Kanab: Cave Lakes Canyon Horseback Riding Experience

Cave Lakes Canyon gives you a rare way to see Kanab country: from the back of a horse, at a calm walking pace, beneath 100-foot red sandstone walls. The 2.5-mile route passes through meadows, pastures, and small lakes before climbing toward a low plateau between Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon. I like the small group size and the relaxed setting, where guides such as Johnny, Sadie, Blaine, and Jessica can give personal help. I also like that the horses are matched to riders and that beginners are welcome.

The main consideration is that this is a short, gentle trail ride rather than a fast or highly technical horseback adventure. Some horses may interact with one another, and one rider felt this could be challenging for first-timers, so very young children and anyone uneasy around horses should think carefully before booking.

Key points at a glance

• A 2.5-mile canyon route: Ride through meadows and pastures as red sandstone walls rise around you.
• A small group of 10 or fewer: The limited size makes it easier to ask questions and receive help.
• Beginner-friendly horses: Several guides, including Johnny and Sadie, have helped first-time riders feel comfortable.
• More than red rock views: The route includes hidden lakes, shaded areas, open fields, and a low plateau.
• A well-cared-for herd: Many riders specifically praised the horses’ calm manners and condition.
• Practical limits: Children must be at least 8, and riders over 220 pounds cannot participate.

Riding into Cave Lakes Canyon near Kanab

You begin at Cave Lakes Canyon Ranch, a short distance from Kanab. The setting quickly shifts from town and highway scenery to a quieter canyon environment, with open pasture and red rock enclosing the trail.

The central feature is the canyon itself. Tall sandstone walls frame the ride and give the route a sense of shelter without making it feel closed in. The walls reach roughly 100 feet, so you get a striking view in every direction while still riding through a peaceful, manageable setting.

This is not a ride designed around speed. You follow a winding trail at an easy pace, giving you time to look at the rock formations, watch your horse, and listen to the guide. If you have never ridden before, that slower rhythm is useful. You can focus on posture, reins, and the horse’s movement instead of trying to keep up with a fast group.

The route stretches about 2.5 miles and gradually rises toward a low plateau located between Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon. That description matters because the ride is not limited to one narrow canyon view. You pass through several types of terrain, from green fields to rocky walls and higher open ground.

A gentle start for first-time riders

The horses are an important part of the experience. Several guides have been praised for pairing riders with suitable mounts, and one rider noted that Blaine selected horses that fit the group well. Sadie also took care when matching riders with horses, including Quarter and Bangs, two horses with very different personalities.

You do not need previous riding experience. Johnny has helped beginners enjoy the ride, and the activity is designed for people who may be sitting on a horse for the first time. The guide gives direction during the ride, including when to let the horses graze or drink water.

Still, beginner-friendly does not mean completely hands-off. You are responsible for listening, following directions, and staying aware of the horse in front of you. Horses have their own habits and social behavior. One rider reported seeing horses bite and compete with one another, and felt that this could be difficult for first-time riders. That was a minority concern in an otherwise very strong set of ratings, but it is worth taking seriously if you are nervous around animals.

The best approach is to arrive ready to pay attention. Wear long pants and comfortable shoes. You do not need to dress up for the ranch, and practical clothing will make mounting and sitting in the saddle easier.

Meadows, lakes, and red rock walls

The route has enough variety to keep a 90-minute ride from feeling repetitive. You pass through lush meadows and green pasture, then return to the drama of the canyon walls. The combination is one of the strongest reasons to choose this ride over a simple open-field horseback outing.

The hidden lakes add another change of mood. They give the ride a quieter, more reflective stop and show a softer side of southern Utah. You are not only looking at dry red rock. You also see water, grass, and areas where the horses can pause.

Some of the route may provide shade from the canyon walls. One rider appreciated how the surroundings blocked much of the sun and kept the ride cooler. That can be especially useful during warmer months, although the actual comfort of the ride will still depend on the day’s weather.

The scenery is also valuable for people who have already visited Zion or Bryce Canyon. The ride does not replace a national park hike or scenic drive, but it gives you a different view of the region. You are low to the ground, moving slowly, and seeing the canyon from a trail rather than from a road or overlook.

The guides shape the experience

The guide can make or break a horseback ride, and this operation has several names worth noting. Johnny has been praised for making new riders feel comfortable. Sadie has been described as friendly, attentive, and well informed about the property. Blaine has been singled out for being easy to talk with and for knowing the horses and Cave Lakes area well.

Jessica has also received praise for sharing information about the surroundings and allowing riders to give the horses a treat at the end. That small closing moment can be especially appealing to families and horse lovers. RaeChele has been described as personable and engaging, and one ride with her turned into an easy conversation throughout the tour.

Kevin has added local stories and information about the area, while another rider appreciated a guide who adjusted the route to suit the weather. These details show why a small group matters. With no more than 10 people, the guide has a better chance of checking on riders, answering questions, and taking photos if conditions allow.

There is one practical limitation. On a larger or spread-out group, it may be hard to hear every comment while the horses are moving. One rider specifically wished the guide had spoken louder. If learning about the area is a major reason for booking, ask questions when the group pauses and stay close enough to hear.

