Do I need prior horseback riding experience to join?

No, rides are designed for all skill levels, and walking-only pace ensures a safe ride for beginners.

What should I wear on a trail ride?

Closed-toe shoes and long pants are recommended. Dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures.

Are the rides guided?

Yes, every ride is led by experienced guides familiar with the local trails and horses.

Is food provided during the trip?

A BBQ lunch is included after your ride, allowing guests to relax and enjoy local flavors.

How long do the trail rides last?

Rides typically last between 2 to 3 hours, including time for instruction and the post-ride meal.

Can children participate in these trail rides?

Children are welcome; the slow walking pace and gentle horses make this a family-friendly activity.

Horseback Trail Rides in Poway: Scenic Outdoor Adventure

Just north of San Diego, Poway offers a refreshing slice of Southern California’s natural charm, where rolling hills and oak-studded landscapes set the scene for San Diego Trail Company's horseback trail rides. This locally operated outfitter invites riders of every skill level to slow down and discover the tranquility of walking-only rides through quiet chaparral and pine groves. The gentle pace ensures safety while allowing plenty of time to appreciate native wildflowers, granite rock outcrops, and native wildlife amid the region’s distinctive Mediterranean climate.

San Diego Trail Company distinguishes itself by combining guided expertise with a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Their horses are well-trained and calm, ideal for beginners and experienced riders alike. The carefully chosen trails highlight Poway’s open spaces, offering panoramic views of nearby canyonlands and the iconic Mount Woodson distant skyline.

After the ride, guests are treated to a hearty BBQ lunch — a delightful way to savor local flavors and reflect on the adventure. This thoughtful addition transforms a ride into a full-day excursion that appeals to families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking respite from urban bustle.

Poway’s location, often referred to as “The City in the Country,” is prized for both its accessibility to the San Diego metro area and its preserved natural settings. San Diego Trail Company plays a vital role here, offering a unique way to connect with the land while keeping equestrian tradition alive. Whether a visitor is discovering horseback riding for the first time or revisiting a beloved pastime, these trail rides provide unmatched access to Southern California’s wild beauty and a memorable outdoor experience.

About San Diego Trail Company

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.