Palm Springs Horseback Adventures

Want to experience your vacation on four legs rather than two? From traditional trail rides to regal displays of horsemanship, Palm Springs is the place to saddle up.

Flanked by major US cities such as Los Angeles and San Diego, Palm Springs has long been a glittering and easily accessible escape. It may be famous for its glamorous residents, midcentury style and vibrant art scene, but the true star of this town is its breathtaking natural landscape. And one of the most memorable ways to see this countryside is with a trusty steed.

There's something for every equine lover, even those who prefer their feet firmly on the ground. Canter through canyons, camp under the stars with your four-legged friend, try horse therapy or enjoy some bubbly and a picnic while watching the polo. Wandering off the beaten track has never been so beautiful, so dust off your boots and take the reigns to see what the desert really has to offer.

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Natural wonders

  • Discover over 250 miles of horse trails in the otherworldly terrain of Joshua Tree National Park.
  • Have Smoke Tree Stables guide you and your pony through Indian Canyons and host your custom picnic lunch or cookout.
  • Reward yourself after a ride from CottonWood Canyon Ranch with a vista of San Gorgonio Mountain.

Image: Tourism Media

Stars and Sites

  • Riding under the sun is great, but there's just as much to enjoy at night on a full moon ride with Coyote Ridge Stable.
  • A private moonlit stroll follows a sumptuous barbecue dinner at Crazy Horse Ranch.
  • See the sky lit up when staying overnight at one of the many working ranches. There's even room for your horse at Ryan and Black Rock campgrounds in Joshua Tree National Park.

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Learn and Love

  • Take in the San Jacinto Mountains while visiting Living Free Animal Sanctuary and its rescued horses and animal friends.
  • At Smoke Tree Stables, equine-facilitated psychotherapy can improve self-esteem and mindfulness.
  • Not ready to ride into the sunset? Learn the basics of horse riding at one of the many camps and riding schools.

Image: Tourism Media

A Spectacular Spectator Sport

  • Empire Polo Club invites you to enjoy polo and a picnic, including the traditional halftime divot stomp.
  • The stakes are high at the HITS Desert Horse Show with prizes totaling close to $3 million.
  • Palm Springs Historical Society offers events at a local ranch, where you can experience all the atmosphere without the stirrups.

Created in partnership with Visit Greater Palm Springs