What the 90-minute schedule feels like

Ninety minutes is long enough to feel like a real outing but short enough to fit into a busy Kanab day. You can ride in the morning and still have time for another activity, or use this as a lighter afternoon plan after a more demanding hike.

The ride begins at Cave Lakes Canyon Ranch with the horses and guide provided. The exact start time depends on availability, so check the schedule when booking. Plan to arrive early. One rider gave a clear warning about this, and arriving with time to spare is sensible for any activity involving horses.

The main portion follows the canyon trail through fields and around the red rock formations. As you gain a little height, the views broaden toward the plateau. The route includes places to let the horses graze or drink, which also gives you a natural pause from riding.

Do not expect a long lunch stop or a full day at the ranch. Food and drinks are not included, and the activity does not present itself as a meal outing. Bring what you need before arriving, particularly if you are scheduling the ride around other sightseeing.

Is $95 a fair price?

At $95 per person, this is not the cheapest way to spend an hour and a half in southern Utah. But the price includes the horse, the guide, the ranch setting, and access to a route that combines canyon walls, meadows, lakes, and higher ground.

I think the value is strongest if you want an easy outdoor activity with a personal feel. A group limited to 10 people is more useful than a large trail procession, especially for beginners who may need extra direction. The guides also add value through horse selection, local information, photo help, and attention to weather.

The value is weaker if you are looking for a long ride, fast riding, or a demanding wilderness outing. Ninety minutes passes quickly, and the pace is geared toward control and scenery rather than adventure sports. You are paying for a well-organized introduction to the area on horseback, not an all-day ranch expedition.

For a couple or family wanting a memorable break from driving and hiking, the price is reasonable. For a serious equestrian seeking technical riding, it may feel limited.

Who should book this ride?

This tour suits adults and children age 8 or older who want to try horseback riding in a scenic setting. It is especially good for first-time riders who appreciate calm horses and a guide nearby. Several riders who described themselves as inexperienced still found the horses easy to handle.

It also suits experienced riders who enjoy scenery more than speed. The horses, meadows, and canyon walls create a relaxed outing, and the changing terrain gives you something to look at throughout the route.

Horse lovers may get extra pleasure from the care given to the animals. Riders have noticed that the horses appeared well cared for, had distinct personalities, and were allowed to graze and rest. The chance to offer a treat at the end, when permitted by the guide, is a nice touch.

I would be more cautious about booking for a child under 8, since younger children cannot participate. I would also avoid booking if you weigh more than 220 pounds, which is the stated maximum. Finally, if you are uncomfortable with horses being close together, ask about group handling before you reserve.

Small details that improve the ride

Wear long pants. Shorts may be less comfortable in a saddle, and long pants offer more protection from rubbing against the saddle and brush.

Choose comfortable shoes. The activity does not specify a particular type of footwear, but practical shoes are a better choice than sandals or anything difficult to walk in.

Bring your attention, not just your camera. The red walls and meadows are easy to photograph, but the best part of the route is its slow pace. Watch how the trail changes, notice the lakes, and listen for the guide’s comments during pauses.

If photos matter to you, ask the guide how pictures will be handled. One rider appreciated having photos taken, while another reported not receiving them afterward. That does not define every ride, but it is a fair reason to clarify the plan before or during the tour.

The horses may graze during the ride, so do not expect a perfectly continuous procession. Those pauses are part of the ranch rhythm and give the animals time to drink, eat, and settle. They may also make the outing feel more natural than a tightly timed attraction.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later. Those terms help if your Kanab plans depend on weather or changing park schedules.

My call: book it for scenery and a calm pace

I would book the Cave Lakes Canyon ride if I wanted a short, scenic horseback outing near Kanab, especially as a first riding experience. The combination of gentle horses, small groups, and personal guides gives it a friendly feel, while the canyon walls and lakes make it more memorable than a basic pasture ride.

I would skip it if you want speed, a long-distance ride, or a fully predictable horse line. Arrive early, wear long pants and comfortable shoes, and be ready to follow the guide’s directions. For the right rider, $95 buys a peaceful look at southern Utah from a wonderfully different seat.

FAQ

Where does the horseback ride begin?

The ride begins at Cave Lakes Canyon Ranch near Kanab, Utah.

How long is the activity?

The guided horseback ride lasts 90 minutes.

How far is the trail?

The Cave Lakes Canyon trail covers about 2.5 miles.

What scenery will I see?

You will ride through pastures, meadows, and canyon terrain, with hidden lakes and red sandstone walls reaching about 100 feet. The route gradually rises toward a low plateau between Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon.

Is the ride suitable for beginners?

Yes. Previous riding experience is not required, and the guides pair riders with suitable horses. You still need to follow instructions and remain aware of the horses around you.

What is the minimum age?

Children must be at least 8 years old to participate.

Is there a weight limit?

Yes. People over 220 pounds, or 100 kilograms, cannot participate.

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable shoes and long pants.

Is food or drink included?

No. Food and beverages are not included in the activity price.