The trails throughout Temecula Valley Wine Country are perfect for exploration by horseback on a guided tour. This experience gives an authentic and memorable way to explore, connect with nature, and experience the natural beauty of the region. Riders can traverse vineyards and scenic trails while disconnecting from everyday life. It is a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and appreciation for nature and wine culture. California Ranch Company (CRC), Wine Country Trails by Horseback, and Old Town Ranch all offer horseback riding in wine country.
California Ranch Company is one of Southern California's Premiere, Private Horse Training, Competition and Event Venue Facilities. Offering Wine Country Horseback…
Wine Country Trails By Horseback offers a one of kind horseback riding experience through the beautiful vineyards of the Temecula Wine Country. You will embark on a…
Please Watch for Horseback Riders
When driving in Temecula Valley's beautiful rural communities, please keep an eye out for horseback riders and slow down when horses are present. The equestrian community thanks you.
Horseback Riding F.A.Q.s
Closed-toe shoes with no or very low heel and fully cover your legs with pants.
A helmet will be provided.
Bottled water, and sunglasses if its sunny. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen!
Backpack, purse, flopping/loose fitting hat.
It is important to have full control of the reigns, however you are welcome to stop to take a photo.
Rides are not booked when the weather is too hot for the horses.
Yes, contact any of the three businesses to book your ride.
The rides vary but expect approximately 90 minutes.
These companies are able to match each rider with their experience level, from beginners to experts.
All rides are weather permitting. Should the ride be cancelled due to weather, you are able to reschedule.
In order to keep you safe, there is no drinking while riding.
Yes, please inquire about the age minimum or special needs.
Absolutely! Just let the company you book with know you are in a group.
Vail Lake KOA - Equestrian Trails at Vail Lake Resort feature 10-miles of horse-only trails set within 365-acres of peaceful recreation space. Once the site of a stopover on the historic Butterfield Overland Stage Coach Line, scenic Vail Lake was created in 1948 when the owners of the Vail Cattle Ranch constructed the Vail Lake Dam. Today the horse trails evoke an escape into the untamed past. After a long day on the trails or a ride in the hills hitch up your horse at the bunkhouse bar to enjoy a cold drink with friends and toast the day. Onsite RV Resort offers overnight camping sites for horse trailers. An Equestrian Day Pass reservation is required at $5-$10 per person, book HERE.
Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve- With more than 40 miles of scenic equestrian trails, this hidden gem offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and ecosystems of the area. Consisting of 9000 acres, the Reserve protects unique ecosystems such as Engelmann oak woodlands, riparian wetlands, coastal sage scrub, chaparral, bunchgrass prairie, and vernal pools as well as more than 200 species of native birds and 49 endangered, threatened or rare animal and plant species. Riders can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere as they traverse through grasslands, oak woodlands, and valleys. The reserve offers several loop trails, with the Hidden Valley Trail and Trans Preserve Trail among the most popular choices. Fees are $6 per adult, $3 per child.
Santa Margarita River- This 221-acre lush river corridor contains riparian and upland habitats. Raptors are a common site overhead or perched in trees. Deer and other large mammals rely on the river for their water. Santa Margarita River is one of the last free-flowing wild rivers in Southern California. For centuries, the abounding resources in the river valley sustained Native Americans. The trail is free and its two miles of non-motorized multi-use trails are open to hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders, with an equestrian staging area, horse corral and portable restroom.
