Explore ancient Anasazi cliff dwellings and spot wild horses on a private horseback ride through Ute Tribal Park. Enjoy lunch inside a historic site and soak in Colorado’s rich cultural landscape.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness with the ability to sit comfortably on horseback and walk short distances on uneven ground.
Wildlife
History
The area explores ancestral Anasazi cliff dwellings dating back to the 12th century, offering rich insight into early southwestern Native American life.
Conservation
Mesa Verde Stables promotes low-impact riding practices to protect fragile archaeological sites and local ecosystems.
Mesa Verde Stables
Explore ancient Anasazi cliff dwellings and spot wild horses on a private horseback ride through Ute Tribal Park. Enjoy lunch inside a historic site and soak in Colorado’s rich cultural landscape.
Mesa Verde Stables is a horseback-riding outfitter located in Mancos, Colorado that offers multi-hour trail rides through the region's mountain landscapes and historic areas.
The operation runs two primary trips: the Echo Basin Ride, a 3–5 hour mountain route featuring tall pines, creeks, views of Shark’s Tooth Peak, and a mid-ride lunch stop; and the Tribal Park Ride, a 3–5 hour excursion into the Ute Tribal Park that visits a 12th-century Anasazi cliff dwelling with lunch inside the historic Sandal House.
Rides are presented as multi-hour outings that combine outdoor scenery with stops at cultural and natural highlights. The Echo Basin Ride is described for riders with some prior horseback experience. The Tribal Park Ride includes opportunities to observe wild horses and access a documented ancestral site.
Located in the Mancos valley of southwestern Colorado, Mesa Verde Stables provides access to local trails and archaeological points of interest from a stable base in Mancos. Trip summaries include stated durations and listed on-trail meals. Guests are advised to review trip summaries and any posted requirements before booking to ensure a suitable match with experience level and expectations. Mesa Verde Stables represents a straightforward horseback riding option for visitors seeking scenic mountain trails and visits to regional historic and natural landmarks.
Location
Mancos, CO
Base of operations in southwestern Colorado
Typical Duration
3–5 hours
Multi-hour trail rides with lunch included
Scenic Highlights
Shark’s Tooth Peak
Mountain views and pine forest terrain
Signature Trips
2 rides
Echo Basin and Tribal Park experiences
Select the Echo Basin or Tribal Park Ride and confirm availability, trip details, and participant requirements before booking.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes
Proper footwear provides comfort and protection while riding and walking near uneven trail areas.
Bring water and sun protection
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from sun exposure, especially during summer rides.
Be prepared for moderate terrain
The trail includes some rocky and uneven surfaces, so basic riding flexibility is helpful.
Respect wildlife and cultural sites
Observe animals from a distance and follow guide instructions to preserve sacred landmarks.
Closed-toe riding boots
Protect your feet during the ride and provide good grip on the stirrups.
Wide-brim sun hat
Shields your face and neck from strong sun rays during open trail sections.
summer
Layered clothing
Allows you to adjust comfortably to changing temperatures throughout the day.
Reusable water bottle
Keep hydrated during the ride, especially when temperatures rise.