Saddle Up to the High Saddle: Five Hours to Old Man Mountain’s Panoramic Divide

ESTES PARK HORSE FIELD GUIDE

Saddle Up to the High Saddle: Five Hours to Old Man Mountain’s Panoramic Divide

A five-hour guided trail ride from the Fall River Corridor to the saddle between Old Man and Deer Mountain, offering sweeping views of Estes Park, Lake Estes and the Mummy Range.

Saddle Up to the High Saddle: Five Hours to Old Man Mountain’s Panoramic Divide.

Duration
5 Hours
Location
Estes Park
Operator
National Park Gateway Stables
Category
Horse
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Follow the North Deer Mountain trail through the Fall River corridor, rising to the saddle between Old Man Mountain and Deer Mountain for broad panoramas of the Estes Park valley, Lake Estes and the Continental Divide. The ride threads riverside meadows and overlooks, then returns with views of the Mummy Range—aspens punctuate the route in autumn, making this a memorable, scenic outing.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE LANDSCAPE

Saddle Views of the Continental Divide

The route climbs to the saddle between Old Man Mountain and Deer Mountain, where riders get panoramic vistas of the Continental Divide and a clear read on the Estes Park valley and Lake Estes—an ideal spot for a break and photos.

THE ROUTE

Fall River Corridor & Overlooks

The trail follows the Fall River Corridor and North Deer Mountain trail, with frequent overlooks that frame the river, valley and town below—steady, scenic riding rather than technical terrain.

THE SEASON

Aspen Color and Mummy Range Returns

On the return leg the ride opens to sweeping views of the Mummy Range; in fall the aspens along the way add vivid color to the scenic passage.

What the day feels like

What the Five-Hour Trail Ride Feels Like

This is a steady, scenic trail ride: you follow the river corridor and work up to a high saddle where the guide provides a short break for snacks, a brief hike and photos, then you ride back with extended views of the Mummy Range. The pace and terrain are arranged to maximize outlooks rather than fast gallops—think panoramic pauses and a relaxed return.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this ride suits—and who should look elsewhere.

1
Active FamiliesRecommended for families with children aged 10 and up, this ride offers manageable pace and scenic rewards appropriate for teens and adults.
2
Photographers & Nature WatchersThe repeated overlooks, saddle panorama and fall aspen color make this a good match for travelers seeking landscape and seasonal photography opportunities.
3
Novice RidersSuitable for riders newer to horseback outings provided they meet the minimum age recommendation—expect guided pacing and a focus on views rather than technical riding.
4
Families with Young ChildrenNot ideal for children under 10—the operator recommends participants be age 10 or older.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes; bring a sweatshirt or jacket to layer for wind or chill, plus a hat and a bottle of water. Helmets are provided. For four-hour rides or longer bring snacks or a small meal.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the ride?

This is a five-hour trail ride.

Where do we meet the operator?

Meeting takes place at 4600 Fall River Rd, Estes Park, CO 80517.

Is there an age minimum?

The ride is recommended for ages 10 and up.

Can I bring snacks and take photos?

Yes—guests get a short break at the saddle where they can bring snacks, take a short hike and get pictures.

Are helmets provided?

Helmets are provided by the operator.