches offer lessons in different types of horseback riding. You can go on a guided or unguided tour of the Alaskan trails for the day at ranches such as Rollin West Ranch in South Central Alaska and Alaska Horsemen Trail Adventures in Anchorage. If you are looking for lessons, several ranches in Wasilla and Anchorage offer training for more serious riders. Lessons run year round, but horseback excursions usually run during the summer months.
Day Trips
If you're looking for a short horseback riding trip, you have a variety of options. Some ranches, like Alaska C & C Horse Adventures in Soldotna, offer supplemental excursions like fishing as part of the riding trip. Others, like Alaska Riding Adventures in Palmer, give guided and unguided tours by the hour along with overnight trips. Heavy Horse Farm in Fairbanks offers old fashioned sleigh rides in the wintertime, along with pony rides for riders under 12.
Lessons
If you're looking for more long-term, serious riding, you can take lessons at ranches in Alaska. Cypress Equestrian in Wasilla offers workshops and programs in addition to lessons. Huffman Horse Center in Anchorage gives traditional lessons and also teaches riders how to care for horses. Cowkidz Pony Ranch in Anchorage has summer camps for young riders that include horseback games, crafts and other riding activities. Most ranches will offer lessons in both English and Western riding styles.
Cost
Alaskan ranches that offer day excursions usually charge by the hour. Some ranches offer half-day excursions or retreats from about $90 to $130 per person as of 2010. Most day-long excursions run over $200. Longer packing trips on horseback range from about $1,000 for a three-day trip on the trails to $2,400 for a seven-day equestrian excursion. Lessons run about $55 for an hour or $100 for a full day of private lessons. You can get group lessons at a discount at most stables.
Essentials
Horses, saddles, bridles, safety equipment and other tack are provided by horseback riding ranches for excursions. For side excursions, such as fishing or photography, you'll need your own equipment. If you are taking lessons, stables will usually require that you buy your own helmet and boots. Boots with heels are the best for riding. Wear comfortable clothes that stretch easily and that you don't mind getting dirty.
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