easy
1–3 hours
Suitable for most fitness levels; mostly seated and leisurely paced.
Step back in time with JR’s Carriage Service in Grand Junction, where horse-drawn wine tours and draft horse shows bring Colorado’s outdoor heritage to life. Discover a unique way to experience the region’s landscapes and local culture.
Grand Junction, Colorado sits at the crossroads of the Colorado Plateau and Rocky Mountains, where red rock canyons deepen the landscape and vineyards spread across the valley floor. This vibrant outdoor hub is better known for biking trails and river adventures, but JR’s Carriage Service offers a distinctive experience that brings a timeless rhythm to the region’s outdoor scene. Specializing in horse-drawn carriage tours and classic draft horse shows, JR’s Carriage Service provides a slow-motion way to appreciate the area's natural beauty and community spirit. Rooted in Grand Junction’s western heritage, their signature offerings include the Classic 6-Horse Hitch Draft Horse Show, a visually striking display of powerful draft horses working in harmony, echoing traditions that stretch back to the early days of ranching in Colorado. The horse-drawn wine tours pair the region’s celebrated vineyards and rustic charm, offering guests a relaxed way to engage with the Colorado wine country without the usual buzz of motorized vehicles. From intimate bachelor and bachelorette groups to larger gatherings, these tours invite travelers to connect with the land and local flavors from the back of a historic carriage. In winter, the Horse-Drawn Christmas Light Tours transform local streets into a festive route, where the clopping of hooves mixes with shimmering holiday displays, creating a warm, community-centered outing against the crisp Colorado air. JR’s Carriage Service stands out in an active landscape not by speed, but by cadence and tradition—offering visitors a unique blend of outdoor beauty, craftsmanship, and a nod to the region's ranching roots. It’s a genuine experience to slow down, meet these impressive draft horses, and see Grand Junction from a fresh perspective.
Book in advance, especially for seasonal wine tours and holiday light rides, to secure your spot.
Carriage rides are open-air; layers and waterproof gear can keep you comfortable year-round.
Some carriages may not accommodate wheelchairs or strollers; inquire ahead for options.
Maintain calm behavior around animals and follow the guide’s instructions for safety.
The classic 6-horse hitch reflects the draft horse tradition critical to early western ranching and farming in Mesa County.
Local tours focus on low-impact, horse-powered travel to minimize environmental footprints and promote sustainable tourism.
To adjust easily to changing temperatures during outdoor carriage rides.
all specific
For any walking before or after tours, especially at vineyards or show venues.
all specific
Stay hydrated during warmer afternoon or early evening tours.
summer specific
To capture scenic landscapes, horses, and memorable moments along the ride.
all specific