Business Details
27 Years
experience
Arizona's Premier Horseback Riding Experience
Cave Creek Trail Rides has been Arizona's premier horseback riding company since 1999, offering guided trail rides through the scenic Sonoran Desert. Founded by Jeff and Deb Bitton, the business was acquired in 2016 by Mathew and Rebekah Cain, who continue the legacy of prioritizing safety, exceptional customer service, and unforgettable experiences. Our team of knowledgeable guides shares the rich history of Cave Creek while ensuring riders of all skill levels enjoy breathtaking views of the desert and surrounding mountains. We provide family-friendly rides with well-maintained, gentle horses and include complimentary cowboy boots, hats, and chaps for an authentic western experience.With over two decades of combined experience, our owners bring a deep passion for horsemanship and outdoor adventure to every ride. We operate seasonally in Arizona and Idaho, adapting to climate needs while maintaining a commitment to preserving natural landscapes. Our dedication to quality has made us a trusted choice for sunset rides, birthday celebrations, and educational programs like the Girl Scout Historic Clay Mine Tour. Every ride reflects our mission to create lasting memories while connecting guests with the beauty of the desert and the heritage of the American West.
Services
Guided Trail Rides
Sunset Horseback Rides
Historic Clay Mine Ride
Birthday Party Packages
Summer Location Idaho
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- We offer over 20 years of experience providing horseback riding adventures in Arizona
- Our knowledgeable guides share local history and desert ecology during rides
- We include complimentary western gear for authentic photo opportunities
- Our horses are gentle, well-maintained, and suited for all experience levels
- We operate seasonally in Arizona and Idaho to ensure optimal riding conditions
What people say
Fantastic job
Gorgeous sunset
Knowledgeable guide
Gentle horses
Unexpected fun perk
Services
Guided Trail Rides
Explore the Sonoran Desert on horseback with expert guides leading scenic routes through cacti-studded landscapes and historic mining areas. Rides accommodate all skill levels, offering durations from 1 to 3 hours with elevation changes and wildlife viewing opportunities. Our gentle horses and safety-focused approach make these rides ideal for families and first-time riders seeking authentic western experiences.
Sunset Horseback Rides
Experience breathtaking desert sunsets during our specialized evening rides that combine natural beauty with western heritage. Guests enjoy panoramic views of Phoenix Valley while riding westward trails that return to the corrals at dusk. Complimentary cowboy gear enhances photo opportunities against the colorful desert sky, creating lasting memories for visitors seeking romantic or family-friendly twilight adventures.
Historic Clay Mine Ride
Combine horseback riding with history through this unique program featuring a guided walking tour inside a preserved desert clay mine. Riders explore geological formations and learn about Cave Creek's mining heritage during this 1.5-hour adventure that includes exclusive access to restricted areas. The experience blends outdoor recreation with educational elements about the region's industrial past and natural resources.
Birthday Party Packages
Celebrate special occasions with customized trail rides that include western-themed decorations and photo opportunities. Our staff accommodates group sizes for birthday events, providing a memorable outdoor experience with scenic desert backdrops. Packages include equipment rentals and themed accessories to create a festive atmosphere for riders celebrating milestones in the Arizona wilderness.
Summer Location Idaho
Experience alpine horseback adventures at Mystic Saddle Ranch in Idaho during Arizona's hot season. Our guides lead rides through Sawtooth Wilderness areas with opportunities for fly fishing and multi-day pack trips. This seasonal operation maintains the same quality standards as our Arizona location while offering cooler-weather riding through mountainous terrain and pristine wilderness areas.
People
Mathew Cain
Owner
Mathew Cain co-owns Cave Creek Trail Rides with his wife Rebekah. He began working with the original founders in 2009, learning the business before purchasing it in 2016. With decades of experience in equine management and outdoor recreation, he maintains the company's commitment to quality western experiences.
Rebekah Cain
Owner
Rebekah Cain co-owns the business with her husband Mathew. She transitioned from employee to owner in 2016, continuing the tradition of exceptional customer service established by the previous owners. She actively participates in daily operations and shares her passion for horses and desert landscapes with guests.
Allison
Guide
Allison is a featured trail guide known for her engaging personality and extensive knowledge of desert ecosystems. She creates welcoming experiences for riders while sharing insights about local flora, fauna, and western heritage during guided excursions through Cave Creek Regional Park.
Izac
Guide
Izac is a professional trail guide recognized for his friendly demeanor and expertise in desert horsemanship. He contributes to the company's reputation for excellent service by ensuring rider safety and enjoyment while sharing stories about the region's natural and cultural history during tours.
Colter Blaze Cain
Crew Member
Colter Blaze Cain joined the team in 2021 as the son of owners Mathew and Rebekah. He assists with daily operations while learning the family business, helping maintain the legacy of quality trail rides established by previous generations while contributing fresh energy to the organization.
Questions
What age requirements exist for riders?
Children must be at least 6 years old to participate in trail rides. No double riding is allowed for safety reasons.
Are there weight restrictions for riders?
Yes, we have a 230-pound weight limit to ensure rider and horse safety. This policy helps protect both guests and our animals.
What's included in the trail ride experience?
Rides include horse rental, experienced guide service, and complimentary western gear (boots, hats, chaps). Park entry fees apply separately.
Can I cancel or change my reservation?
Changes must be made by 5pm the day before your ride. Late cancellations result in charges for reserved spots.
What makes the Historic Clay Mine Ride unique?
This special ride includes a guided walking tour inside a restricted desert mine, offering exclusive access to learn about local geology and mining history.
Reviews (4)
Ronda Penter
Jan 28, 2022
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It was a little disappointing, as the whole time was nose to butt with the horses. The terrain and scenery was gorgeous.
T was a good guide
T was a good guide
Dara Jakins
Jan 25, 2022
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Fantastic experience. We did the 1 hour sunset trail ride with Tienna and had a wonderful time. She was friendly and patient and the views were superb. The horses were well trained and well cared for. Would love to do this again.
Erin Henson
Jan 01, 2022
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Our trail guide Teinna was amazing, super friendly, and very knowledgeable. I would recommend the sunset trail ride or any of the the trail rides this company has to offer to anyone of my friends and family. The horses were calm and friendly. Since we live here in the valley I would definitely come here to do horseback riding. Love love love
JoLynn
Dec 29, 2021
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This place was wonderful. They had boots, hats, and chaps for everyone to borrow if they wanted. The horses were all well trained and beautiful. Our guid, Fiona was amazing. We were a large group and she learned all our names in minutes. She took very good care of us. I would definitely recommend them.
