Vail Stables

The horses here know their stuff, and so do the guides. Pedro, Chloe, Olivia, and the other staff members consistently earn praise for being friendly, patient, and excellent at making nervous or first-time riders feel completely at ease. The owner Kim gets special mentions for her warmth and attention to detail. Families particularly appreciate how accommodating they are with young children (they take kids as young as 5), and the horses like Chester, Twister, and even Sassy are well-trained and perfectly matched to riders' experience levels. The trail rides through the "Enchanted Forest" are genuinely breathtaking, especially during fall when the aspens are changing colors. Guides thoughtfully stop for photos and keep safety as a top priority throughout the experience. A couple of reviewers wished they'd had more time to connect with their horses before and after rides, noting the operation can feel a bit rushed during busy periods with little opportunity for petting or bonding. Beyond horseback riding, the goat happy hour and goat yoga get enthusiastic mentions as fun, relaxed activities with stunning mountain views.