LOVELAND HORSE FIELD GUIDE
Ridge‑Top Canter: Two Hours Across Sylvan Dale’s 3,200‑Acre Backcountry
A guided, two‑hour horseback ride west of Loveland that carries riders of all abilities across ridges, cottonwood gulches and old wagon trails—this guide orients you to the route, safety rules and what to bring.
Ridge‑Top Canter: Two Hours Across Sylvan Dale’s 3,200‑Acre Backcountry.
Just west of Loveland, Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch opens 3,200 acres of Colorado terrain to guided trail rides: shaded gulches, old wagon tracks on Alexander Mountain, rocky climbs on Eagle Ridge and meadow crossings on Green Ridge, all stitched together with ridge‑top viewpoints that define the ranch’s signature Rim Ride.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Ridge‑top views across 3,200 acres
Sylvan Dale’s rides rise from cottonwood‑shaded gulches to exposed ridgelines and meadows, delivering broad views from the Rim Ride and vantage points along Eagle and Green ridges.
A varied trail network for every stride
The trail options range from gentle, shaded stretches in Sulzer Gulch to old wagon trails on Alexander Mountain and rocky slope climbs—routes that showcase the ranch’s varied terrain.
Wranglers and a walk‑paced line
All rides are led by qualified Sylvan Dale wranglers and are run at a walking pace, organized as single‑file trail rides to accommodate riders of differing experience.
What the day feels like
How the two‑hour ride unfolds
For two hours you move at a deliberate walking pace, led by ranch wranglers who tailor the line to the least experienced rider; the loop threads cottonwood‑lined gulches, meadow flats and steeper scrambling sections to deliver panoramic rim views without demanding advanced riding skills.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this ride suits—and who should check alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring water, closed‑toed shoes, long pants, sun protection, hat and a jacket as needed. Helmets are available but you may bring your own. Backpacks are not allowed on rides; saddle bags can be provided.
The ride lasts two hours.
Sylvan Dale is located just west of Loveland and is an easy drive from Fort Collins and Greeley.
All rides are accompanied by a Sylvan Dale wrangler; trail routing may be limited to dirt roads in rain, snow or muddy conditions for safety.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the scenic trail ride?
The ride is two hours long.
Where is the ride based and how do I get there?
Rides depart from Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch, located just west of Loveland and within easy driving distance of Fort Collins and Greeley.
What are the age and weight restrictions?
Trail riders must be at least 10 years old and there is a 240‑pound weight limit; double riding is not allowed.
Do I need prior riding experience?
No—rides are suitable for all skill levels and are geared to the least experienced rider, conducted at a walking pace in single file.
What should I bring on the ride?
Bring water, closed‑toed shoes, long pants, sun protection, a hat and a jacket as needed; helmets are available or you can bring your own. Backpacks are not allowed; saddle bags can be provided.
What happens in bad weather?
In inclement weather such as rain, snow or mud, rides may be limited to the ranch’s dirt roads due to unsafe trail conditions.