Adventure Brief
Saddle up for guided horseback rides through Poway’s scenic trails with San Diego Trail Company. Enjoy safe, walk-only rides and a delicious BBQ lunch afterward.
2–3 hours
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Saddle up for guided horseback rides through Poway’s scenic trails with San Diego Trail Company. Enjoy safe, walk-only rides and a delicious BBQ lunch afterward.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; a basic level of balance and comfort with horses is helpful.
Wildlife
History
Poway is known as 'The City in the Country' and has a ranching heritage dating back to the late 1800s.
Conservation
San Diego Trail Company follows sustainable trail practices to minimize erosion and preserve native habitats.
San Diego Trail Company
Saddle up for guided horseback rides through Poway’s scenic trails with San Diego Trail Company. Enjoy safe, walk-only rides and a delicious BBQ lunch afterward.
San Diego Trail Company is a family-owned equestrian center located in Poway, California, offering guided trail rides, summer camps, lessons, photo shoots, and special events. Founded to share safe, beginner-friendly horseback experiences, the ranch serves riders of all ages with professional instruction and well-maintained horses. Trail Rides run at a walking pace for safety and comfort, and many rides include a BBQ lunch to complete the outing. Summer Camps provide week-long programming focused on horsemanship, riding basics, games, and arts and crafts to build confidence and practical skills.
Lessons through Equine Studies of San Diego teach essential horsemanship and riding fundamentals for students ages six and up, emphasizing safety, trust, and clear communication between rider and horse. Cowboy Spirit 101 offers a two-day beginner-friendly introduction to cowboy culture, grooming, and riding skills in a hands-on format. Birthday party packages combine short trail rides with grooming lessons and space for celebrations, tailored to children aged seven and up. Photo shoot sessions allow visitors to bring a photographer and capture portraits against a scenic ranch backdrop with trained horses.
Safety protocols, professional instruction, and a focus on horse welfare underpin all programming. The facility prioritizes rider comfort by maintaining a walking-only pace on group trail rides and delivering individualized attention during lessons and camps. San Diego Trail Company’s combination of experienced staff, structured programming, and a picturesque Poway setting creates reliable, memorable equestrian experiences for families and beginners. Advance reservations are recommended for popular dates and private events to ensure availability today.
Tours Offered
6 experiences
Trail rides, camps, lessons, parties, shoots
Age Range
Ages 6+
Lessons start at age six
Pace & Format
Walking-only rides
Safer walking pace for group rides
Photo Shoots
Custom sessions
Bring your own photographer
Reserve a trail ride, camp, lesson, party, or photo session — reservations recommended for popular dates.
Schedule Morning Rides
Morning temperatures are cooler and wildlife is more active, making early rides more enjoyable.
Wear Closed-Toe Shoes
Proper footwear ensures safety and comfort while mounted and walking around the stables.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water to stay refreshed, especially during warmer months on exposed trails.
Inform About Riding Experience
Let guides know your skill level so they can match you with the right horse and ensure a great ride.
Helmet
Protects your head during horseback riding, standard safety practice.
Sunscreen
Essential for sun protection under Southern California’s sunny skies.
summer
Long Pants
Prevents chafing and provides comfort during rides.
Water Bottle
Helps maintain hydration during and after the ride.
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