Exploring Yellowstone Park on a horse is an authentic way to enjoy its gorgeous wilderness. There are lots of companies that offer camping and equestrian excursions around the park, with all the necessary gear and even food provided. They will help you select the best horse according to your riding skills, and even if you have never ridden before, you will be taken care of.
Cowboys will escort you to the most remote and interesting spots. You can choose to have a one or two-hour trip or enjoy a full-day riding with overnight camping. You can't go to the front country campgrounds, but there are several backcountry campsites to stay at with horses.
These rides are offered from May through October. But riding at night is forbidden till the 1st of July due to the wet trail. The equestrian season actually starts with an annual horse drive. This is a unique event that gathers all the ranch stuff, who ride 100 horses along the streets of Gardiner and back to the ranch.
Practical info
What is the best time of the year to go horseback riding in Yellowstone National Park?
Yellowstone National Park offers the best horseback riding experience between April and October, when the weather is stable and the trails are accessible. Visitors should note that night riding is prohibited until July 1st due to wet trails and that the ideal months for horseback riding are May to October. Show more
Where can visitors camp with their horses in Yellowstone National Park?
Horseback riders in Yellowstone National Park can camp at several backcountry sites. However, front country campgrounds don't allow horses. Visitors must reserve backcountry campsites, which are often in high demand, and abide by park guidelines such as proper waste disposal and keeping a safe distance from wildlife. Show more
How skilled at riding do visitors need to be to go on a horseback riding trip in Yellowstone National Park?
Visitors don't need horseback riding experience to enjoy a trip in Yellowstone National Park. Tour companies offer horses suitable for riders of any level and knowledgeable guides. Beginners may want to start with shorter trips and should wear appropriate clothing and follow guides' instructions for maximum safety. Show more
When is it allowed to ride horses at night in Yellowstone National Park?
Horseback riding at night is allowed in Yellowstone National Park starting on July 1st. The wet trails are more challenging to navigate before this date. The trail is dryer from July to October, making this the best time to go night riding. Visitors should confirm with their tour company that night riding is available during their trip. Show more
Can visitors participate in the annual horse drive event in Yellowstone National Park?
Yellowstone National Park's annual horse drive event is open to visitors. The event marks the start of the equestrian season and entails the ranch staff riding 100 horses through Gardiner and back to the ranch. This unique cultural event and the beauty of the surroundings make it an excellent opportunity to ride horseback in the park between May and October. Show more
