Horseback Riding

It is not necessary to know how to ride before coming to the ranch. It takes but a short time to learn, and excellent instruction is provided as needed. Each person is furnished with a horse matched to his or her ability, and a comfortable western saddle. The CM has an exceptionally fine string of horses, both gentle and spirited, suitable for the beginner or the expert rider. They are well adapted to mountain terrain.

Riding is available twice a day every day except Sunday. The head wrangler does a very good job of dividing riders into small, compatible groups. You will enjoy riding in the company of experienced wranglers who are happy to share their knowledge of the history and geography of the area. Qualified riders may trot and lope with their wrangler in appropriate areas. During your stay you may want to participate in the weekly gymkhana, or join other guests for an early morning breakfast ride.

A variety of day rides with picnic lunches is part of the weekly program. You can climb to different high elevations, enjoy dramatic views and fields of alpine flowers, and have a chance to see several species of big game animals. Whiskey Mountain, adjacent to the ranch, is home to the largest herd of Big Horn sheep on the North American continent. You might take a fishing expedition on horseback up the valley, or cross the Wind River, and spend a fascinating day exploring the colorful sandstone mesas and canyons of the Badlands.