Horses, Trail Rides, and Wide Open Spaces

Located just west of Loveland, Colorado, (and an easy drive from Fort Collins and Greeley), Sylvan Dale offers horseback rides through gentle terrain to extended climbing rides with ridge-top views. Our 3,200 acres offer a “don’t fence me in” riding experience for all ages and abilities. Head up Sulzer Gulch shaded by cottonwoods; explore the old wagon trails on Alexander Mountain; climb the rocky slopes of Eagle Ridge; ride across the meadows on Green Ridge; or catch the breathtaking view from the Rim Ride.

Trail rides are offered year ‘round, weather depending. During the summer season (June-August), reservations are limited to weekends only. During the winter months (December-March), reservations are limited to 1 hour & 1.5 hour rides only.
Call to inquire - (970) 667-3915 - or book online below!

For your safety, all rides are guided by a qualified wrangler and geared to the least experienced rider. For our day visitors, rides are at a walking pace, in a single file line. If the weather is inclement (rain, snow, mud), rides may be limited to the dirt roads due to unsafe trail conditions. Looking for more of an adventure? Join us for a vacation week which includes daily riding lessons, twice a day trail rides, cattle work, and more!

Please note - All Trail Riding guests must check-in at the Horsebarn, the first building on ranch, next to the large outdoor arena and the barn with a sign that says “horseback adventures”. If you drive over the bridge, you need to turn around and go back. There are no horses at the main office. Riding helmets are available for use. Bicycle helmets are not approved for horseback riding!

Please note - The recent increase in our riding rates reflects our increased overall expenses. Hay, labor, insurance, and vet care have risen considerably.  Having checked with other riding stables in the area we find that our prices are now competitive. We will continue to offer you a first class riding experience with qualified wranglers and reliable mounts. Thank you for choosing to ride the trail with us!

If you must cancel your ride, please give us a 24-hour notice. If a cancellation occurs day of the ride, there will be a 50% fee. You are always welcome to reschedule your ride, but you must also notify us of any changes 24 hours in advance. 🤠

Western Riding Instruction - 2025 Riding Programs

• 6-Lesson Package – $330/student (group lessons only - no privates available)

• Spring Session: SOLD OUT - *April 12th - May 25th (We will have class on Easter Sunday and Mother’s Day)

• Fall Session: *September 13th – November 9th (No Classes September 27th & 28th, due to on-ranch guests)

• Classes are held on Saturdays/Sundays, by advance reservation

Programs Include:

• Basic western horsemanship and riding instruction

• Hands-on ground work and riding skills to be applied in the arena and on the trail

• Graduation Trail Ride for the last session

*Riding instruction available during spring and fall only. Session dates reflect 7-8 weeks, to cover makeup classes and/or weather cancellations. Please contact Karen Burbank, Head Riding Instructor, at karenb@sylvandale.com for more information on lessons only. Trail Rides can be booked online, or through the front desk receptionists.

Riding Safety

We are certified through the Dude Ranchers’ Association Horse Safety Program. We also belong to the American Quarter Horse Association as well as the Colorado Dude and Guest Ranch Association. We’re in good company … and so are you!

• All riding adventures will be accompanied by a Sylvan Dale Ranch wrangler

• Trail riders must be at least 7 years old

• Weight limit — 220 lbs.

Ready to Get Started?

Contact us for more information - 970-667-3915 or email ranch@sylvandale.com. Or you can simply book online!

• Book ahead for reservations

• Wear long pants, boots, and a hat

• Check in at the Horsebarn 15 minutes before departure to sign a waiver

• Have a great ride!