For an authentic, old-fashioned Western experience, take in the red-rock desert from a horse and join a guided ride near Moab.

Professor Valley along the Colorado River has been home to historic cattle ranches, some of which are now guest resorts and outfitting establishments. Ride some of the same trails that John Wayne rode while he made his famous Western movies, and see the vistas that scores of other film stars have used in their big screen and television hits.

Giddy Up!

Rides are weather dependent. Always confirm that rides are being offered when you plan to visit, and check cancellation policies. Plan on plenty of time to arrive before your ride. You also want time to say hello to your horse.

Beginners are welcome. Adults should accompany minors. Best to check for any specific policies. Rides and length of ride change from season to season to take advantage of ideal temperatures.

Dress the Part

Riding attire of long pants and sturdy shoes (no sandals) is required. Bring a water bottle and a raincoat or warming layer if you plan to ride when the weather is a bit cooler.

The outfitters will provide saddle bags to store a few things. A ball cap is a good idea and can be worn under a helmet.

Go With the Pros

Red Cliffs Ranch is located at mile marker 14 on Utah Scenic Byway 128 at Red Cliffs Lodge. Hwy 128 is a beautiful drive with awe-inspiring curves and cliffs along the Colorado River. The Ranch offers rides March through November and uses a herd of gentle quarter horses.

Their tours explore a trail that winds its way high along a sandstone canyon, providing majestic views of the famous Castle Rock and the La Sal Mountains before returning along Castle Creek in the cool shade of creekside trees.

Rides are 90 minutes to three hours in the saddle. Custom rides available.

They will take young riders ages 10 and up accompanied by an adult. For adults, the weight limit is 220lbs.

435-259-2002, RedCliffsLodge.com.

Stable With a View

If you are traveling with your horse, consider staying at Red Cliffs Lodge. They will board your horse, hay included.

You can stay in the comfort of one of their rooms or cabins while your horse is swapping stories with the ranch horses. Call the lodge for details. 435-259-2002.

Brought Your Own Horse?

Red Cliffs Ranch offers horse boarding and occasional training clinics. Call for more details. 435-259-2002.

There are numerous riding options to explore. Be certain to bring certified weed-free hay if you plan to ride in a national park and water for your animal (as well as water for yourself), along with a good map­—buy one at the Moab Information Center.

In order to help protect fragile desert resources, it is best to keep equines on existing paths. Horses may drink out of creeks and rivers, but are not allowed to be picketed for a lengthy duration within 200ft of shorelines. Pick up or scatter manure.

Stay alert around motorized users. Cell service is spotty in the area so be certain of the safety of yourself and your animal at all times.

Pack and saddle horses are allowed at any BLM campground. The Lone Mesa, Ken’s Lake, and Upper Onion Creek Campgrounds are more suitable for horses and trailers. For more info on BLM land use, call 435-259-2100.

All trails on U.S. Forest Service land are open to horse use. Camping with horses in developed campgrounds or at trailheads is not permitted.

For more information, call USFS Moab District Ranger Office at 435-259-7155.