Experience the magic of a Colorado sunset with a horseback ride through the high desert at Elk Mountain Ranch. Discover sandstone tinajas, enjoy panoramic views, and create lasting memories amid stunning natural scenery.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in general good health; no prior riding experience needed.
Wildlife
History
The high desert has been home to Native tribes for centuries, and sandstone formations like the tinaja were historically water sources for early explorers.
Conservation
Elk Mountain Ranch emphasizes Leave No Trace principles and supports local conservation efforts to preserve the Desert landscape.
Elk Mountain Ranch
Experience the magic of a Colorado sunset with a horseback ride through the high desert at Elk Mountain Ranch. Discover sandstone tinajas, enjoy panoramic views, and create lasting memories amid stunning natural scenery.
Elk Mountain Ranch is a horseback riding outfitter based in Moab, Utah, offering guided equestrian experiences that showcase high desert landscapes and regional history. The ranch operates several distinct rides designed for different interests and abilities: the 7 Mile Equestrian Canyon is a 2.5-hour ride through a secluded canyon near Moab that highlights early Native American history; Cameo Cliffs is a family-friendly 3-hour sunset ride across tall grass and sage to a sandstone tinaja with a picnic stop and dramatic overlooks; LaSal Oasis Loop follows the historic Old Spanish Trail from desert terrain into a serene oasis, is suitable for young riders, and is available year-round.
Each trip emphasizes outdoor immersion, scenic viewpoints, and accessible saddle time. Riders encounter wildlife and geologic features unique to the Moab area while traveling on comfortable horses. Trip formats include a picnic option on Cameo Cliffs and interpretive elements about local history on the 7 Mile Equestrian Canyon and LaSal Oasis Loop.
Booking information, exact meeting locations, group size limits, and pricing are provided by Elk Mountain Ranch at reservation time. Guests should review trip descriptions for duration, suitability, and seasonal availability before reserving. Elk Mountain Ranch’s offerings provide a way to experience Moab’s desert scenery on horseback while following established trail routes and highlighting cultural and natural points of interest.
Rides can include stops for refreshments, short climbs for viewpoints, and close encounters with local flora. The ranch’s routes traverse sandstone formations, sagebrush, and tall grasses characteristic of the Moab high desert scenery.
Location
Moab, UT
Base for high desert rides
Tours Offered
3 routes
Canyon, cliffs, oasis
Durations
2.5–3 hrs
Set ride lengths
Family Friendly
Yes
Young riders welcome
Select the 7 Mile Equestrian Canyon, Cameo Cliffs, or LaSal Oasis Loop and secure a guided horseback experience in Moab — check availability at booking.
Bring sunscreen and water
Protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated during the ride.
Wear comfortable footwear
Sturdy shoes are recommended for mounting and dismounting horses.
Arrive early for safety briefing
Join the initial briefing to understand the route and safety tips.
Photograph at sunset
Capture the sandstone basin and desert views during the golden hour.
Hat or cap
Protects your face from sun during the ride.
summer
Sunglasses
Shields your eyes from glare and dust.
summer
Light layers
Dress in layers to stay comfortable as temperatures change.
spring;fall
Closed-toe shoes
Necessary for safety and comfort while riding.