Best Horseback Riding Tours in Montana - June 2026

USA / Montana
Experience the rugged beauty of Big Sky Country with our curated selection of top-rated horseback riding tours in Montana. From scenic mountain trails to authentic ranch adventures, discover the perfect equestrian journey for all skill levels.
1

Lone Mountain Ranch

USA, Big Sky
4.9

Luxury guest ranch offering premium horseback riding experiences near Yellowstone.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1915
  • Employees: 50-200
  • Price Range: $$$$
  • Phone: +1-406-995-4644
  • Email: info@lonemountainranch.com

About the Company

Lone Mountain Ranch offers an authentic Montana experience with elite horsemanship programs. Guests explore the scenic trails of Big Sky with expert guides, ensuring both safety and adventure in a high-end setting.

Pros

  • Luxury accommodation
  • Expert guides

Cons

  • Higher price point
  • Requires advance booking
2

Bar W Guest Ranch

USA, Whitefish
4.8

Premier dude ranch offering year-round riding activities in Whitefish.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1998
  • Employees: 20-50
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Phone: +1-406-863-9099
  • Email: info@barwguestranch.com

About the Company

Located in Whitefish, Bar W Guest Ranch provides diverse equestrian activities, from arena lessons to backcountry trail rides. Their program caters to all skill levels, making it a perfect spot for families.

Pros

  • Year-round operation
  • Family friendly

Cons

  • Limited availability in peak season
3

Rich Ranch

USA, Seeley Lake
4.7

Family-owned ranch specializing in wilderness pack trips and trail rides.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1957
  • Employees: 10-20
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +1-406-677-2317
  • Email: info@richranch.com

About the Company

Rich Ranch excels in authentic wilderness experiences. Their guided pack trips through the Bob Marshall Wilderness offer riders unparalleled access to Montana's pristine backcountry and wildlife.

Pros

  • Remote wilderness access
  • Family-owned

Cons

  • Rustic facilities
4

Mountain Sky Guest Ranch

USA, Emigrant
5.0

All-inclusive luxury ranch focused on riding and wellness.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1929
  • Employees: 100-250
  • Price Range: $$$$
  • Phone: +1-800-548-3392
  • Email: info@mtnsky.com

About the Company

Mountain Sky is renowned for its world-class equestrian program and stunning mountain views. They provide customized riding experiences, ranging from leisurely valley treks to challenging mountain climbs.

Pros

  • Exceptional service
  • Custom riding paths

Cons

  • Exclusive access
5

Triple Creek Ranch

USA, Darby
4.9

Adult-oriented luxury ranch in the heart of the Bitterroot Mountains.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1984
  • Employees: 50-150
  • Price Range: $$$$
  • Phone: +1-406-821-4600
  • Email: info@triplecreekranch.com

About the Company

Triple Creek Ranch offers an ultra-luxurious adult getaway. With private trail rides through pristine timberlands, it provides a peaceful and refined way to experience the Montana wilderness on horseback.

Pros

  • Adults-only atmosphere
  • Luxury amenities

Cons

  • No children allowed
6

K Bar L Ranch

USA, Augusta
4.6

Deep wilderness ranch accessible only by boat or horseback.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1920
  • Employees: 10-25
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +1-406-466-2244
  • Email: info@kbarlranch.com

About the Company

For the true adventurer, K Bar L offers an isolated retreat deep in the Bob Marshall Wilderness. Their horse riding tours are rugged, authentic, and completely detached from the modern world.

Pros

  • True wilderness isolation
  • Professional wranglers

Cons

  • Difficult access
7

Sixty Three Ranch

USA, Livingston
4.5

Historic guest ranch offering traditional horseback riding vacations.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1863
  • Employees: 15-30
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Phone: +1-406-222-0505
  • Email: info@sixtythreeranch.com

About the Company

A National Historic Site, the Sixty Three Ranch preserves the traditional Montana dude ranch lifestyle. Their riding program focuses on horsemanship and exploring the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness.

Pros

  • Historic setting
  • Authentic experience

Cons

  • Traditional style only
8

Nine Quarter Circle Ranch

USA, Gallatin Gateway
4.8

A classic working guest ranch near the Yellowstone park boundary.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1946
  • Employees: 30-50
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Phone: +1-406-995-4276
  • Email: info@ninequartercircle.com

About the Company

Nine Quarter Circle Ranch is ideal for those seeking a real western working ranch experience. Their riding tours are legendary, taking guests through rugged mountains adjacent to Yellowstone.

