To appreciate the rugged grandeur of the Sierras in a way similar to explorers in the 19th century, try horseback riding in Yosemite. The Yosemite Valley is completely encircled by bridle paths, and these trails bring you into contact with the natural world in a way you can’t otherwise experience.

There are riding adventures for everyone. Children can ride ponies with guided leads. Experienced teens and adults can arrange for multi-hour rides into various areas of the park, and even take multi-day camp trips into the further reaches of the Sierras! Visitors of all ages and experience levels will enjoy the valley or climb into the mountains with your new equine friends, and appreciate the beauty of the Yosemite’s forests and streams in a whole new way!

Park Service Horse Facilities

Two-hour, four-hour, and all-day rides are available at the stables in Yosemite Valley, Wawona, and Tuolumne Meadows. Children must be at least 7 years old and 44" tall.  Maximum weight is 225 lbs. 

Rates:

Two-hour rides........................................ $35.00
(Depart several times daily.)

Half-day rides.......................................... $46.00
(Depart at 8:00 A.M. and 1:00 P.M.)

All-day rides........................................... $70.00
(Available by advance arrangement, minimum 3 people)

For reservations, call:

• Valley Stables -- (209) 372-8326
• Tuolumne Meadows Stables -- (209) 372-8427
• Wawona Stables -- (209) 375-6502

High Sierra Camp Saddle Trips

For a more thorough backcountry experience, join one of this company's organized saddle trips -- with mules. 4-6 day treks leave from Tuolumne Stables and are led by experienced guide/packers who handle the details. They pack all the gear, feed and care for the stock and provide park pointers and lore along the way.

The maximum weight limit is 225 pounds per saddle (including rider). Personal necessities (15 pound limit per person) are carried on a pack mule.  These trips are usually available July-September when weather and trail conditions permit.

Rates:

• Four-day trip: $555.60
• Five-day trip: $646.80
• Six-day trip: $876.00

You can also arrange for customized trips. For information, contact the Yosemite Stables at (209) 372-8348.

Yosemite Trails

One Hour Rides -- $30.00
Departs at: 8:30 a.m. -- 9:45 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:45 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. This hour-long ride follows a beautiful scenic loop in the Sierra National Forest where you will see mother nature at her best.

Two Hour Rides -- $45.00
Departs at: 4:00 p.m. This ride is for visitors who would like to spend a little more time in the saddle and experience some beautiful views.

Mariposa Grove Rides -- $80.00
Departs at: 12:00 p.m. and returns at approx. 5:30 p.m. For the more adventurous, Yosemite Trails offers a wonderful trail ride to the Mariposa Grove inside Yosemite National Park. This is a great way to see these fantastic 2,000 year old trees. Bring a sack lunch; long pants are highly recommended.

Lead Horses -- $20.00 for 15 minutes
For children younger than seven, Yosemite Trails offers a lead horse ride. These horses are led around the stables by one of our assistant wranglers.

Call 559-683-7611 for more information.