The Vista Verde Riding Program offers fun-filled, informative clinics mixed in with adventurous trail rides that accommodate all riding levels. We own the entire remuda of over 90 horses, and we match each guest's personality with the perfect "horse-anality" to get you off on the right hoof, 'er foot. Our riding program is about much more than beautiful trail rides. Even those who have ridden all their lives have been known to learn or experience something new while at VVR.

Ranch Trainer Terry Wegener is a NHRA Money winner and has an extensive background in reining and ranch versatility horse training, competition and judging.  He brings this experience to the Vista Verde riding program and has helped our guests learn to far exceed their expectations in regards to how much they can learn in a week.  From both demonstrating what he's teaching our young horses to helping you learn how to better communicate with your own horse, you might find that you never want to leave the arena because you're having too much fun!

Terry oversees our breeding and training program as well, helping ensure that we are bringing in the next generation of fabulous horses for our guests. We breed around four mares well-pedigreed mares each year to our own stallion and are enjoying the wonderful foals as they grow up at the ranch. As a guest, you can enjoy seeing these foals as they are born and begin the training process. Often times Terry and his team are working the young horses while they are teaching you to work with and train your own horse. It's just amazing how much there is to learn about horses, and Terry and his team are here to share that with you.

In the next months we'll start posting information on our horses for sale as we get some who show potential for the show ring.

Most days we have rides going out in the morning and afternoon, but we also go on an early morning breakfast ride and an evening dinner ride once a week. For those who really want to put some solid time in the saddle we offer all day rides with a picnic lunch at destinations like Pearl Lake or the South Fork of the Elk River. Rides are limited to 2-6 riders so each adventure can be tailored to your riding ability. We encourage family rides, but keep in mind the rides will be geared towards the most inexperienced rider. So if you want to go on a more challenging ride, we will pair you with other riders with the same interest and riding level.

For those who demonstrate good control at the walk and trot, we do move out on the trails when the terrain is appropriate. We are safety conscious since we've seen it all, and also pay close attention to how the horses are feeling each day so as to not wear them out, keeping them fresh for you all week.

There are plenty of opportunities for more advanced and faster riding here at VVR. We have a lot of fun with these amazing creatures and our wranglers keep things lively all week long with adventurous bushwhacking rides and games that get the horses out of the normal nose to tail riding style. That makes it more fun for them and you!

Everyday at the ranch offers a different and interesting clinic or horseback experience that can be great learning experiences for novices and experts alike. We've developed a variety of different clinics to explore the different aspects of horsemanship, and all suitable to all riding levels. Early in the week, our Balanced Riding Clinic provides in-depth instruction on correct body position in the saddle and at the walk, trot and lope. This clinic helps you learn how to move in sync with your horse for a smoother, more comfortable ride. Your body will thank you for this clinic all week on the trail.

The Driving Clinic could well be unique to the guest ranch world. Learn how to ground drive your horse and why that technique is helpful in training horses.

Individual lessons are available almost any day as well. You'll find that each wrangler has his or her own teaching style and background and that allows each of them to give you a different perspective on improving your skills.

These fun activities offer a wealth of instruction and information that will benefit any level of rider while boosting your confidence and ability on the trail. Your newly developed skills may even give you an advantage in the Horse Olympics and Team Penning "competition" later in the week!

Come mid-September, we partner up with a local rancher to help gather their cattle from their summer pasture.  The first part of the week is spent in the arena, honing each rider's skills on working cattle.  Once everyone is ready to go, we head out into the National Forest to search out, gather up and drive in the cattle.  These weeks are for those interested in an intensive riding experience and a lot of time in the saddle.  Please click here or contact Stephanie for more information on dates.

 

 

Just like the adults, the Buckaroos ride the same horse all week, developing a loving, trusting relationship. Our Kid's Wranglers get the youngsters started in the arena, but soon move out on the trail. Kid's rides are available daily. However, family rides are a popular option. In addition to riding, kids have the opportunity to learn how to feed and groom their horses and also tend other ranch animals. The teens have exclusive teen rides as well as the option of riding with adults. Not only do we offer adventurous and exciting trails for these young adults, we provide an excuse for them to get away from their parents! The teen program provides ample instruction for those who really want to "get into" the horse thing while at Vista Verde.