Horseback Rides with Lava Horseback Adventures in Idaho - Idaho Falls

Horseback Rides with Lava Horseback Adventures in Idaho

Idaho Fallsmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

1–2 hours

Fitness Level

Basic physical fitness recommended to handle mounting, riding, and uneven trail terrain.

Overview

Venture beyond Idaho’s famous hot springs on a horseback ride with Lava Horseback Adventures. Calm horses, expert guides, and steep, scenic trails promise a true taste of southern Idaho’s wild side.

Details

Lava Hot Springs, Idaho, is known for its natural geothermal pools, but another way to connect with the landscape lies a little off the beaten path — on horseback. Lava Horseback Adventures LLC offers guided horseback trail rides through some of the region’s rugged and scenic terrain, offering a fresh perspective on southern Idaho’s foothills. With options for one- and two-hour rides, the outfitter caters to everyone from beginners to riders with some experience, providing calm, well-trained horses and guides familiar with the area’s rhythms and geology.

The trail routes wind through steep inclines, descents, and quiet forests, revealing wildflower-dotted meadows and wide views of the surrounding mountains. Riders often note the juxtaposition of raw natural beauty with the softened pace of a horseback pace, making the ride feel both adventurous and accessible. Guides like Jessica and Amber provide not only expert handling but also insight into the local flora, wildlife, and history.

Horse connections here run deep — each horse is well cared for and selected to match a rider’s skill level, helping even riders new to horseback riding feel secure on challenging cliffs and steep switchbacks. The ride can be customized to fit the group’s mood and fitness, making it a popular choice for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a memorable outdoor experience distinct from the town’s hot springs.

Lava Horseback Adventures has earned praise for its friendly, knowledgeable guides who balance safety with genuine enthusiasm. After a ride, visitors often linger to enjoy the hot springs nearby, rounding out a perfect day outdoors. For those in the greater Yellowstone and Jackson Hole corridor looking to break from the usual and take in Idaho’s rugged beauty from a saddle, this local operation offers a standout way to do exactly that.

Adventure Tips

Arrive early for orientation

Give yourself time to get familiar with the horses and safety instructions before the ride starts.

Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear

Protect your feet with boots or hiking shoes to handle horse stirrups and rocky terrain.

Follow guide instructions carefully

Steep inclines and narrow trails require focused attention and horse-handling to ensure safety.

Book the two-hour ride for fuller views

The longer ride covers more ground and offers greater variety of landscapes and photo opportunities.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Quiet meadows bursting with wildflowers in spring
  • Secluded cliff overlooks with panoramic mountain views

Wildlife

  • Mule deer
  • Red-tailed hawks

History

Lava Hot Springs has been a natural gathering spot for centuries, with indigenous peoples valuing its hot mineral waters.

Conservation

Lava Horseback Adventures practices sustainable trail use to minimize impact on delicate plant life and wildlife habitats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon)
Overcast mid-mornings

Best Viewpoints

  • High ridge trail overlooks
  • Wildflower meadows
  • Nearby hot spring pools

What to Photograph

Mountain vistas
Wildflowers and horses
Riders in action on dramatic trail sections

Recommended Gear

Riding boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes

Essential

Provide ankle support and protect feet during saddle mounting and trail riding.

Weather-appropriate layered clothing

Essential

Allows comfort across varying temperatures and protects against sun or wind.

all specific

Sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin during extended periods outdoors, especially on open trail sections.

spring|summer|fall specific

Water bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated is critical during horseback rides, especially in summer heat.

all specific