Do I need prior horseback riding experience?

No prior experience is necessary; rides are tailored to all skill levels and guided by experienced instructors.

What should I bring on the ride?

Bring water, sun protection, and wear comfortable clothes and footwear suitable for riding.

Is the ride suitable for children?

Children over 8 years old with basic riding ability are welcome; check specific age restrictions when booking.

What if I’m afraid of horses?

Guides can accommodate nervous riders with shorter, gentle rides, and offer clear instructions to ensure comfort.

Can I ride in summer?

Yes, but it’s best to ride early in the morning or later in the day to avoid peak heat.

Are rides canceled in bad weather?

Rides may be delayed or canceled in heavy rain or lightning for safety reasons.

Horseback Riding at Knob Hill Ranch in Joshua Tree | Guided Tour | Wildlife

Nestled on the edge of Joshua Tree National Park, Knob Hill Ranch offers a one-of-a-kind horseback riding experience that captures the spirit of the Mojave Desert and its iconic landscape. The ranch’s scenic trails wind through rugged terrain, showcasing the rugged beauty of Joshua Trees, impressive rock formations, and sweeping mountain views. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a novice, Knob Hill Ranch’s rides are designed for all skill levels, with options ranging from a gentle two-hour jaunt to the more challenging five-hour Wrangler Special. This journey is more than just a ride; it’s an immersion into the desert’s wilderness, where native wildlife like bobcats and roadrunners can sometimes be spotted along the trail.

What makes this ranch stand out is its deep connection to the local landscape and history. Riders traverse historic routes used by early settlers and learn about the desert’s unique ecosystem from knowledgeable guides. The ranch’s dedication to sustainable tourism ensures that trails are maintained responsibly, preserving Joshua Tree’s fragile environment for future generations.

A typical ride passes through distinctive geological features like boulder fields and stands of Joshua Trees, some more than 300 years old. The serenity of these landscapes, combined with the gentle rhythm of horseback riding, makes for an awe-inspiring adventure. Photo opportunities abound, whether capturing the silhouette of a rider at sunset or the twisting branches of a Joshua Tree.

Perfect for visitors seeking a genuine Western experience amid striking desert scenery, Knob Hill Ranch invites you to saddle up and take part in a horseback adventure that highlights California’s desert treasures. Come for the scenery, stay for the stories, and leave with memories of a true cowboy experience in Joshua Tree.

About Knob Hill Ranch

Knob Hill Ranch is a horseback riding and equestrian experience provider located in Yucca Valley, California. The ranch operates guided trail rides, riding lessons, and specialty sessions that explore Joshua Tree National Park and the surrounding Mojave Desert. With a focus on hands-on horsemanship and outdoor adventure, Knob Hill Ranch offers experiences for beginners, families, and more experienced riders.

Trail options include the Scenic California Riding & Hiking Trail, Black Rock Canyon Loop, Short West Loop Trail Ride, and the Wrangler Special, each navigating landscapes such as Black Rock Canyon, slot canyons, and panoramic views of Mt. Gorgonio. The ranch runs one-hour, three-hour, and longer technical rides that pass through iconic Joshua Trees, Juniper, and Mojave pines.

Instructional opportunities are available through Horsemanship 101, Junior Horsemanship Experience, and personalized lesson packages led by experienced wranglers. These programs emphasize safety, riding fundamentals, and connection with horses in a controlled ranch setting.

Knob Hill Ranch also offers unique wellness-infused experiences like SOUND & HORSES, a sound healing session combining crystal bowls, chimes, and the calming presence of horses to support relaxation and meditation.

Reservations, group outings, and tailored programs can be arranged through the ranch’s Request To Ride Form. The ranch is presented on The Adventure Collective and operates in an area known for accessible equestrian trails and scenic desert terrain. Knob Hill Ranch provides a range of horseback riding experiences in Yucca Valley for guests seeking trail rides, lessons, and immersive equestrian activities. Bookings are managed via an online request form.