Horseback Riding in Steamboat Springs and Northwest Colorado

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Horseback Riding

Because of the ranches surrounding the Yampa and Elk rivers, Steamboat is full of real cowboys as well as visitors trying to act the part. Horseback riding is one of the most popular pastimes here, with good reason: Seeing the area on horseback is not only easier on the legs, but it also allows riders to get deeper into the backcountry -- which is crisscrossed by a web of deer and elk trails -- and sometimes closer to wildlife than is possible on foot. Riding, however, isn't for everyone. There's usually a personal weight limit of 250 pounds, and children need to be able to handle their own mount. If you've never ridden a horse before, book a short test ride first. Allergies and sore muscles can turn a dream ride into an epic journey. Riding, instruction, and extended pack trips are offered at a number of ranches in the area, although some may require a minimum stay of a week.

One facility that has the full gamut of activities, from hour-long tours to journeys lasting several days, is Del's Triangle 3 Ranch (Box 893, Clark, 80428. 970/879-3495. www.steamboathorses.com). It's about 20 mi north of Steamboat via Highway 129. Sombrero Ranch (835 River Rd. 970/879-2306. www.sombrero.com/steamboatsprings) is right in town and has one-hour guided tours perfect for novices. Every Friday and Saturday evening in summer, rodeos are held at the Howelsen Rodeo Grounds (5th St. and Howelsen Pkwy. 970/879-1818).