Start your day with a peaceful 1-hour horseback trail ride in Joshua Tree
1 Hour
1 hour trail ride
Arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled ride; late arrivals not refunded. Cancel for a gift certificate for full payment. If cancelled within 5 days of booking, $25 fee per rider if a gift certificate is not preferred. Same-day cancellations/no-shows are not refunded or accommodated.
Bring water. Wear close-toed shoes and leggings or pants, and use sun protection. Bringing carrots is recommended so you can reward your horse after the ride.
Arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled ride time unless you are asked otherwise.
Riders must be 8 years and older, and the weight limit is 240 lbs. Some riding experience is preferred for children 12 and under.
Cascade Trails Mustang Sanctiary
This sanctuary near Joshua Tree has earned an incredible reputation for its genuine, soul-nourishing experiences with rescued mustangs. Chris and Marissa run the operation with obvious dedication, and visitors consistently praise how welcoming and knowledgeable they are. The horses are gentle and well-trained, making rides suitable for complete beginners and experienced riders alike. Sunset and sunrise rides get particular love for the stunning desert views, and many guests describe the experience as life-changing or deeply grounding. Beyond riding, the property offers camping options, pony rides for kids, and chances to interact with goats, chickens, and other rescue animals. The overwhelming sentiment is that this feels less like a commercial tour and more like riding with friends who genuinely care about both their animals and guests. People appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the clear love the staff has for what they do. One reviewer did mention a safety concern during a ride, but this appears to be an isolated incident in an otherwise spotless track record. If you're looking for an authentic connection with horses in a beautiful setting, this comes highly recommended.
FANTASTIC morning ride experience for our family of 4 with kids ages 8 and 11! BTW, it was hard to find a place that would allow kids under 12 to ride. The horses were lovely and gentle and guide Julia was great at explaining the idiosyncrasies of each horse and keeping the group together. Our kids got to play with the baby goats and chickens before and after the ride. Highly recommended!
Renee Garcia
April 3, 2026
FANTASTIC morning ride experience for our family of 4 with kids ages 8 and 11! BTW, it was hard to find a place that would allow kids under 12 to ride. The horses were lovely and gentle and guide Julia was great at explaining the idiosyncrasies of each horse and keeping the group together. Our kids got to play with the baby goats and chickens before and after the ride. Highly recommended!
Renee Garcia
April 3, 2026