A Full Day in the Saddle Above 7,000 Feet: The Real McCoy in Gunlock

GUNLOCK GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE

A Full Day in the Saddle Above 7,000 Feet: The Real McCoy in Gunlock

A full-day guided trail ride that climbs into Southern Utah’s high country, ending with a campfire cowboy meal—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

A Full Day in the Saddle Above 7,000 Feet: The Real McCoy in Gunlock.

Duration
8 Hours
Location
Gunlock
Operator
Western Horseback Trail Rides
Category
Guided Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

The Real McCoy is an eight-hour, full-day guided ride out of Gunlock that takes experienced riders into Southern Utah’s high country, topping out at elevations above 7,000 feet and ending around a campfire with a cowboy meal and sweeping views of Washington County.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE ROUTE

High-country ridgelines and wide views

This full-day route climbs into Southern Utah’s elevated landscapes, delivering panoramic views from over 7,000 feet and long stretches of open trail suited to riders comfortable in the saddle.

THE CAMP

Cowboy meal and campfire

Midday or late-ride stops include a campfire and a cowboy-style meal provided by the operator, a defining moment that shapes the day into more than a ride—it's a shared, backcountry meal and rest before the return.

THE PACE

A true full-day experience

Expect an eight-hour outing that goes deep into the landscape—this package is designed as a full-day immersion rather than a brief loop, suitable for riders seeking extended time on the trail.

What the day feels like

What the day feels like

You saddle up at the trailhead and spend the day moving through high desert and pine-dotted ridgelines, pausing for a campfire lunch and to absorb views across Washington County before riding back—an immersive eight-hour excursion hosted by Western Horseback Trail Rides.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this ride suits—and who should look for something easier.

1
Experienced trail ridersAn ideal match—this full-day package is intended for riders comfortable with extended time on horseback and the demands of a high-country route.
2
Adventurous couples or small groupsA strong fit for pairs or groups seeking a longer, more immersive day in the saddle with a communal campfire meal at high elevation.
3
Novice ridersNot recommended—this offering is framed for experienced or adventurous riders rather than first-time riders or brief introductory loops.
4
Families with young childrenLikely not ideal due to the full-day length and elevated, sustained trail conditions; families should consider shorter, less demanding rides.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

This is an eight-hour, full-day guided ride operated as a single-day excursion.

Meeting & Logistics

Meet at the operator’s trailhead in Gunlock (see the provided meeting-location link) prior to the ride departure.

What to Bring

Wear jeans, closed-toed shoes or boots and a hat; bring sunscreen, any preferred snacks, and your adventurous spirit. The operator provides water and other essentials.

Meals & Support

A campfire cowboy meal is provided during the ride; the operator supplies water and basic trail essentials.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the ride?

The Real McCoy is an eight-hour, full-day guided ride.

Where do we meet?

Participants meet at the operator’s trailhead in Gunlock; the official meeting location link is provided by the operator.

Is lunch provided?

Yes—participants are served a campfire cowboy meal during the ride.

What should I wear and bring?

Wear jeans, closed-toed shoes (cowboy boots recommended if you have them) and a hat; bring sunscreen and any snacks you prefer. The operator provides water and other essentials.

What level of rider is this for?

The Real McCoy is presented for experienced or adventurous riders rather than novices.