*RIDE TIMES VARY
*RIDES MAY BE CANCELLED BY THE RANCH DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER, DANGEROUS TRAIL CONDITIONS, ETC. IN WHICH CASE GUESTS WILL RECEIVE A FULL REFUND FOR THEIR RIDE
*RIDES CANCELLED BY GUESTS WITHIN 48 HOURS OF SCHEDULED RIDE WILL BE CHARGED THE FULL AMOUNT OF THE RIDE
*GUESTS WHO ARRIVE LATER THAN THEIR SCHEDULED ARRIVAL TIME ARE SUBJECT TO LOSE THAT RIDE TIME AND BE CHARGED THE FULL AMOUNT OF THE RIDE. A NEW RIDE TIME MAY BE OFFERED BASED ON AVAILABILITY, BUT IS NOT GUARENTEED.
Participant Qualification Standards
For safety reasons, participant must be in good physical condition and able to control the horse on the trail. Participant must be able to start, stop, and turn the horse as well
as get on and off in the case of an emergency. Participant must
be under 225 lbs. Depending on the ride, participant must be over
8yrs or 12 yrs of age. For safety reasons, participant must
understand the english language or have an interpreter present.
For donkey rides participant must be over 3
years of age and under 70lbs. A guardian must be available to
walk along with their minor on the donkey ride.
Q:When are you open?
A: We are open year round weather permitting. We operate trail rides
7 days a week at 9am, 12pm, and 3pm.
Q: Can you accomodate walk ins or same day customers?
A: We highly suggest making advanced reservations, but it is possible that
you could catch us between tours and be added to a tour same-day.
Q: Can I trot or canter on the trail ride?
A: Our trails are considered scenic and rugged. They are not
condusive for riding fast. A horse may trot up a hill or speed up to
catch up to the string, but we ask that our customers help us keep our
horses at a slow and steady walking pace. The trails are exhilerating and
some are not for timid riders.
Please see "Horseback Riding" page for ride descriptions.
Q: I have never ridden a horse before, can I go on a trail ride? Is there an age minimum?
A: We offer trail rides for all level of riders, including beginners. Riders must be at least 8yrs old or 12yrs old depending on the ride. For children that are under 70 lbs and at least 3 years old we have hand led donkey rides. Please check for availablility by calling 707-494-4449
Q: Do you have a weight limit for riders?
A: Our weight limits are determined by the strength and ability of our horses. At this time our weight limit is 225lbs. If you are over 225 lbs, please give us a call before you book your ride and we will let you know if we have a horse available for you at that time.
Q:How many people are in each group?
A:One guide will be assigned for up to 6 people. If your group is larger than 6 you must book over the phone and we can discuss details.
Q:Can I take pictures while on the ride?
A:Cameras and cellphones may be brought and put in the guide's saddle bag for photos during the ride. During your ride, the guide will take pictures of you with your camera or cellphone in front of our beautiful views.
Q:Can I take a backpack with me?
A:No, you cannot bring bags, backpacks, or purses on the ride. Please leave these items behind as we do not want you getting things from the bags and then dropping them on the trail.
Q:Can I bring a water bottle?
A: Yes, if you have a personal water bottle you may bring it with you, otherwise we have bottled water at the ranch. Sometimes for the shorter rides it is easier to get a drink before participating and let the horse do the work for you.
Q:Can I ride in shorts?
A:We strongly recommend long pants for your comfort and protection.
Q: Can I wear sandals or flip flops?
A: No open toed shoes are allowed on the ride. Tennis shoes or sneakers are appropriate to wear and of course riding boots if you have them.
Q:Can I wear a hat?
A: A baseball cap is fine to wear; however, a hat with a brim must be secured around your chin.
Q: Do I need to understand English to participate on the ride?
A: One of the requirements to participate on our trail rides is to have the ability to understand the English language. This requirement is for safety purposes and the need to respond appropriately to instructions given by our guides while on the horse.
Q: What else should I wear/bring to my ride?
A: If you have your own riding helmet you are most welcome to bring that. We do have helmets on hand if you don't have one, all minors are required to wear a helmet and we strongly suggest our adult customers wear them as well. In the summer Lake Sonoma/Healdsburg area can be very hot during the day and cool in the mornings, so remember to dress appropriately for the weather forecasted for our area the day of your ride. It is also recommended that you bring insect repellant that includes DEET. Another great repellant is PERMETHRIN which is sprayed on clothing before your ride. We also carry insect repellant at the ranch if you forget yours at home. If you printed out your waiver online, your are most welcome to bring that as well!
Q: I am excited that The Ranch at Lake Sonoma is offering equestrian experiences at the park, what can I do to help?
A: The Ranch at Lake Sonoma is very grateful to give the public the opportunity to enjoy the largest and one of the most beautiful parks in Sonoma via horseback. The best way to help is to review us on Google, "Like" us on Facebook, mention us to your friends on social media, talk about us in town and for goodness sakes.... book your ride today!
*FOR COPIES OF OUR LIABILITY FORMS PLEASE SEND US A REQUEST BY E-MAIL