Horseback riding in the Santa Fe area offers access to a landscape of pinon-juniper foothills, ponderosa pine forests, and sweeping high-desert panoramas unique to the Sangre de Cristo piedmont of northern New Mexico. At elevations between 7,000 and 8,500 feet, the trails around Santa Fe are cooler than the lower desert even in summer, creating comfortable riding conditions for most of the year. Operators including Bishop's Lodge and New Wave Rafting and Riding run guided trail rides departing from ranches within a 30–45 minute drive of the Santa Fe Plaza.
Bishop's Lodge, a historic resort situated in the foothills north of Santa Fe in the village of Tesuque, has offered equestrian programs to guests and non-guests for decades. Its riding program includes one- to two-hour guided scenic trail rides through pinon and sage terrain with views toward the Jemez Mountains and Taos plateau. Non-guests can join scheduled rides that typically run in the morning hours; reservations are required. The adjacent Santa Fe National Forest provides additional riding terrain for longer excursions.
Trail rides are structured as guided, pace-controlled experiences with a wrangler leading the group. Participants do not need prior riding experience; the horses used are experienced trail horses trained for group rides with mixed-ability riders. Operators provide all tack, and horses are matched to riders by size and weight. Closed-toe shoes are strictly required; boots with a heel are ideal. Long pants are strongly recommended to prevent saddle chafing.
Age and weight restrictions vary by operator but typically require riders to be at least 6 years old and weigh between 60 and 250 pounds. Helmets are available and encouraged; some operators now require them for all riders. Half-day rides cost approximately $80–$125 per person; full-day rides with a picnic lunch run $150–$200. Advance booking is necessary for summer and fall dates, and Santa Fe's peak tourism season from July through August can result in limited availability without 1–2 weeks' notice.
Activity facts
- Where
- Santa Fe foothills and Sangre de Cristo piedmont, New Mexico
- Duration
- 2-4 hours
Equipment
- Closed-toe shoes required (boots preferred)
- Long pants recommended
- Hat
- Sunscreen
Location
New Wave Rafting and Riding, 107 Washington Ave, Santa Fe, NM 87501 (booking office); ranch 30 min from Santa Fe
35.6882, -105.9390 View on map
Highlights
- Ride guided trails through pinon-juniper foothills and ponderosa pine forest with views of the Sangre de Cristo and Jemez ranges
- No prior riding experience required—experienced trail horses are matched to all ability levels by wranglers
- Access historic Bishop's Lodge equestrian programs in the Tesuque foothills north of Santa Fe
- Enjoy rides at 7,000–8,500 feet elevation where temperatures remain cooler than the lower desert even in summer
- Explore terrain within or adjacent to Santa Fe National Forest on half-day and full-day guided excursions
Tips for visiting
- Book at least 1–2 weeks in advance during summer—July and August are Santa Fe's busiest visitor months
- Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes with a heel; sandals and shorts will not be permitted on any ride
- Inform the operator of any rider weight near the 250-lb limit at time of booking, not on the day of the ride
- Sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat are essential at 7,000+ feet elevation where UV intensity is significantly higher than at sea level
- Morning rides are cooler and generally more pleasant than afternoon rides; afternoon monsoon storms are possible in July–August
Frequently asked questions
Do riders need prior experience to join a trail ride?
No prior experience is required. Trail rides are led by a wrangler at a walking or gentle trotting pace suitable for first-time riders. Participants receive a brief orientation before mounting.
What is the weight limit for riders?
Most Santa Fe area operators set a maximum of 250 lbs (113 kg) per rider. Notify the operator at time of booking rather than on the day of the ride if this is a concern.
Are helmets required?
Helmet requirements vary by operator. Bishop's Lodge provides and recommends helmets; confirm the current policy when booking. Riders under 18 are generally required to wear a helmet regardless of operator policy.
Is this activity suitable for children?
Most operators accept children aged 6 and older. Younger children may be led by a wrangler on a lead rope on a gentle horse. Confirm minimum age requirements directly with the operator when booking.
What is the best time of year to ride near Santa Fe?
May, June, September, and October offer the most comfortable weather. July and August are warm and busy; afternoon monsoon storms can interrupt rides. Winter rides are possible on mild days but availability is reduced.