Discover breathtaking ridge-top views on a guided horseback ride through 3,200 acres of Colorado wilderness. Perfect for all skill levels, this 1.5-hour adventure promises an unforgettable outdoor experience near Loveland.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic balance and comfort on horseback required.
Wildlife
History
Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch has been operating since 1918, preserving Colorado’s western ranching heritage through outdoor experiences.
Conservation
The ranch practices sustainable land management to protect local wildlife habitats and minimize environmental impact.
Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch
Discover breathtaking ridge-top views on a guided horseback ride through 3,200 acres of Colorado wilderness. Perfect for all skill levels, this 1.5-hour adventure promises an unforgettable outdoor experience near Loveland.
Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch, located in Loveland, Colorado, is a guest ranch that provides guided horseback riding across 3,200 acres of private ranchland. The ranch focuses on scenic trail rides that showcase ridge-top views, shaded gulches, and rocky slopes. Qualified wranglers lead rides designed for all skill levels, from first-time riders to experienced equestrians, and prioritize safety, comfort, and an enjoyable outdoor experience.
Available riding options include one-hour, one-and-a-half-hour, and two-hour scenic trail rides that traverse diverse terrain and panoramic overlooks. Each guided ride highlights natural features of the ranch and is paced to match rider ability. Sylvan Dale also offers lead rides for young children ages 3 to 6; these arena-based sessions feature three controlled laps led by a wrangler to introduce very young riders to horseback riding in a supervised setting.
As a guest ranch operating in northern Colorado, Sylvan Dale combines outdoor recreation with family-friendly programming, making it suitable for multigenerational groups seeking a nature-based activity near Loveland. The riding experiences emphasize hands-on instruction, steady mounts appropriate to rider experience, and attentive wrangler guidance. Riders can expect interpretive trail narration, gentle trail pacing for novices, and opportunities to enjoy expansive views across the ranch landscape.
Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch maintains a focus on providing safe, guided horseback riding experiences that allow guests to access Colorado's natural scenery from horseback, creating memorable outdoor adventures for visitors of varied ages and abilities. Seasonal weather affects trail conditions, and wranglers adjust routes and pacing to match conditions for guest safety.
Ranch Size
3,200 acres
Wide trails and ridge-top views
Location
Loveland, Colorado
Northern Colorado guest ranch
Family Friendly
Ages 3+
Lead rides for young children
Ride Options
1 / 1.5 / 2 hrs
Multiple guided trail durations
Secure a guided horseback experience across Sylvan Dale's 3,200 acres — rides available for all ages and skill levels.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Protect your feet by wearing sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for horseback riding.
Bring sunscreen and a hat
Shield yourself from Colorado's strong sun during the ride, especially in open ridge-top sections.
Stay hydrated
Bring a water bottle and drink plenty of water before and after the ride to stay hydrated.
Listen to your wrangler
Follow the guide’s safety instructions carefully for a smooth and secure experience.
Closed-toe riding boots
Provides foot protection and grip while riding.
Sun hat or cap
Protects your face and neck from sun exposure.
summer
Layered clothing
Allows adjustment to changing temperatures during the ride.
spring
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout the adventure.