Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any other questions not listed here, feel free to call us at 1(406)-640-3020, or email us at help@yellowstonehorsebackriding.com.
Where does the tour ride take us?

The horseback ride will not take you into Yellowstone Park. You will be be able to appreciate the views of West Yellowstone with way less traffic and just as gorgeous views for you and your family.

How old do you have to be to ride a horse?

Our liability insurance requires the rider to be six years old the day of the ride. All YOUNG RIDERS, any cowpoke under 18 years old, must be accompanied by a parent.  

What time should I arrive for my appointment?

Customers will have their best experience when they arrive 30 minutes before the appointment time listed.
Example: 9:00 for 9:30am appointment.

What should I wear for the horseride?

Wear long pants with sturdy, closed-toe shoes. A pair of tennis shoes will do and so will cowboy boots. NO SANDALS ALLOWED.

What can I bring on the ride?

Feel free to bring along Cameras, water bottles, and other small items. NO BACKPACKS. We will provide saddle horn bags for your convenience. Helmet are provided upon request. Safety is our top priority.

What is the weight limit to ride horses?

There is no weight limit for riders. You know your body best! Pulling yourself up onto your horse and maintaining your balance and good posture throughout the entire ride is key.

Can I do horseback rides before or after the season?

Yellowstone has a short summer season, and remains a good part of the year under snow. As such, our ranch and horses stay the winters in a warmer place. This gives the ground time to heal after a grazing and riding season. Frequently, wildlife from Yellowstone migrate to lower elevations, like our ranch in the winter. Less people and pressure keep these creatures alive.

Can I ride on the same horse with my kid?

Our liability insurance does not allow riding “double” (two riders on the same horse). If it would ease your mind, you could ask the guide to attach a halter rope & lead your child's horse, during the ride. (I would suggest you add that request, when booking your reservation online).

Can I be late to my riding appointment?

We can’t hold the ride for late arrivals, so please give yourself plenty of time to get here. Traffic, construction, and even buffalo crossings can slow you down!

Can I Pick which horse I get to ride?

Each horse has it's own temperament, ride schedule, and capacity. Our wranglers care for and know these behaviors. We have the serious responsibility to ensure your ride is smooth.

What do real cowboys think of Yellowstone?

Most working cowboys appreciate the attention Yellowstone brings to Western culture, ranch life, and horseback riding traditions. While Hollywood dramatizes things, real cowboys recognize the value in keeping horseback riding, open-range riding, and Western heritage alive—especially in places like West Yellowstone where guests can experience it firsthand on guided trail rides.

Where is there to eat in West Yellowstone?

West Yellowstone, Montana offers plenty of great dining options before or after your horseback riding adventure in Yellowstone National Park. Visitors often enjoy local favorites like steakhouses, pizza spots, and casual diners within minutes of the park entrance. Many guests plan a horseback riding tour in the morning and enjoy a relaxing meal in town afterward, making it easy to turn a day in West Yellowstone into a full Western experience.

How much does horseback riding cost in West Yellowstone?

Horseback riding near West Yellowstone typically costs $60–$120 per person for an hour ride, with longer scenic rides ranging from $150–$300+ per person depending on duration and experience level. Most visitors choose guided trail rides because they offer the best way to explore Yellowstone’s surrounding landscapes safely with experienced wranglers and well-trained horses.

Availability is limited during peak summer months, so advanced booking is highly recommended.

Can you ride horses while pregnant?

For safety reasons, most horseback riding tours in the Yellowstone area do not allow riding while pregnant. Even gentle trail rides can involve sudden movements or uneven terrain. If you are pregnant and planning a trip to West Yellowstone, we recommend enjoying other scenic activities and booking a horseback ride after pregnancy for a safer and more comfortable experience.

What is there to do in West Yellowstone?

West Yellowstone is one of the best gateways into Yellowstone National Park and offers unforgettable outdoor activities. Top experiences include:

  • Guided horseback riding tours through forest and mountain trails
  • Wildlife viewing (bison, elk, and more)
  • Scenic drives and photo opportunities
  • Snowmobile adventures in winter
  • Visiting local attractions like the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center

For many visitors, horseback riding is the most memorable way to experience the Yellowstone backcountry.

Where is West Yellowstone located?

West Yellowstone sits in southwestern Montana, near the borders of Idaho and Wyoming. It is directly adjacent to the West Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, making it a prime location for booking horseback riding tours, lodging, and outdoor adventures all in one place.

Where can I stay in West Yellowstone?

West Yellowstone offers a wide range of lodging options including hotels, rustic cabins, and vacation rentals just minutes from horseback riding tours. Many visitors choose accommodations close to trail ride outfitters so they can easily book morning or evening rides without long travel times.

Staying in town makes it simple to plan a full Yellowstone horseback riding experience during your visit.

What should I wear during horseback riding?

For the best and safest horseback riding experience in West Yellowstone, we recommend:

  • Long pants like jeans or durable outdoor wear
  • Closed-toe shoes or boots with a small heel
  • Layered clothing for changing mountain weather
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen for outdoor protection

Dressing properly helps ensure comfort while riding through Yellowstone’s scenic terrain.

How much does horseback riding cost?

Horseback riding tours near Yellowstone generally range from $60 to $120 for shorter rides, with longer scenic experiences priced higher. Pricing depends on ride length, group size, and trail location. Most guests choose guided rides because they offer the safest and most immersive way to explore Yellowstone’s surrounding wilderness.

Is there a weight limit for horseback riding?

Yes, most horseback riding companies near West Yellowstone have a weight limit—typically around 225–250 lbs, depending on the horse and trail conditions. This ensures safety, comfort, and the best experience for both riders and horses during guided Yellowstone trail rides.

Is horseback riding good exercise?

Yes—horseback riding is a great full-body activity. It engages your core, legs, and balance muscles while improving coordination and posture. Even a relaxed scenic ride near West Yellowstone provides light exercise combined with fresh air and unforgettable views.

Horseback riding can burn approximately 200–400 calories per hour depending on terrain and riding intensity.

Is horseback riding dangerous?

Horseback riding is considered a safe and family-friendly activity when guided by trained professionals. Reputable Yellowstone-area outfitters use experienced horses and provide safety instructions to ensure a controlled and enjoyable ride. Most guests find it both safe and incredibly rewarding.

What is horse boarding and how does it work?

Horse boarding is a service where horse owners pay a ranch or stable to care for their horses. Services typically include feeding, shelter, turnout, and sometimes riding access or training facilities.

Horse boarding works on a monthly care arrangement where the facility provides feeding, housing, and basic care for the horse. Some ranches also offer riding arenas and trail access. In ranch-heavy regions like West Yellowstone, boarding is common for owners who want professional horse care near open riding country.

Cancellation Policy

48-Hour Cancellation Policy

To provide the highest level of service and ensure availability for all clients, we require a minimum of 48 hours' notice for any ride cancellation.

Cancellations must be made by phone or email no later than 48 hours prior to the scheduled ride time. If a cancellation request is received less than 48 hours before the scheduled ride, the client will be responsible for 100% of the total ride cost, and the full amount will be charged.

By booking with us, you acknowledge and agree to this cancellation policy.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.