Are you interested in spending time with family and friends amongst nature and animals? Horseback trail riding tours can be the perfect way to do so. Horses and humans have had a strong bond throughout our history, taking a horseback trail riding tour can strengthen that bond. The perfect place to nurture that bond is in the American Southwest Region where horseback riding once was the only way to travel.

Regardless of your experience level with horses, taking a trail tour can provide you with incredible experiences you won’t forget. Trail riding can also expand your knowledge about riding horses, the region’s plant and animal life, and the geographical makeup of the region. Let’s discover what is out there waiting for you across the Southwestern United States horse trails.

Scenery Types

You’ll see all types of beautiful scenery while taking a horseback trail riding tour in the American Southwest. From dry deserts and deep canyons to large rivers and majestic mountains, you’ll feel like you’re in the middle of an old Western movie. There are also large varieties of animals and plants that you can’t see anywhere else! There are all different kinds of trails throughout the region, ranging from beginner-friendly to difficult. So whether you’re a horseback riding enthusiast or interested in just getting started, this region of the US offers something for everyone.  

• Deserts

The Mojave, Sonoran, and Chihuahuan Deserts influence most of the region’s geographical makeup. The deserts are home to a vast variety of plant life—especially the Sonoran Desert, which has the largest diversity of plants of any desert in the world. The Saguaro Cactus is unique to the Sonoran Desert and is definitely an iconic plant to see. You can see many rare plants and animals while riding on trails throughout the deserts of the Southwest. Riding a horse through the desert can be beginner-friendly, but make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks.

• Canyons

The most obvious canyon in the region is the Grand Canyon; this expansive park should be visited by everyone at least once! This is part of the Plateau Region, which is made up of high desert land, mesas, plateaus, and canyons. You can take a horseback trail tour down into the Grand Canyon; just imagine the excitement you will feel while traveling down the canyon on your horse. Some trail tours even offer an overnight camping trip so you can stay in the bottom of the Grand Canyon. Some canyon trails can be pretty difficult to navigate. Be sure to have a tour guide to help you make your way up and down canyons.

• Rivers

The Rio Grande and The Colorado River are the two major rivers in the region. These two expansive rivers are the 4th and 5th longest rivers in the US. You can view a variety of native fish, the Sandhill Crane, the ghost-faced bat, and many more native animals. A horseback ride across the trails around the rivers is a perfect way for nature lovers to see the massive region and all it has to offer. Just imagine spotting one of these majestic animals while you’re touring the trails along the rivers. There are also easier trails around the rivers that allow beginners to ease their way into horseback riding.

• Mountains

The Southwest region is sprinkled with many mountain ranges. Just imagine the scenic views of the landscapes below while you’re touring a trail on the mountainside. Some of the biggest ranges include the Sierra Nevada, Uinta, Wasatch, Pahvant, Rocky Mountains, and many more. The mountains in the region add a wonderful sight for your horseback tours. The best way to explore the mountainsides is on horseback because horses can easily maneuver around rocks and other debris. Mountain trails can be more difficult than others due to the elevation; make sure to research your trails before choosing one! 

Consider Horseback Riding For Your Next Trip

Many people choose to drive throughout the American Southwest to get to their scenic destinations, but one of the best ways to actually experience the environment is on horseback. While speed and convenience are important for our everyday lives, they aren’t important when you are trying to take in the beauty of nature, and taking your time while on these trail tours is the best way to enjoy the landscape of the region fully.  

Even if you are already a horseback riding pro, consider taking a horseback trail riding tour. Not only can guided trail tours help you get through the landscape safely, but they can also expand your knowledge of the terrain and wildlife in the area. Tour guides can help point out the best views and help you with your horse.  

Horseback Trail Riding Tours Are The Perfect Pastime

Overall, if you want to immerse yourself in the landscape of the American Southwest, try a horseback trail riding tour! There are so many dazzling attributes to the region that are worth taking the time to check out. Whether you want to see desert landscapes, mountain ranges, large canyons, or vast rivers, the American Southwest has everything a nature lover would want to observe. And the best part is that you get to see it all on horseback with your family and friends.