A Special Holiday Event!
Discover a magical holiday horse-drawn ride through scenic meadows and a Christmas tree forest in Pagosa Springs, Colorado. Cozy up with cookies, cocoa, and a bonfire at The Claus Cookie Hut and meet Santa himself!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; no riding experience needed
Wildlife
History
Pagosa Springs sits within the ancestral lands of the Ute people and has been a mountain destination since the late 19th century.
Conservation
The Santa Ride supports low-impact tourism by limiting group size and keeping natural areas pristine during winter activities.
Buckaroos Horse-Drawn Rides
A Special Holiday Event!
Buckaroos Horse-Drawn Rides is a Pagosa Springs, Colorado-based operator offering horse-drawn wagon and carriage experiences on a private ranch setting.
The business provides a range of guided experiences: one-hour Public Scenic Rides, Public Wagon Rides, Private Scenic Rides and Private Carriage Rides; a seasonal Colorfest Breakfast Ride paired with breakfast at Elk Trace Bed and Breakfast; a Sweetheart's Special for Valentine’s Day; and a 1.5-hour Campfire Roast family social. Rides pass through mountain vistas, meadows, ponderosa pine forests, and lakes, as described in each trip summary.
Guests meet and interact with draft horses and the driver before departure. Many tours include a warm or refreshing beverage, and some evening rides feature special lighting for enhanced atmosphere. Private Scenic Rides can accommodate groups of up to 20 guests. Colorfest offerings include a morning ride and a breakfast at Elk Trace Bed and Breakfast, with live piano or other live music included in certain events. The Sweetheart's Special combines a scenic ride with charcuterie and sparkling beverages at Elk Trace Bed & Breakfast followed by a ride through ponderosa forest.
Guests are welcome to take photographs during and after rides to capture group moments and landscapes. Bookings are available as public or private tours to suit both single-party visitors and groups seeking exclusive rides. All information reflects the specific trips and details provided for Buckaroos Horse-Drawn Rides.
Location
Pagosa Springs, Colorado
Located in Pagosa Springs, Colorado
Scenic Views
Mountains, meadows, forests, lakes
Views listed in trip descriptions
Tours Offered
7 unique experiences
Public, private, and seasonal options
Typical Lengths
1 hour and 1.5 hours
One-hour rides; campfire is 1.5 hours
Book public or private wagon and carriage rides, Colorfest breakfasts, private scenic outings, or a family campfire roast today.
Dress Warm and Layer Up
Temperatures can drop sharply; bring insulated clothing and layers to stay warm during the outdoor ride.
Arrive Early for Meet & Greet
Plan to arrive 15 minutes early to meet the horses and drivers before the ride begins for a relaxed start.
Bring a Camera for Photos
Don’t forget your camera or phone for photo opportunities with Santa and scenic winter landscapes.
Tip Your Driver
Drivers rely on gratuities; bring cash or Venmo to tip and show appreciation for their care and expertise.
Warm Insulated Jacket
Keeps you comfortable during the chilly ride through snowy meadows and forests.
winter
Gloves and Hat
Protects extremities from cold and wind on the open horse-drawn carriage.
winter
Sturdy Waterproof Boots
Ensures warm, dry feet during outdoor waiting and walking to the hut.
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Camera or Smartphone
Capture memories with Santa and the beautiful winter landscape.