My family (2 adults and 2 boys - 9 and 11)are going to be exploring Bryce Canyon in late June. We would like to include a horseback ride. I understand that you can take a trip from Bryce Canyon Lodge inside the park or from Ruby's on a trip outside the park. Can anyone with experience tell me which they prefer or how they compare? Three of us have never ridden and one has some experience. Is one "scarier" than the other with respect to being on the edge of large drop-offs? Thanks for any help!

We've done the one in Bryce twice, not the other one. We thought it was a wonderful trip -- you'll feel like you're in an old western movie.

The second time we did it, the guy asked who had done it before. When I raised my hand he came over and asked if I was scared of heights and I said no. So they gave me this horse (mule actually) that loves to go right out on the edge. It was the joke of the trip -- the leader kept calling back for mine not to go over the edge. Otherwise it really isn't that scary, but yes some of the trails are right along edges. I don't recall anyone getting really freaked about it though.

You need absolutely no experience riding. The horses and mules will just follow each other naturally. You may be a little sore the next day however.

NeoPatrick - Do you remember the name of the company that does the rides inside Bryce? My husband and I are considering this during our visit at the end of May.

I don't know the name. I think it's the only one within the National Park. We signed up at the main Lodge.

NeoPatrick -

Thanks for the information. It sounds like a lot of fun.

The name of the company is Canyon Trail rides
http://www.onlinepages.net/canyonrides/

Thanks Anya!