ENJOY AN ENCHANTING HORSEBACK RIDE ALONG THE SANTA YNEZ RIVER.

Go back in time to the unspoiled days of Old California on a quiet, blissful, and rustic ride through nature. Highly acclaimed as one of the Central Coast's top attractions, the rides are perfect for families, couples, and horse lovers of all ages and riding abilities. Now conveniently located at our brand new facility at River View Park in Buellton, California, only a mile from Highway 101.

 

Riders depart our cozy stable nestled along the tranquil Santa Rita Hills canyon, cross the river, then head toward a bustling beaver dam, all while encountering abundant wildlife (eagles, deer, beavers) flourishing in their natural surroundings. 

 

Spring is perfect for a River Trail Ride, as the water is deep and flowing offering multiple crossings and abundant wildlife. Rides are offered daily year-round by appointment. No riding experience necessary. All horses and ponies are retired champion show, rodeo, or ranch horses, so it’s fun for advanced riders, too. Rides are small-group or private.  

 

Kids aged 8 and up can join the trail ride if they have some previous riding experience. All kids 8-12 will get their own mount and be attached by lead line to their own guide.* Kids 6+ can join their parents on the Family Fun Ride.

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CHECK OUT OUR MANY RIDE OPTIONS:

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THE MAGICAL PONY ENCOUNTER

Kids age 2 to 12 love our one-hour Pony Encounter which is a safe and fun way to learn about horses, including a guided pony ride around our arena and a short trail ride into the woods. Unicorn available on request!  Great for parties, family outings and group activities and only $114 per child, (or $15 less if you opt out of the trail walk). Parents can ride along, too on their own horse (though not required)! Rides are designed for two kids per session, plus up to three adults can ride along. If you have larger groups or want to plan a birthday party, please call or email our office for booking assistance.

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THE FAMILY FUN RIDE

Kids age 6 and up can join their family on a one-hour trail ride that begins in our Pony Arena with an introduction and lesson. Then, the group departs and takes a short trail ride toward the woods and river. Kids are ponied alongside our experienced guides, but get to ride their own horse. Kids must pass a simple test to show their balance and ability to control their horse before the trail ride segment begins. This is a safe and fun way for the entire family to have a lifelong memory. 

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RIVER TRAIL RIDES

Adults and kids age 8+ can enjoy a 60, 75, or 90-minute River Trail Ride. All rides reach the tantalizing Santa Ynez River with up to four seasonal crossings. The 90-minute ride includes a deep-water crossing near a beaver dam bustling with wildlife. Both rides are relaxing, refreshing, and easy for riders of all experience levels, even beginners.

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PETTING ZOO

Our fantastic Petting Zoo is now Open and is free to all kids who do our Magical Pony Encounter. Petting Zoo encounters are only $15 for a 30-minute session.

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AFTER SCHOOL FARM CAMP

After School Farm Camp is an afternoon enrichment program for children age 6-12 centered on raising and caring for a variety of farm animals including goats, sheep, miniature horses, mules, ponies and full-size horses. The Fall

2025 Semester is enrolling soon!  Click the book button for details!

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RIDING LESSON PROGRAMS

We now offer private weekly Horsemanship Lessons for kids age 6+. Click the Book Now Button for details and availability.

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LOCAL DEALS & DISCOUNTS

We're proud to partner with several exceptional Santa Ynez Valley hotels and offer their guests exclusive discounts. Ask for the promo code at these hotels:

  . Flying Flags RV Resort (Save $10 per rider with promo code FlyingFlags$)

  . SYV Marriott (Save $10 per rider with promo code TheMarriott$) 

  . Sideways Inn (Save $10 per rider with promo code Sideways$)

  . Hotel Corque (Save $10 per rider with promo code HotelCorque$)

  . Vinland Hotel (Save $10 per rider with promo code Vinland$)

  . The Landsby (Save $10 per rider with promo code Landsby$)

  . WorldMark Solvang (Save $10 per rider with promo code WorldMark$)

  . Hampton Inn & Suites (Save $10 per rider with promo code HamptonInn$)

If you're not staying at one of these great locations, please contact our office for seasonal deals and discounts and we'll happily hook you up!

  

GIFT CERTIFICATES & LOCALS SPECIALS

Click Here for Gift Certificates for parties of two or more. 

 

BOOK NOW! Click the button to check daily availability and make your reservation. Or contact our office by phone 805.693.4600, text 805.705.5458 or email Bob@SYVHorsebackRides.com to secure your date or ask any questions.

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