Saddleback Ranch - Horseback rides & Snowmobile Tours — Local services in Four Corners States

Visiting Steamboat for some some snowboarding and other activities, I found equestrian riding with Saddleback Ranch. I've always wanted to ride horses, but never got around to it, but now that I had the time and went ahead and booked a 2 hour reservation. I loved that they provide free shuttle service for this activity, and even called the day before to confirm pick-up time and location, because I didn't know they could pick-up us in front of where we were staying. (I didn't realize the name of the condo we were staying at so I picked another location that was next closest).

They were 10 minutes early to our pick-up, nbd since we were already there waiting. Then they went ahead and picked up a few other patrons before arriving at the ranch. There was a main ranch part where you submit your waiver (don't forget to print and sign/bring with you). But I did wish they had mentioned on their website that you can't bring backpacks, just essentials like your phone and wallet/maybe a bottle of water. Almost half our group had backpacks then was told we can't bring it along the horse ride.

I got a horse named Chelsea. She specializes in teaching children. I got her because I mentioned that I was a nervous about riding so the staff accommodated and gave me a horse that was extra well trained. LOL. The staff was very attentive and would always check on the riders to see if we're okay. Definitely put some sunblock on, I can feel the UV rays blasting back from the snow (even though it was cloudy/no sun), thankfully I had sunblock on + face covering on. Ride took about 1.5 hours, they provided cookies and apple cider after the ride!

Only thing was that, I'd def would plan for at least half the day, what I thought was going to be 2-2.5 hour excursion (with shuttle pick-up and drop-off), but ended up being 4.5ish hours instead. I appreciate that the ranch was super accommodating, but I feel like once the bus has driven far off enough, the group that wants on should just wait for the next one. We were almost to the main road when one of the groups changed their minds on the snowtubbing and wanted to go back to their hotel. We ended up making a u-turn to go pick them up, cost us another 30 minutes RT or so. Then they were also nice enough to drop someone's lost ID off, but would've been nice if they did it after dropping off everyone just out of business courtesy (although did they ask if we minded, but we didn't have the heart to be like, "can you drop us off first, it's getting late"-- we were the last group). We didn't get back to our lodge until almost 6PM.

Other than that, everything was great and we had a lot of fun! If we ever come back, might give their...

Saddleback Mountain Ranch is a perfect destination for all of your winter or summer mountain activities. My group visited for the winter activity of snowmobiling, but there are a number of other options available. Some of the other activities include tubing and horseback riding. I visited Saddleback many years ago for a horse drawn sleigh experience with my family. This time around, my adult siblings and I decided to be more adventurous and try out snowmobiling. I am so glad we did despite the cold temperatures. We booked our 2 hours snowmobiling experiences three days before participating, so I’d say it is easy to get booked in advance, but do still plan ahead. I can imagine that it gets busy here at certain times of the year. The snowmobile guides provided training and operating tips prior to the trail ride. The guides were incredibly friendly, informative and experienced. The ride itself is on a vast area of private land, so there is no worry for obstacles or other riders in the area to watch out for. The guides are knowledgeable of the area, and kept the ride going at a good pace. We got the opportunity to “tear up” an open field area after a fresh snowfall. To share our entire experience on the snowmobiles would be quite a bit of space, but I will just say that visiting Saddleback Ranch is a must while in Steamboat. Give your legs a break from the skis, and take a seat on a snowmobile, tube or horse at Saddleback Ranch! Not only is it a great winter experience, but you’re also supporting a local business. Our 2 hour snowmobiling experience ended with a treat of hot chocolate and cookies! I wish I could remember the name of our tour guide, but I know he’ll recognize us from our photo shared! Thank you Saddleback Ranch for a great...

I recommended a snowmobiling tour for my family (mom, dad & grandma) while we were in Steamboat on a snowboarding trip over MLK weekend and I picked Saddleback Ranch at random, as I was looking for a company that would pick us up and bring us back to our hotel at the base of Steamboat. During our recent stay, Steamboat received 4 feet of snow and being from Tennessee, we wanted someone else to drive us to the ranch. We purchased the 2 hour sunset excursion and got to traverse tight trails, snow drifts and our guide, Danny, let us drive fast in an open field area. The snowmobiles were new and nice; the heated handle bars were a much needed bonus. You can not wear too many layers! During our ride, my snowmobile caught the side of a drift and I was pulled into an area sinking in the fresh snow. Danny was quick and responsive and got me out FAST. He said, "You good?" I responded, "Yes, thanks." Then he said, "I'm good at helping get snowmobiles out of drifts, but you are on your own explaining what happened to your mom!" Our tour started in the light and we were given a great tutorial on how to ride, drive, and maneuver the new snowmobiles. About an hour into the ride, the sun went down, the lights on our snowmobiles illuminated and it was an awesome nighttime driving experience on the tight trails in the forest. Danny was a super helpful guide kind with his words and made us laugh. When we returned, the Saddleback team had a hot chocolate bar and cookies set up for us. If you are visiting Steamboat to ski, this is a must for your non-ski days. I would highly recommend this outfitter. Don't be scared to try something totally new, Danny and his team are expert...