Early ride through quiet red rock terrain along Castle Creek.
Calm horses make this an easy, confidence-building experience.
Learn about desert life and Western heritage from your wrangler.
Peaceful horseback adventure in the stillness of Castle Valley.

Castle Valley Morning Horseback Ride

★★★★★ 4.9 Out of 7417 Reviews

There’s something special about seeing Moab wake up from the saddle.

Your morning begins at the Red Cliffs corral, where you’ll meet your gentle, cowboy-trained Quarter Horse and a professional wrangler who takes time to ensure everyone feels confident before heading out. After a relaxed orientation in the corral, you’ll set off into Castle Creek Canyon. Cool air, soft light, and the quiet rhythm of hooves set the tone for the day ahead.

The trail winds alongside a clear mountain creek, crossing shallow water several times as towering 2,000-foot cliffs rise above you. With fewer distractions and cooler temperatures, the morning ride offers a peaceful, unhurried way to experience this exclusive canyon, reserved only for riders on this tour.

After returning to the corral, we encourage you to linger a bit. Take in the views, explore the ranch, and ease into the rest of your Moab adventure feeling grounded, refreshed, and already accomplished.

Important Notes:

Approximately 2 hours (includes ~30-minute orientation)
Maximum weight: 220 lbs (99 kg)
Minimum age: 10 years old and 4'2" (52 inches / 133 cm)
Helmets available; required for riders 16 and under
Return times vary with group size, weather, and timely departures

Horseback Trail Ride Details

"Horseback Riding w/ Kids was Awesome!"

★★★★★
Beautiful and peaceful horseback ride on real trails and through rivers. Melissa, our wrangler, was fantastic, and the kids loved it. We only wished for a bit more trotting, but highly recommend!

Matt - West Jordan, UT

"Horseback Riding Moab Utah"

★★★★★
We had such a wonderful time on the Castle Valley Horseback Ride. It was the best ever and I've had quite a few. Great trail, horses and wranglers.

Greg - Myrtle Beach, SC

"Horseback Riding"

★★★★★
Our Red Cliffs Lodge horseback ride was extraordinary—small group, exciting terrain, and the most beautiful scenery I’ve seen in years of riding the West.

Lydia – Laurel, MD

4.9 ★★★★★

852+ REVIEWS

4.9 ★★★★★

2K+ REVIEWS

5.0 ★★★★★

2K+ REVIEWS

4.7 ★★★★★

345+ REVIEWS

Moab Horseback Rides in Castle Valley Trip Reviews

Your Horseback Ride

Do I need prior riding experience for this horseback ride?
No experience is necessary. Your wrangler will teach you the basics in the corral before you start, and the horses are calm and well trained for new riders.
What makes this morning horse ride different from midday ride?
The morning ride and midday ride cover the same terrain, but just provide the option to do the ride at different times of day.
How much time do we spend in the saddle, and are there breaks?
You’ll spend approximately 1.5 to 2 hours in the saddle, with the first 30 minutes dedicated to orientation. The pace is steady but not rushed, and there are natural pauses for creek crossings and photo opportunities.
What kind of terrain and scenery should I expect?
The trail winds through a canyon lined with 2,000-foot red cliffs and a clear desert creek. The terrain is gentle enough for beginners, but varied enough to make the ride exciting and memorable.
Will we be riding into Castle Creek Canyon?
Yes. This ride follows exclusive trails into Castle Creek Canyon, giving you a special sense of seclusion and access to some of Moab’s most stunning scenery.
Are helmets required, and who has to wear them?
Helmets are provided for all riders. They are required for minors under 16 and optional for adults.
What are the age, height, and weight limits?
Riders must be at least 10 years old, 4’3” tall (52 inches / 133 cm), and under 220 pounds. These guidelines keep both horse and rider comfortable for the full ride.
What should I bring for the longer morning ride?
Wear closed-toe shoes and long pants. Bring water, sunscreen, and a camera. Mornings can be cooler, so a light jacket or layer is often helpful in spring or fall.
Is this ride suitable for older kids or teens?
Yes. Many families book this ride with older children or teens. It’s a great way for them to try something new while experiencing Moab’s landscapes in a unique way.
What happens if the weather delays our ride?
If weather causes unsafe conditions, rides may be rescheduled or canceled. If your ride is canceled, you’ll receive a full refund or can choose to rebook.

TOURS & ADVENTURES

ATTRACTIONS

ACCOMMODATIONS

AREA INFORMATION

Highlights

Castle Valley Morning Horseback Ride

What’s Included

What’s Not Included

Morning Horseback Ride: Cowboy-Guided Trail Through Castle Creek Canyon with Towering Cliffs and Secluded Views

Horseback Trail Ride Details

COMFORT & CONVENIENCE

ICONIC LANDMARK ACCESS

EXPERT LOCAL GUIDES

HASSLE-FREE LOGISTICS

AUTHENTIC CONNECTION

PERFECTLY PACED ADVENTURE

"Horseback Riding w/ Kids was Awesome!"

"Horseback Riding Moab Utah"

"Horseback Riding"

4.9 ★★★★★

4.9 ★★★★★

5.0 ★★★★★

4.7 ★★★★★

What to Bring on this Tour

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior riding experience for this horseback ride?

What makes this morning horse ride different from midday ride?

How much time do we spend in the saddle, and are there breaks?

What kind of terrain and scenery should I expect?

Will we be riding into Castle Creek Canyon?

Are helmets required, and who has to wear them?

What are the age, height, and weight limits?

What should I bring for the longer morning ride?

Is this ride suitable for older kids or teens?

What happens if the weather delays our ride?

Make the Most of Moab

Castle Valley Morning Horseback Ride