Pros

  • Working ranch vibe
  • Yellowstone proximity

Cons

  • Very rustic
9

Lost Trail Lodge

USA, Bozeman
4.7

Intimate lodge offering guided horseback excursions in the Gallatin National Forest.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2005
  • Employees: 5-15
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +1-406-587-5221
  • Email: info@losttraillodge.com

About the Company

Nestled in the woods, Lost Trail Lodge provides smaller, more personal horseback riding groups. Perfect for guests wanting to explore the local forest trails without the crowds of large ranches.

Pros

  • Personalized service
  • Quiet location

Cons

  • Smaller facility
10

Hawley Mountain Guest Ranch

USA, McLeod
4.6

Remote mountain ranch offering guided scenic trail rides.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1978
  • Employees: 15-30
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Phone: +1-406-932-5791
  • Email: info@hawleymountain.com

About the Company

Hawley Mountain Guest Ranch specializes in scenic rides within the Boulder River Valley. Their experienced wranglers match horses to rider ability, ensuring a comfortable trip for both novices and experts.

Pros

  • Scenic trails
  • Good horse matching

Cons

  • Seasonal accessibility
11

McGinnis Meadows Cattle & Guest Ranch

USA, Libby
4.9

Specialists in natural horsemanship and cattle work.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1993
  • Employees: 20-40
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Phone: +1-406-293-5000
  • Email: info@mmgranch.com

About the Company

For riders looking to improve their skills, McGinnis Meadows offers intensive horsemanship clinics. It is a working ranch environment where you can learn to ride with purpose and technique.

Pros

  • Skill development
  • Natural horsemanship

Cons

  • Educational focus
12

Covered Wagon Ranch

USA, Gallatin Gateway
4.8

Historic, authentic ranch bordering Yellowstone National Park.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1925
  • Employees: 15-25
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Phone: +1-406-995-4237
  • Email: info@coveredwagonranch.com

About the Company

Covered Wagon Ranch prides itself on traditional hospitality. With rides that take you right up to the Yellowstone boundary, it's a prime destination for wildlife spotting and mountain scenery.

Pros

  • Historic vibe
  • Prime location

Cons

  • Basic amenities
13

Dryhead Ranch

USA, Lovell
4.7

Authentic working cattle ranch with extensive trail riding programs.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1970
  • Employees: 10-20
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +1-307-548-6688
  • Email: info@dryheadranch.com

About the Company

Dryhead Ranch is a working cattle operation where guests can participate in real ranch activities. If you want to ride horses while driving cattle, this is the ultimate Montana experience.

Pros

  • Cattle drives
  • Real work environment

Cons

  • Physically demanding
14

Lonesome Spur Ranch

USA, Bridger
4.6

A family-run dude ranch focused on traditional western riding.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1980
  • Employees: 10-20
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +1-406-328-4444
  • Email: info@lonesomespur.com

About the Company

Lonesome Spur Ranch offers a classic Montana experience with plenty of time in the saddle. Their team focuses on small group rides to ensure safety and allow for scenic exploration at a relaxed pace.

Pros

  • Family friendly
  • Small groups

Cons

  • Remote location
15

The Resort at Paws Up

USA, Greenough
5.0

Luxury glamping resort featuring an extensive equestrian center.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2005
  • Employees: 200-500
  • Price Range: $$$$$
  • Phone: +1-800-473-0601
  • Email: info@pawsup.com

About the Company

Paws Up combines luxury glamping with a state-of-the-art equestrian center. Whether you are a beginner taking a gentle ride or an advanced rider seeking technical trails, they provide a top-tier service.

Pros

  • High-end luxury
  • Modern facilities

Cons

  • Very expensive

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

What is the best time of year for horseback riding in Montana?
The best time is between June and September when weather conditions are mild and mountain trails are accessible.

Do I need prior experience for these tours?
Many operators offer beginner-friendly rides, but it is recommended to check specific tour requirements beforehand.

What should I wear for a horseback riding tour?
Wear long pants, comfortable closed-toe boots, and dress in layers to adapt to changing mountain weather.

Are these tours suitable for children?
Yes, most providers have age and weight restrictions, so please verify with the specific tour operator.

What is included in a typical Montana horseback riding tour?
Most tours include a professional guide, a well-trained horse, tack, and safety orientation.

Can I book private horseback riding tours in Montana?
Yes, many ranches and tour companies offer private or small-group bookings for a more personalized experience.