Let’s be honest: sunsets are pretty magical on their own, but they’re absolutely unbeatable from the back of a horse. Whether you are looking to create an unforgettable family memory or add the perfect romantic touch to a date night, a sunset horseback ride is the adventure for you!

This hour-long trail ride includes the same benefits as the “Family-Friendly Horseback Ride” (suitable for ages 6+ and beginner-friendly), but has been specifically-timed to include reaching a lookout point as the Colorado sunset plays out overhead.

This sunset horseback ride is suitable for children and first-time riders, who will enjoy a meandering walk through the valleys and hilltops outside of Fort Collins, Colorado.

The sunset horseback ride leaves from the Stables at Gordon Creek by Tattered Saddle in Livermore, Colorado – only 35 minutes from downtown Fort Collins and 20 minutes from beautiful Red Feather Lakes!

After being helped onto your trusty steed, wranglers will teach you the basics of communicating with your horse: go, stop, left and right – it’s easier than you think!

Then you and your fellow adventurers will set out as a group on this sunset horseback ride to watch the sky reflect brilliant colors over the mountains of the Roosevelt National Forest.

The hills around Fort Collins frequently experience rain showers in the early afternoon. This means that by evening, the sky is sometimes dotted with clouds which reflect the oranges, pinks, reds and indigos of the setting sun. Mix in with that the wide-open expanse of prairie sky, framed only by the dark shadow of the hills and mountains around, and you have a recipe for an absolutely stunning experience.

Joining our one-hour sunset horseback ride is based on your ability to get on the horse with our instruction, and your willingness to follow direction on the trail. If you think you can do those things, we’ll take care of the rest!

Customize the sunset horseback ride

Tattered Saddle is all about turning your ride into your ride.

Want to add champagne and flowers? A charcuterie board? No problem! We can add time to your experience, transport a “bring-your-own” picnic, and even arrange a photographer! Simply take a look at our private ride packages and give us a call at (970) 657-5463 to customize this experience and make it the highlight of your Colorado vacation.

Other horseback experiences

Although we have tried, we do not have control over the setting and rising of the sun. Therefore, the Sunset ride is only available once a day within a very tight timeframe. If the evening ride is simply not going to fit into your schedule, you should know that the Stables at Gordon Creek by Tattered Saddle does offer several other horseback adventures throughout the day. 

• Our most popular ride, the “Family-Friendly Trail Ride” is available every hour-and-a-half any day that we are open. It is a one-hour, beginner-friendly horseback ride that will please everyone in your party.  It winds through pastures and up and down a few mild hills and, of course, includes a photo opportunity for you and your horse.
• If you are looking for something a bit more challenging, our “Advanced Riding Adventures” are probably more your speed. These trail rides (or arena sessions) are an hour long and give participants a chance to pick up the pace. Riders must pass a brief riding skills check upon arrival to participate. The scenery is still beautiful and you will still get a photo opportunity on the ride.
• For those who get a lot of enjoyment out of bonding with and pampering their horse, the “Scratch and Ride” is a great experience. Available only in the mornings, this beginner-friendly trail ride has an extra half-hour built in to allow you to groom and saddle your mount before we even get out of the stable! Don’t know how to do any of these things? No problem! We’ll teach you everything.
• Tattered Saddle offers one of the only meal rides in Eastern Colorado. However, if you are picturing a crumpled brown-bag lunch and a log to sit on, think again: the “Charcuterie Picnic Horseback Ride” is the western, trail-riding equivalent of a fine-dining experience. The picnic is catered by local, professional charcutiers and served at a western-chic tablescape set in a secluded meadow.