Adventure Brief
Enjoy a magical 45-minute horse-drawn sleigh ride in snowy Durango, Colorado. Sip hot chocolate and take in stunning mountain views perfect for families and photo enthusiasts.
45 minutes
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Enjoy a magical 45-minute horse-drawn sleigh ride in snowy Durango, Colorado. Sip hot chocolate and take in stunning mountain views perfect for families and photo enthusiasts.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
45 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the ride requires minimal physical activity.
Wildlife
History
Trail Rides at Bears Ranch reflect Colorado's long-standing tradition of horse-powered winter travel, echoing the region's early mountain settlement days.
Conservation
The ranch upholds environmentally friendly practices to minimize trail impact and protect native wildlife habitats throughout the year.
Trail Rides at Bears Ranch
Enjoy a magical 45-minute horse-drawn sleigh ride in snowy Durango, Colorado. Sip hot chocolate and take in stunning mountain views perfect for families and photo enthusiasts.
Trail Rides at Bears Ranch offers guided sleigh and horseback experiences in Durango, Colorado. Located near scenic landmarks such as Engineer Mountain, Haviland Lake and the Hermosa Cliffs, Bears Ranch presents options for families, beginners and experienced riders. Rides include 45-minute horse-drawn sleighs with hot chocolate and blankets, private 45-minute sleighs for up to four people, one-hour beginner-friendly rides, and private one- and two-hour options that allow groups to set their own pace.
Trail Rides at Bears Ranch features intermediate and advanced routes as well: the Castle Rock Ride is a three-hour mountain journey to Castle Rock with views of the Twilight Mountains and Hermosa Valley; the Miners Trace Ride follows the Chris Park trail systems for 2.5–3 hours and highlights local history; and the Special Ride offers a two-hour experience with light trotting and loping for seasoned riders. Two-hour and one-hour experiences through forested trails provide ample photo opportunities and Alpine views of the San Juan Mountains.
All outings emphasize safety and a guided approach—sleigh rides are led by a sleigh driver and horseback rides are conducted on established trails suitable to the listed skill levels. Private rides provide intimate alternatives for couples or small groups. Visitors to Bears Ranch can expect scenic mountain vistas, structured ride durations, and a range of options from family-friendly sleighs to challenging multi-hour mountain rides. Many rides offer picturesque photo opportunities, and winter sleighs include blankets and hot chocolate for cozy comfort during colder conditions. Suitable for families and small private groups alike.
Location
Durango, CO
Scenic rides near Engineer Mountain
Tours Offered
9
Sleighs and horseback rides available
Family Friendly
All Ages
Options for beginners and families
Trip Lengths
45–180 min
From 45-minute sleighs to 3-hour rides
Reserve a sleigh or horseback experience in Durango — choose family-friendly tours, private rides, or multi-hour mountain adventures and secure a scenic outdoor outing.
Dress in Warm Layers
Temperatures can drop quickly, so wearing insulated layers helps keep you comfortable throughout the ride.
Bring a Camera
Don't forget your camera or smartphone to capture the scenic views of Engineer Mountain and Haviland Lake.
Arrive Early
Arrive 15 minutes before departure to get settled and hear any important safety instructions.
Watch Your Step
Paths may be icy or snowy when boarding and disembarking, so take care when stepping on and off the sleigh.
Insulated Winter Jacket
Keeps you warm against cold temperatures during the sleigh ride.
winter
Warm Gloves
Protects your hands from frostbite and keeps them comfortable.
winter
Thermal Socks
Helps prevent cold feet throughout the snowy adventure.
winter
Camera or Smartphone
Essential for capturing stunning views and memories along the ride.