skyland ranch

Good horse that I swear is part mountain goat. I'm from the midwest so not used to horses on rocky terrain. I will def go again on my next trip.

I've taken trail rides all over the world during my travels, from the jungles in Costa Rica to riding bareback in the ocean in Jamaica and this one is by far my favorite. Why? because on every other trail ride, you get to slowly saunter with 10 or more other people and listen to whatever they are jabbering about (most of the time it's absolutely uninteresting to me and contains silly questions from people who have never left home) and this one will book only your party. They will also let you run the horses and not be contained by tourists who squeal at every step. I was raised with horses and there is nothing more exhilarating than running full speed around sharp corners on a narrow trail!! The guides are amazing and friendly. The match the horses perfectly to your personality (ie: they gave me a fabulous horse full of attitude and confidence) and if you want to go longer on the ride, you can add the time right then and there. If you want a Five Star experience then this is the place for you!

We have been here on many occasions over the years and keep coming back. It is now a guided tour however there is a lot of flexibility. The trails follow the river and are shaded by trees and vegetation. The guides are knowledgeable and very accommodating to all skill levels. The price of $30 per hour is very reasonable. It is a working ranch where most if not all the guides live and work. It takes about 45 minutes to get there from Seattle and sometimes the traffic can be slow as it is a 2-4 lane road.

My husband and I booked a two hour trail ride at Skyland Ranch during our stay at the nearby Whispering Waters Sky Cabin. I was a little bit nervous because my previous horseback riding experience consisted of only pony rides but I requested the gentle horse and was fine. The guide was helpful and informative and the view of the trail overlooking the river was amazing. Also, reasonable rates and the funds go to help a good cause. I would definitely go again and I recommend to friends. Be aware that they take cash only and there are limited ATMs available in town--one at the Shell gas station if I remember correctly. I'd also recommend going to Zeke's drive in for a milk shake after. Their pumpkin pie milkshakes are fantastic.

The scenery is breathtaking, river views, sunshine through all the trees, being able to go wherever on I don't know how many acres on UNGUIDED horseback if you wish? Awesome experience, I would recommend this place to anyone who wants to see nature as God intended. Tell Dave and Chris I said hello !!