Riding Butch Cassidy’s Trails: An All-Day Horseback Journey Through Red Canyon’s Little Desert

BRYCE CANYON CITY BIKE TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Riding Butch Cassidy’s Trails: An All-Day Horseback Journey Through Red Canyon’s Little Desert

A 6-hour horseback outing from Ruby’s Inn that threads Casto and Losee Canyons, offering varied backdrops including the Little Desert and Red Canyon—this guide focuses on what to expect and how to prepare.

Riding Butch Cassidy’s Trails: An All-Day Horseback Journey Through Red Canyon’s Little Desert.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Bryce Canyon City
Operator
Ruby's Inn
Category
Bike Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Spend a full day in the red-rock country around Bryce Canyon City on a six-hour horseback ride that travels Casto and Losee Canyons through Red Canyon. The route moves across shifting backdrops—rock spires, sweeping canyon walls and an area nicknamed the Little Desert—and follows sections of trails once ridden by the outlaw Butch Cassidy.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE ROUTE

Casto and Losee Canyons through Red Canyon

A full-day loop that threads Casto and Losee Canyons and the broader Red Canyon landscape, delivering a sequence of distinct red-rock scenes over six hours.

THE HISTORY

Trails Once Rode by Butch Cassidy

The ride follows historic routes once used by Butch Cassidy, adding a frontier-era note to the modern-day ride as you pass through classic western canyon country.

THE WILD PLACES

The Little Desert and Changing Backdrops

Riders pass through an area called the Little Desert—evocatively described as a pocket of desert surrounded by Red Canyon—where the terrain and views contrast sharply with the tighter canyon sections.

What the day feels like

What the day feels like

Expect a steady, immersive six-hour ride that alternates between open desert-like expanses and tighter canyon corridors. The pace and scenery make this a day-length exploration rather than a quick loop—time on the horse allows the landscape to unfold, with a boxed lunch included to break the day.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this ride suits—and who should think twice.

1
Intermediate & Experienced RidersThis outing is designed for intermediate to experienced riders and is explicitly recommended for those with prior horseback experience rather than first-time riders.
2
First-Time RidersNot recommended for first-time riders; the operator notes the trip is best suited to riders who have some riding experience.
3
Families with Older ChildrenChildren aged 10 and up may ride, making this feasible for families with older kids who have riding experience and meet weight restrictions.
4
Heavier or Taller RidersThere is a 220 lb weight limit; riders over 6' should inquire by phone about suitability, so plan ahead if you exceed typical sizing.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Season

The ride lasts six hours; plan for a full-day excursion with outdoor exposure and a boxed lunch provided.

What to Bring

Pack appropriate riding clothing, sun protection and water; note that backpacks and camel‑back/water bladders are not permitted on the ride.

Logistics

Arrive 20–30 minutes before your scheduled ride time. Rates list a rider price for ages 10+; contact the operator for booking and any height/weight questions.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the All Day Ride?

The ride is six hours long.

What is the minimum age to participate?

Children must be at least 10 years old to ride.

What riding ability is required?

The trip is aimed at intermediate to experienced riders and is not recommended for first-time riders.

Are meals provided?

A boxed lunch is included with the ride.

Is there a weight or height restriction?

There is a 220 lb weight limit; riders over 6' should inquire by phone about the limit.

Can I bring a backpack or hydration bladder?

No—backpacks and camel‑back/water bladders are not permitted on this ride.

When should I arrive for my ride?

Please arrive 20 to 30 minutes early for your ride time.

How much does the ride cost?

The listed rider rate for ages 10 and up is $175.