Ride through the serene Arizona desert then savor a delicious sunset dinner by the bonfire. Experience this unique horseback adventure and cookout in Scottsdale today.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; no prior horseback riding experience required since guides provide instruction.
Wildlife
History
MacDonald's Ranch has been welcoming visitors since the 1940s, maintaining traditional ranching spirit in Scottsdale's desert.
Conservation
The ranch practices sustainable land management to protect native plants and wildlife, promoting responsible outdoor recreation.
MacDonald's Ranch
Ride through the serene Arizona desert then savor a delicious sunset dinner by the bonfire. Experience this unique horseback adventure and cookout in Scottsdale today.
MacDonald's Ranch in Scottsdale, Arizona offers family-friendly outdoor evening experiences that blend horseback riding, scenic hayrides, and ranch-style cookouts. Guests can choose a 30-minute horse-drawn hayride followed by a sunset dinner with options including steak, chicken, or a vegetarian entrée, and finish the evening around a cozy bonfire with s'mores. Alternatively, visitors can opt for a guided horseback ride that ends with a similar sunset cookout featuring choices like steak or stuffed bell peppers, accompanied by sides and s'mores by the fire.
Both experiences are designed to provide memorable outings for all ages, with an emphasis on sharing meals and time outdoors in a ranch setting. The ranch's offerings focus on straightforward, well-paced activities: a guided ride or hayride, then a relaxed dinner at sunset, then a bonfire dessert. Menus list clear entrée choices so guests can select meals that suit their preferences. Located near Scottsdale, these experiences appeal to families, couples, and groups seeking a casual western-style evening without complex logistics.
Reservations are commonly used to secure space for the scheduled evenings. Descriptions and summaries for each trip provide concrete details about ride type, dinner options, and the inclusion of s'mores, helping guests set expectations before arrival. Trip summaries specify entrée choices, ride format, and the inclusion of a bonfire and s'mores, giving families clear information for comfortably planning a relaxed evening at the ranch.
Location
Scottsdale, AZ
Desert ranch setting near Scottsdale
Hayride Length
30 minutes
Horse-drawn scenic ride
Family Friendly
All ages
Suitable for kids and adults
Evening Cookouts
Sunset dinners
Meals with bonfire and s'mores
Book the Hayride or Horseback Cookout to secure a guided ride, chosen entrée, and an evening bonfire with s'mores.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Protect your feet during the horseback ride with sturdy, closed-toe shoes such as boots or sneakers.
Bring sunscreen and a hat
Arizona sun can be intense, even in the evening, so protect your skin with SPF and a wide-brimmed hat.
Stay hydrated
Carry water and drink regularly to stay hydrated in the arid desert climate.
Notify of dietary restrictions
Inform MacDonald's Ranch in advance if you have food allergies or special dietary needs for your cookout meal.
Closed-toe riding boots or sturdy shoes
Protects feet and offers stability during the horseback ride.
Lightweight jacket or layers
Keeps you warm during cooler desert evenings.
fall
Sunscreen
Protects skin from Arizona’s strong sun rays throughout the ride.
spring
Wide-brimmed hat
Provides shade and sun protection during warmer daylight hours.
summer