Sleigh and Wagon Rides in Morgan by Thurston Farms - Salt Lake City

Sleigh and Wagon Rides in Morgan by Thurston Farms

Salt Lake Cityeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

30 minutes to 1 hour

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required.

Overview

Experience the quiet magic of winter at Thurston Farms in Morgan, Utah, where horse-drawn sleigh and wagon rides offer a timeless outdoor escape through snowy fields and pine forests. Perfect for families and anyone seeking a peaceful adventure off the beaten path.

Details

Set against the rugged backdrop of Morgan, Utah, Thurston Farms offers a classic winter experience with its signature sleigh and wagon rides that bring a timeless outdoor tradition to life. Located just a short drive from the Wasatch Front, this family-run farm delivers an authentic slice of rural mountain life, blending crisp winter air with wide-open snowy fields and evergreen stands thick with pine.

Morgan sits at the base of the Wasatch Range, known for its towering cliffs and peaks dusted with snow from late fall through early spring. Here, Thurston Farms makes the most of the season’s quiet beauty, offering visitors the chance to glide along winding trails aboard horse-drawn sleighs or wagons—a uniquely Utah take on winter recreation. The rides wind through gently rolling farmland and lightly forested hills, where frost-laden branches and snow-packed dirt paths offer a serene atmosphere for families and adventurers alike.

What makes Thurston Farms especially notable in Morgan’s outdoor scene is its dedication to maintaining a traditional, hands-on farm environment while providing a warm, welcoming gateway to winter’s slower pace. This is not just a scenic ride; it’s a throwback experience that embraces the history of frontier travel and the mountain West’s agricultural roots. Horses pulling the sleigh are well-cared-for draft breeds, accustomed to the cold and famed for their steady pace.

Kids and adults alike find it to be a memorable way to connect with the land and experience Utah’s winter landscape beyond the busy ski resorts down the road. Whether you want a family outing, a small group event, or a quiet afternoon retreat from city life, the steady clip of hooves on snow and glimpses of snowy ridges make Thurston Farms a standout in Morgan’s winter activity options.

Whether you come for the calm natural beauty or the rich heritage of mountain life, Thurston Farms’ sleigh and wagon rides offer a distinct outdoor experience that’s easy to access, deeply traditional, and rooted in the authentic Utah winter landscape.

Adventure Tips

Dress for cold, layered conditions

Temperatures can drop quickly; wear insulated layers, hats, and gloves to stay comfortable during rides.

Arrive early to secure your spot

Group tours can fill up fast on weekends and holidays, so booking ahead or arriving early is recommended.

Watch your footing on icy paths

Paths may be slippery especially near shaded forest sections; wear boots with good traction or traction devices.

Bring a camera with fast shutter

Capture clear photos of the moving sleigh and snowy landscape, especially in lower light conditions.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Quiet forest meadows along the sledding trails
  • Historic wooden fence lines dating back to early settler days

Wildlife

  • Mule deer often spotted near forest edges
  • Red-tailed hawks circling overhead

History

Morgan’s agricultural roots run deep, with Thurston Farms preserving century-old farming traditions alongside offering these seasonal rides.

Conservation

Thurston Farms emphasizes sustainable land stewardship, maintaining trails to minimize impact on local flora and wildlife habitats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Late morning for crisp lighting
Golden hour just before sunset

Best Viewpoints

  • Open fields adjacent to the farmstead
  • Edges of evergreen groves along the trails
  • Farmstead barn with sleighs

What to Photograph

Horse-drawn sleighs in motion
Snow-dusted pines and distant ridges
Close-up shots of draft horses

Recommended Gear

Insulated winter jacket

Essential

Keeps you warm during colder sleigh rides.

winter specific

Waterproof boots

Essential

Protects feet from snow and muddy conditions.

winter|spring specific

Gloves and hat

Essential

Essential for keeping extremities warm in chilly outdoor settings.

winter|fall specific

Camera or smartphone

Captures memories and scenic vistas during the ride.