Business Details
Adventure Horseback Riding in Virgin, Utah
At Zion Trail Rides, we redefine horseback riding through an immersive, educational, and adrenaline-fueled experience rooted in the traditions of the American West. Our approach emphasizes equistthe language of horsesteaching riders to communicate effectively with these intelligent animals. Guests engage in a structured three-phase journey: orientation, cowboy camp, and trail riding, culminating in a personalized adventure where riders demonstrate mastery of skills. Our team of expert wranglers fosters a bond between humans and horses, ensuring even beginners gain confidence and competence. We operate under a strict guarantee: if your adventure ride isnt the most exciting experience youve had, its free.With decades of expertise in equestrian education and adventure tourism, we prioritize safety, authenticity, and unforgettable memories. Our staff combines deep knowledge of horse behavior with a commitment to preserving Western heritage, offering a unique blend of instruction and exhilaration. Clients consistently praise our ability to transform novices into capable riders while delivering thrills through creek crossings, hill climbs, and high-speed gallops. We adhere to rigorous standards of service, ensuring every guest feels empowered and connected to the spirit of the Old West.
Services
Trail Rides
Cowboy Camp
Horse Introduction
Adventure Rides
Family-Friendly Excursions
Highlights and features
- We offer a patented process for bonding with horses through equist (horse communication).
- Our wranglers combine decades of equestrian expertise with Western heritage education.
- We guarantee unmatched excitement or your adventure ride is free.
- We transform novices into confident riders capable of handling any horse.
- Our rides feature creek crossings, steep hill climbs, and high-speed gallops for adrenaline seekers.
What people say
Most exciting experience
Best time ever
Amazing bond with horses
Guarantee fulfilled
Transformed novice riders
Services
Trail Rides
Explore Zions rugged terrain on horseback through guided trail rides designed for all skill levels. Guests traverse creeks, steep hills, and scenic vistas while learning riding techniques. The experience includes safety instruction, gear fitting, and personalized guidance from expert wranglers.
Cowboy Camp
Develop a bond with your horse in a 50-ft training pen through interactive exercises. Learn directional control, speed adjustments, and playful engagement to build trust. This phase emphasizes equist (horse communication) and culminates in leading your horse without a rope.
Horse Introduction
Meet unsaddled horses and receive detailed profiles of their age, breed, and personality. Spend time mingling with horses to find your ideal match. Staff explain equist principles and debunk myths about horse behavior during this hands-on orientation.
Adventure Rides
Experience high-speed gallops, creek jumps, and hill climbs tailored to rider skill levels. The 'Gauntlet' segment offers a unique, unpredictable trail challenge exclusive to Jacobs Ranch. Riders progress through six speed gears, from walking to racing, with safety prioritized.
Family-Friendly Excursions
Customizable rides for families and groups, emphasizing education and safety. Children learn basic equist and riding skills alongside adults. The experience accommodates varying fitness levels while ensuring memorable interactions with horses and landscapes.
Questions
What is included in the trail ride experience?
The experience includes horse selection, equist instruction, cowboy camp training, and guided trail rides with creek crossings, hill climbs, and high-speed gallops.
Is prior riding experience required?
No prior experience is needed. Most guests are beginners, and the structured three-phase approach ensures all skill levels can participate safely and confidently.
What is the guarantee mentioned in the description?
If your adventure ride isn’t the most exciting, adventurous, and informative experience you’ve had, it’s free (applies to Adventure Rides).
What should I wear for the ride?
Wear long pants, long socks, a hat, sunglasses, and bring water. Closed-toe shoes are required for safety during horse interactions.
Can children participate in the rides?
Yes, children as young as 10 can join family-friendly excursions. Parents receive guidance to ensure their child’s safety and engagement with horses.
Reviews (6)
Meagan Nelson
Dec 28, 2021
Report
We accidently set up camp on their property (we were camping on someone's private land with permission, and it boarders their property with no obvious division)
One of their cowboys rode up, rudely explained the situation and told us to leave. I told them of course, our bad, thanks for letting us know, it'll take a moment to pack up and leave, obviously but we'll be gone asap. (We were only there 15 minutes)
Then the cowboy said regarding our dog (that was leashed next to me, no where near him or his horses, I grew up on a farm) if I see your dog anywhere around here I'll likely shoot it.
He
One of their cowboys rode up, rudely explained the situation and told us to leave. I told them of course, our bad, thanks for letting us know, it'll take a moment to pack up and leave, obviously but we'll be gone asap. (We were only there 15 minutes)
Then the cowboy said regarding our dog (that was leashed next to me, no where near him or his horses, I grew up on a farm) if I see your dog anywhere around here I'll likely shoot it.
He
Dwayne Klimenko
Nov 01, 2021
Report
Gotta give them a low score just because of stone age technology they are using to book rides. The only way you can get a ride scheduled is to call. However, when you do call, no one answers....you get to leave a message on a machine. I left 4 messages on 4 different and consecutive days trying to book an experience for my son and I and never received a call back. It sounds like a great experience, but if you make it hard for customers to do business....you should just shut the doors and eliminate the frustration caused for people wanting to give you money. Fortunately, Southern Utah has plenty
J. Hales
Oct 31, 2021
Report
Friendly staff/trail guides! We took the three hour tour. Take your ibuprofen before the ride and youll be fine. This is not a kiddie ride but newbies can take this ride just fine. Its well worth the time and money. Rates are very fair. The view is amazing and the horses are excellent at their job. Highly recommend!
Dennis Doroslovac
Dec 07, 2020
Report
I spent weeks planning a proposal that was intended to be personal, very enjoyable, and totally unsuspected. I began by calling and chatting with Jackson, who brought his wife Sheryl on the line to help out. Half hour on the first phone call, great receptivity and flexibility. I didn't know what I was doing so this really helped. Fast forward, we fly in, I make it out to the ranch alone to discuss details. They are busy, it is evident. Yet i requested a private ride for myself, my (now) wife, and just a wrangler. On the phone I could hear them moving groups around to make this possible. Incredible
Donna LaMont
Nov 23, 2020
Report
Great experience! Our guide Landis was so helpful and kind. It was so beautiful to be out in Zions on a horse. I think they wanted our group to be a little more daring, but we were really just enjoying the day and the scenery. Definitely want to go again!
Dennis & Lindsay Leiva
Sep 29, 2020
Report
The ride is the best anywhere. If I could give them 10 stars I would. This is by far the best ride I have been on and I've been on many. This was my husband first time learning how to trot canter lope and run The wrangler was great and funny the couple we rode with were great too. My horse blue eyes was the best nice smooth ride and the views they take you to you can't get anywhere else. Definitely coming back next year! Thank you Jacob ranch for the best ride of my life you definitely should come check it out for your self!
