Just 17 miles from Steamboat Springs, Saddleback Ranch invites you to taste Colorado the way four generations of the Iacovetto family live it—on horseback, atop a snowmobile, or gathered around a mountain meadow picnic. Their 8,00...
Travelers consistently rave about the quality of horses here, noting they're well-cared for, lively, and matched thoughtfully to each rider's experience level. This isn't a nose-to-tail plodding experience with tired animals. The horses have personality and energy, which experienced riders especially appreciate, while beginners praise how safe and comfortable the staff makes them feel. The two-hour rides wind through stunning mountain scenery with creek crossings and vista points perfect for photos. The guides, particularly Lily and McCartney, earn glowing praise for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and relaxed approach. They share history about the area and ranch while keeping the atmosphere fun and unpressured. The ranch sits just 15 minutes from Steamboat and offers rides year-round, including specialty options like cattle drives and picnic rides. Staff show genuine flexibility too, working with last-minute bookings and weather changes. Multiple visitors mention returning for second rides during the same trip, which speaks volumes about the experience.
Highly recommend Saddleback Ranch for trail riding in the summer. I was very impressed with the friendliness of the team, clear riding instructions and wonderful tour guide, Lilly! There were 9 people signed up for the 2-hour photo trail ride and they split us into two smaller groups, which I really appreciated - this meant we only had our family of 4 with our guide, which was great! The trail was going up a winding trail up a mountain and then winding down and separate path to go back. We walked through a creek for the horses to drink on the way there and back. There was also a beautiful vista spot at the top where our guide offered to take pictures of us all with the beautiful scenery. Lilly told us a lot about the ranch and how well the horses are taken care of. There were cold drinks (for free) waiting for us when we got back. We made sure to tip our guide well (in cash) and recommend others are prepared to do the same. THANK YOU!
Missy Voronyak
August 13, 2025
Highly recommend Saddleback Ranch for trail riding in the summer. I was very impressed with the friendliness of the team, clear riding instructions and wonderful tour guide, Lilly! There were 9 people signed up for the 2-hour photo trail ride and they split us into two smaller groups, which I really appreciated - this meant we only had our family of 4 with our guide, which was great! The trail was going up a winding trail up a mountain and then winding down and separate path to go back. We walked through a creek for the horses to drink on the way there and back. There was also a beautiful vista spot at the top where our guide offered to take pictures of us all with the beautiful scenery. Lilly told us a lot about the ranch and how well the horses are taken care of. There were cold drinks (for free) waiting for us when we got back. We made sure to tip our guide well (in cash) and recommend others are prepared to do the same. THANK YOU!
Missy Voronyak
August 13, 2025
