Rough Riders Ranch

Joe wears many hats, apart from his Davy Crockett-style hat. He is a veteran, DJ, entrepreneur, equestrian, historian, and hospitable trail guide. I scheduled a 1 hour trail ride with him and had an absolute blast, despite the snow and cool temperatures. Even as an experienced rider, I was able to enjoy the scenic trails with Joe, learn some history, and get to know Joe. He has 4 horses, named after states. I rode Missouri, a spunky and energetic gelding. Joe was very flexible and willing to adjust the ride to my experience and time available. Joe took the time to get me acclimated and gives everyone a brief lesson once they get on to be sure that the rider can direct the horse.nI had a smile on my face the whole ride, it was so much fun. I will be back as soon as I can! Thank you so much, Joe!

We will be going back!nnMy husband and I just went to Joe’s property and did horseback riding on the snow. Although we couldn’t ride the usual long trail, he took us along a town road, a private snowy road, and we went to a nearby frozen waterfall— it was absolutely gorgeous and we loved it!nnMy husband was a first time rider and I personally haven’t ridden in over 10 years, so we are both definitely beginners. He was incredibly friendly, helpful, and of course, knowledgeable on how to properly ride. He gave us an introduction session and made sure we were comfortable riding/knew how to handle the horses. Joe is a very straightforward man and clear with his instructions (he is an expert, after all), and so we felt safe doing what he told us to do (since we’re beginners). Throughout the whole 1.5 hour session (I believe he offers 1 and 1.5 hour sessions), he rode in front of us to check the ice and made sure to ask if we wanted to trot or gallop and for how long— he knew we were beginners but wanted to give us the option. He was also very talkative and friendly. I can see why he might come off as rude (see other reviews on here), but you have to keep in mind that he is a veteran and has a certain personality that most of us might not be used to. He’s in his 50’s-60’s, has experienced A LOT, he’s had a very different life from people like me (I’m 26) and that just comes with it’s own stuff. We didn’t find him to be rude at all or condescending. He’s just straightforward, which is something I feel we don’t come across nowadays. Just be nice, listen to what he says, and don’t do anything stupid, duh.nnMy husband and I will be returning in the spring/summer, so we can do the full trail. We had a great experience today and liked Joe’s personality and history stories!nnOh! And his horses are beautiful, a good size, and have great names (mine was called Montana!).nnWould 100% recommend.

This was hands down the best horseback riding experience I have ever had. My ten year old son had never ridden a horse before, and even though it was snowing, Joe took the time to teach him properly and we headed out. He also gives a history lesson and keeps the traditions and history of riding alive. The trails are the real deal: river crossings, inclines and declines, as well as beautiful forested trails, not just some flat wide boring terrain. Joe’s heart is absolutelynin the right place, and he gives a lesson at the beginning to gauge your ability as well as excellent suggestions through out the ride to improve one’s abilities. Would highly recommend to all ages! We will be back.

Great place. First time rider and was taught how to ride safely and with confidence. Will definitely go back.

With my girlfriend being a complete beginner and myself only having a few riding experiences, we were not sure what to expect but Joe (the owner) was so great and gave as an amazing experience. He gives you a lesson at the beginning and then you go off onto a beautiful trail through the woods and over streams. We felt so comfortable on our horses the entire tell and could tell they were very well trained and well behaved horses. You can tell Joe loves the horses and taking people on tours. We would certainly return; thank you Joe!