LOS CERRILLOS HORSE FIELD GUIDE
Hilltop Vistas and Hidden Turquoise: A Private Guided Ride Above Los Cerrillos
A professional wrangler leads a private 1- or 2-hour horseback ride through New Mexico desert to a hilltop vista, with potential access to a Native American turquoise mine on the 2-hour option.
Hilltop Vistas and Hidden Turquoise: A Private Guided Ride Above Los Cerrillos.
This guided private ride from Turquoise Hills Riding Company threads through Cerrillos State Park’s evergreen desert—pinyon, sage, cholla and ancient juniper—ascending gentle hills to a hilltop turnaround with sweeping views of the Ortiz and Sandia ranges and, on the two-hour option, rare access to a Native American turquoise mine usually closed to the public.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Evergreen Desert and Mountain Panoramas
The route climbs through classic New Mexico high desert—pinyon, sage, cholla and aromatic juniper—culminating in exclusive views of the Ortiz and Sandia mountain ranges from the ride’s hilltop turnaround.
A Varied Out-and-Back Through Cerrillos State Park
Rides pass through Cerrillos State Park, ascend gentle hills to a scenic summit and return via a different route for one of the most varied horseback experiences in the state.
Rare Mine Access on the Longer Ride
On the two-hour private ride there is a potential opportunity to view a Native American turquoise mine that is not otherwise accessible to the public, an uncommon addition to a daytime trail ride.
What the day feels like
What the Ride Feels Like
Led by a professional wrangler and trail guide, the private ride unfolds as a relaxed climb through evergreen desert to a hilltop vista where your group can pause for photos atop the horses; guests may be offered chances to trot or canter depending on group experience and the wrangler’s safety assessment.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this ride suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The private ride options include a 1- or 2-hour duration; the standard listed duration is 1 hour 15 minutes.
Please arrive 30 minutes early to check in, get fitted and meet your wrangler before the ride departs.
Ask your wrangler before the ride about options to trot or canter; the wrangler will determine what’s appropriate based on the group’s overall experience and safety.
All riders must be physically capable of mounting, riding and dismounting, fit the stirrups and saddle comfortably and be sober; the wrangler may turn riders away in the name of safety.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the ride?
Private rides are offered as 1- or 2-hour options; the standard listed duration is 1 hour 15 minutes.
When should I arrive?
Guests are asked to arrive 30 minutes early to check in and prepare before the ride.
Can I canter or trot during the ride?
Ask your wrangler before the ride about canter or trot options; the wrangler will decide based on the group’s overall experience and safety considerations.
Will we see the turquoise mine?
There is a potential opportunity to view a Native American turquoise mine on the two-hour rides; that access is not otherwise available to the public.
Who is allowed to ride?
All riders must be physically capable of riding, able to mount and dismount, fit the saddle and stirrups comfortably, and be sober. The wrangler may refuse participation or alter plans for safety.
Is the ride private and customizable?
The experience is a guided private ride that can be scheduled as a 1- or 2-hour outing and led by a professional wrangler to match your group’s needs.