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Knob Hill Ranch offers privately guided horseback rides through Joshua Tree National Park, traversing slot canyons, dry washes, and open deserts to reveal spectacular panoramic views across the Mojave Desert. Riders of all levels ...
This is the only licensed horseback operation inside Joshua Tree National Park, and it's clear why they've earned such a stellar reputation. The horses consistently impress visitors with their calm temperaments and obvious excellent care, while the guides and wranglers bring genuine enthusiasm and deep knowledge of the area's flora, fauna, and geology. Owner Madeline gets frequent shout-outs for her warm hospitality and attention to detail, making everyone feel like valued guests rather than just customers. The riding experience itself seems magical regardless of your skill level. Complete beginners and experienced riders alike report feeling safe and comfortable on well-matched horses, with trails offering breathtaking desert scenery you simply can't access any other way. The ranch also offers special experiences beyond basic trail rides, including private sunset rides, romantic dinners, and celebration packages that reviewers describe as unforgettable. Multiple guests mention still feeling sore a couple days later from longer rides, but nobody seems to regret it. The guides handle unexpected situations (like rattlesnakes during fire season) with impressive professionalism, and little touches like retrieving a lost hat or organizing perfect proposal moments show the level of care throughout.
I proposed to my now fiancé at Knob Hill Ranch and all of the wonderful staff there made the whole evening an unforgettable experience for us both. From Madeline’s excitement from our very first phone call months before, she handled every detail and answered all of my questions with enthusiasm and excitement for our special day. She organized the private horseback ride, professional photos and private dinner which was nothing short of magical and the horses (Forest and Jack) were so calm and fun to ride. Maddie was an incredible guide for my first time riding and made the whole experience relaxed and filled with laughs. She positioned us perfectly at sunset for me to propose and was so patient while we soaked up the moment. The private dinner afterward was incredibly special with music playing, candles, and champagne - super romantic! The chef curated an amazing meal that was entirely gluten free by request. We ended the night enjoying the company of the other ranch hands around the fire with their dogs as they all shared in the excitement for us that made the evening end feeling like we were celebrating with old friends. We can’t thank everyone enough for making it a memorable start to the next chapter of our lives!
Heather Brown
October 7, 2025
I proposed to my now fiancé at Knob Hill Ranch and all of the wonderful staff there made the whole evening an unforgettable experience for us both. From Madeline’s excitement from our very first phone call months before, she handled every detail and answered all of my questions with enthusiasm and excitement for our special day. She organized the private horseback ride, professional photos and private dinner which was nothing short of magical and the horses (Forest and Jack) were so calm and fun to ride. Maddie was an incredible guide for my first time riding and made the whole experience relaxed and filled with laughs. She positioned us perfectly at sunset for me to propose and was so patient while we soaked up the moment. The private dinner afterward was incredibly special with music playing, candles, and champagne - super romantic! The chef curated an amazing meal that was entirely gluten free by request. We ended the night enjoying the company of the other ranch hands around the fire with their dogs as they all shared in the excitement for us that made the evening end feeling like we were celebrating with old friends. We can’t thank everyone enough for making it a memorable start to the next chapter of our lives!
Heather Brown
October 7, 2025
