Equine Adventures

The Experience

At the Lodge at Blue Sky we practice a specific style of natural horsemanship that focuses on communicating and working with each horse and their unique personalities. We are excited to offer equine experiences that provide an opportunity to learn more about our horsemanship practices and how we care for, train, and ride our horses. Our trail rides are among our most sought after experiences at Blue Sky and we strongly encourage guests to book their rides well in advance. In addition to trail rides we also offer unique horsemanship lessons and equine wellness experiences which can be discovered in the following pages.

Traditions of Natural Horsemanship

At the ranch, we train our horses in the tradition of Tom and Bill Dorrance, Ray Hunt and the modern day horse whisperer, Buck Brannaman. We believe that our trail horses and our ranch horses should be continually worked on the ground to correct bad habits and ensure the safety and welfare of our riding guests. We work on recognizing the signals that horses give us and we vary the routines to keep it interesting for the horse.

Foundations of Health and Wellness

Horsemanship at Blue Sky is not just about the riding. We believe it starts with how you learn to care for a horse, your sensitivity to how they are feeling and recognizing any health problems that need to be tended to prior to training. We think it's important for the horse to be groomed properly with special attention to diet, supplements and foot care. The ritual of tacking a horse properly and making sure the horse has the proper hydration at all times is key to proper horsemanship. We take our time with the horses and address them as individuals with their own unique needs, limitations and potential.

The Lodge at Blue SKy

Equine Program

White Tail Trail Ride

Discover the beauty of Blue Sky on this walking ride across varied terrain in the foothills of our beautiful mountains.
This is an ideal trail for riders of all levels, and younger guests ages 12 and older
2 hours | May–November | 6 guests max
$500 per guest

Ranch Riding

Practice the art of cowboying with one of our trained cowhands. Learn about and practice the western ranch riding techniques of riding, roping, and cutting in our state of the art Riding Arena. This is a very hands on, fun, and authentic equine experience not to be missed.
1.5 – 2 hours
Children ages 8 and older
$325 per guest

Mountains and Meadows

Saddle up for a true equestrian journey through the mountains, meadows, valleys & creeks at Blue Sky.
3 hours | May-November | Experienced Riders Only | 6 guests max
Children ages 8 and older
$650 per guest

Meet the Vet

The Lodge at Blue Sky is the only guest ranch in North America with their own onsite vet. Learn about our special horses, their basic anatomy, and participate in helping to give them simple treatments. Experience the day-to-day life of our Blue Sky Ranch Herd Veterinarian.
1 Hour | 4 Guests Max | Children ages 8 and older
Monday-Thursday only
$250 per guest

Breathwork

Connect to your breath and with the breath of your horse to achieve a deep level of meditation, relaxation and connection.

1 hour
$275 per guest

Wellness & Love: Animals of Gracie's Farm

Spend your morning exploring the animal care techniques we employ at Gracie’s Farm. At Gracie’s, there isn’t one animal that doesn’t have a special story or personality. During this experience you will get up close and personal with our chickens and horses and assist our rescue staff with their daily enrichment and care. 100% of donation goes directly to Saving Gracie’s.
6 Guests Max | Children ages 8 and older
$225 donation per guest | 1.5 hours

Natural Horsemanship

Experience an introduction to the philosophy and practice of natural horsemanship as you explore the essence of the human/horse relationship through non-verbal communication, action and perception. Guests will work through what we call “groundwork” which will build a foundation of communication and then practice newly found skills in the saddle
1.5 hours | One hour of groundwork and 30 minutes in the saddle
Children ages 8 and older
$275 per guest

Private Riding Experience

Spend an hour in the indoor riding arena with one of our equine instructors. Lessons are highly customizable based on a guest’s comfort and experience. We offer both English and Western disciplines. Lessons are focused on a Natural Horsemanship approach to riding and can include pole work, cavaletti work, dressage, and equitation.
$200 per guest | 1 Hour
Children ages 6 and older | A parent or guardian must be present for kids under 12

The Cowboy Way

Learn the basics of natural horsemanship and cattle moving in the tradition of Ray Hunt and Buck Brannaman. Spend time helping our wranglers ride out and do the real work of the ranch, checking fence, moving cows, and enjoying the scenic trails of Blue Sky
2 hours | June – Sept | Experienced Riders Only | 4 guests max
Children ages 8 and older

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