Business Details
27 Years
experience
Guided Horseback Trail Rides in Colorado's Scenic Mountains
A & A Historical Trails was founded in 1999 by Ginger DeRay, whose lifelong connection to horses began in her family's lodge and pony ring operations in Grand Lake, CO. With over four decades of hands-on experience in equestrian services, we specialize in guided trail rides that combine Colorado's natural beauty with historical exploration. Our team of expert guides delivers personalized experiences ranging from one-hour introductory rides to two-hour excursions through mountainous terrain and historic sites.We maintain a herd of well-trained horses carefully selected for their temperament and reliability, ensuring safe and enjoyable experiences for riders of all skill levels. Our commitment to quality service was recognized through years of operation in Idaho Springs, with a focus on preserving trail accessibility and historical context. We emphasize transparent communication with clients about weather-dependent operations and provide detailed preparation guidance to ensure visitor satisfaction.
Services
Guided Trail Rides
Historical Cemetery Tours
Mountain Scenic Routes
Beginner Horseback Lessons
Group Riding Excursions
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- Experienced guides with decades of equestrian expertise
- Scenic mountain trails with historical mining route access
- Multiple ride durations to accommodate different schedules
- Personalized service with small group sizes
- Well-trained horses suitable for all rider skill levels
What people say
Great views
Super informative guides
Perfect horses
Historic routes
Memorable experience
Services
Guided Trail Rides
Our guided trail rides traverse Colorado's scenic mountain landscapes. Expert guides lead groups through historic mining routes and natural vistas. Rides accommodate all skill levels with durations from one to two hours. The experience includes safety instruction and horse handling guidance for first-time riders while offering challenging terrain options for experienced equestrians.
Historical Cemetery Tours
Combine history with outdoor adventure through our cemetery trail rides. These specialized tours explore abandoned mining communities and pioneer burial grounds. Knowledgeable guides share local history while navigating preserved 19th-century routes. The moderate difficulty level requires basic riding skills and includes interpretive stops at significant historical markers.
Mountain Scenic Routes
Experience Colorado's alpine beauty from horseback on our mountain scenic routes. These rides feature panoramic views of peaks and valleys. Routes vary by season to showcase wildflowers, fall foliage, or snow-covered landscapes. Riders enjoy photo opportunities and wildlife viewing in designated natural areas.
People
Ginger DeRay
Owner & Operator
Ginger DeRay founded A & A Historical Trails after decades working with horses since childhood. Born in 1955, she began training horses at 15 and has operated Colorado trail services since the 1970s. Her expertise includes historical trail preservation and equestrian tourism development.
Questions
What ride durations are available?
We offer 1-hour, 90-minute, and 2-hour horseback riding options through our Colorado trails.
Are there age restrictions?
No minimum age limit - children under 5 ride double with adults. All skill levels welcome.
How do weather conditions affect rides?
Rides operate weather permitting - check conditions by calling 720-717-4086 before visiting.
What should I wear for a trail ride?
Long pants and closed-toed shoes required. Avoid sandals for safety during mountain rides.
What weight limit applies to riders?
Maximum rider weight limit of 230 pounds ensures horse welfare and rider safety.
Reviews (6)
Ernesto Delgado
Nov 07, 2021
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Great time! Ginger was awesome. She had so many facts about the area and the old mines. The horses were super friendly and well behaved.
Dray Custard
Nov 03, 2021
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We had a great 27th anniversary ride. Ginger was so patient with us getting lost. She made sure we arrived for our ride calling us at least 4 time to get us where we needed to be, giggle. Emma our guide was knowledgeable , fun. Well worth going, awesome !!!!
James Groth
Oct 02, 2021
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Beautiful location for a ride, our guide Izzy was great, and our horses were so relaxed. We were originally supposed to go a couple of months ago and had to reschedule last minute due to an injury and the owner was very accommodating even though we were outside of the cancellation/reschedule window. A note to anyone who hasn't had a ride like this before, bring some cash so if you have a good time you can tip your guide!
Diane Kelly
Oct 01, 2021
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A Beautiful Fall Day! Thank you Ginger for a spectacular trial ride, the horses were awesome and views and company were even better! LOVED IT! A scenic way to see the fall colors.
Elizabeth Harding
Sep 24, 2021
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I took my daughter on a horse ride for her 5th birthday. I wrote an email before booking online to check what options we had for a 5-year-old who had never ridden a horse before. The owner left me a voicemail reply that kids are permitted to ride solo OR tandem with an adult, depending on the child's level of comfort and experience. I opted to ride tandem and easily booked the ride online. I followed the instructions on how to find the ranch and had no problems. I recommend bringing a helmet for you/your child to wear, as the ranch does not supply them. (I brought one for my daughter.)
The ride
The ride
Chris Vallowe
Sep 23, 2021
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Had an amazing time with spectacular autumn views! A&A and Ginger were wonderful, really enjoyed my ride (Bonnie was a sweet and beautiful horse) through the golden aspens and through the old mining ruins. Highly recommend!
