Flagstaff Arizona and the San Francisco Peaks

Flagstaff Horseback Riding

Originally written by Tony Subia

Updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on August 13, 2026

Horseback riding near Flagstaff, Arizona offers a scenic way to explore the ponderosa pine forests and mountain country of northern Arizona. Guided trail rides are available at Mormon Lake, southeast of Flagstaff, where AZ High Mountain Trail Rides operates seasonal horseback adventures through the surrounding Coconino National Forest. Ride options accommodate beginners, families and more experienced riders, making horseback riding an easy addition to a Flagstaff summer or early-fall vacation.

Horseback Trail Rides
Trail Ride Options
Riding Season
Beginners & Families
What To Know Before Riding
Location & Directions
Horseback Riding Tips
FAQ

Horseback Trail Rides Near Flagstaff

AZ High Mountain Trail Rides operates guided horseback rides from Mormon Lake Lodge, approximately 30 miles southeast of Flagstaff. The trails travel through ponderosa pine forest and the surrounding Coconino National Forest, offering a quieter high-country experience away from the city.

Rides are guided by experienced wranglers, and each outing begins with basic riding and safety instruction. The horses remain at a controlled walking pace on the forest trails because of rocky terrain, trees, wildlife and uneven ground.

Horseback Trail Ride Options

30-Minute Ponderosa Ride: A shorter introductory ride designed for younger or beginning riders, subject to availability.
60-Minute Tomblers Trail Ride: A forest ride through the ponderosa pines suitable for beginners and riders of varying experience levels.
90-Minute Navajo Springs Trail Ride: A longer ride featuring forest scenery and areas near Navajo Springs.
2-Hour Lake View Trail Ride: The longest regular ride, designed for more experienced riders and offering broader views around Mormon Lake.
Wagon Rides: Seasonal wagon rides may also be available for groups and special occasions with advance arrangements.

Best Time For Horseback Riding Near Flagstaff

Horseback riding at Mormon Lake is seasonal and depends on weather and trail conditions. The primary riding season generally runs from mid-May through September, with limited October riding sometimes available when conditions remain favorable.

Summer offers cool mountain temperatures compared with Arizona's lower deserts, while early fall can bring crisp mornings and changing vegetation. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends, holidays and during peak summer travel periods.

Horseback Riding For Beginners And Families

AZ High Mountain Trail Rides offers options for first-time riders as well as experienced equestrians. Wranglers assign horses based on rider size and experience and provide instructions before leaving the stable area.

Children age 7 and older may participate in regular trail rides, while younger riders may be better suited to the shorter Ponderosa Ride when available. Helmets are strongly recommended for all riders, and special child group events require protective headgear. All participants must follow the wrangler's safety instructions throughout the ride.

What To Know Before Your Trail Ride

Reservations are strongly recommended because horses and wranglers must be scheduled in advance.
The current rider weight limit is 250 pounds because of mountain terrain and horse-safety considerations.
Riders must be able to mount the horse with minimal assistance.
Pregnant riders are not permitted to participate.
People with significant back, neck or hip problems should consider whether horseback riding is appropriate for them.
Closed-toe shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are strongly recommended.
Follow all wrangler instructions and remain with the guided group at all times.

Ponderosa pine and mountain scenery near Flagstaff and Mormon Lake Arizona

Horseback Riding At Mormon Lake

AZ High Mountain Trail Rides operates from Mormon Lake Lodge, approximately 30 miles southeast of Flagstaff. The lodge is located at 1991 South Mormon Lake Road in Mormon Lake, Arizona.

From Flagstaff, travelers generally reach the area by following Lake Mary Road southeast toward Mormon Lake and then continuing to Mormon Lake Lodge. Allow extra time during summer storms, winter weather or periods of active road construction.

AZ High Mountain Trail Rides
Mormon Lake Lodge
1991 South Mormon Lake Road
Mormon Lake, Arizona 86038
928-354-2359

Tips For Horseback Riding Near Flagstaff

Reserve your ride in advance during summer weekends and holidays.
Arrive early enough to complete waivers and receive riding instructions.
Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes for comfort and protection.
Bring sunscreen and water because Arizona's high-elevation sun can be strong.
Carry a light jacket during spring, early summer and fall because mountain temperatures can change quickly.
Check the weather forecast during monsoon season because thunderstorms can affect outdoor activities.
Ask about current ride availability and trail conditions before driving from Flagstaff.

Frequently Asked Questions About Flagstaff Horseback Riding

Where can you go horseback riding near Flagstaff Arizona?

Guided horseback trail rides are available at Mormon Lake Lodge southeast of Flagstaff through AZ High Mountain Trail Rides.

How far is Mormon Lake horseback riding from Flagstaff?

Mormon Lake Lodge is approximately 30 miles southeast of Flagstaff and is generally reached by following Lake Mary Road toward Mormon Lake.

Are Flagstaff horseback rides suitable for beginners?

Yes. AZ High Mountain Trail Rides offers guided rides suitable for beginners, families and riders with varying levels of experience.

How old do children need to be for a trail ride?

Children age 7 and older may participate in regular guided trail rides. A shorter introductory Ponderosa Ride may be available for younger riders, subject to current operating policies and availability.

Is there a weight limit for horseback riding?

Yes. AZ High Mountain Trail Rides currently lists a maximum rider weight of 250 pounds because of the terrain and horse-safety requirements.

When is horseback riding available near Flagstaff?

The primary Mormon Lake riding season generally runs from mid-May through September, with additional October availability sometimes offered when weather and trail conditions permit.

Do I need a reservation?

Reservations are strongly recommended because trail rides require available horses and staff. Walk-ins may be accommodated but are not guaranteed.

Do horseback rides run or gallop?

No. Guided forest trail rides remain at a controlled pace, and the operator does not allow running, cantering or trotting on the mountain trails because of terrain and safety concerns.

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Flagstaff High Country