5 Top Spots to Saddle Up for Horseback Riding Branson MO Locals Love

Jan 31, 2024

5 Top Spots to Saddle Up for Horseback Riding Branson MO Locals Love
By Westgate Resorts

5 Top Spots to Saddle Up for Horseback Riding Branson, MO, Locals Love

Imagine yourself settled atop a horse as you wander through a trail through the Ozark Mountains. Your adventure to Branson, Missouri, has been filled with breathtaking scenic views, and now, you find yourself surrounded by thousands of years’ of nature and nothing but the soft sound of horse hooves beneath you as your guide leads the way.

When building your Branson itinerary, you can’t leave horseback riding in the Ozark Mountains off your list. Riding through the mountains and winding trails is one of the best ways to experience Branson like a local, and you won’t soon forget the magic of riding.

Best Horseback Riding in Branson, MO

Outdoor living is a way of life for Branson locals, and horseback riding is one of their favorite pastimes. When it’s time to embark on your next Midwest adventure, hop on the back of a trusty steed and enjoy the beautiful views.

These guided horseback rides and Ozark Mountain Trail rides are the best way to see a new side of Branson. Let’s giddy up!

1 | Bear Creek Trail Rides | There are two famous trails in Branson, MO: Bear Creek and the Ozark Mountain Trail. You can book a ride for either (or both!) with Bear Creek Trail Rides. The family-friendly excursions are suitable for riders ages 7 and up.

A visit to the family’s stunning 330-acre property will kickstart your adventure. From there, you’ll saddle up and go on one of the guided horseback rides to experience the magnificent water crossing at Bear Creek or meander through the Shepherd of the Hills set on the Ozark Mountain Trail.

WHERE: 3400 US Hwy 65 Walnut Shade, MO 65771 | WHO: (417) 337-7708

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2 | Dogwood Canyon National Park | Beautiful Dogwood Canyon is a nature preserve rich in scenery, languid rivers, towering trees and miles of clear blue sky. The park’s riding services are available as a one-hour or two-and-a-half-hour lunch ride. Before you head out with your guide, stop by Little Indian Stables and meet the adorably trained horses.

Riders must be at least 8 years old and 48” tall to participate on the rides, and there is a weight limit of 250 pounds. Throughout the trip, you’ll explore peaceful hollows, old logging roads and beautiful ridges.

WHERE: 2038 West State Hwy 86, Lampe, Missouri 65681 | WHO: (800) 456-4812

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3 | Lazy B Ranch Trail Rides | This veteran-owned and operated business offers guided horseback rides, cowboy campfire cookouts, hayrides, family-friendly games and even take-home fire-branded boards. Just a short, scenic drive from Branson, you’ll find the ranch in Bradleyville.

Trail rides through breathtaking glades in the Ozark Mountains take place at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. in the spring, summer and fall. Winter rides occur once per day at 1:30 p.m. Riders must weigh under 250 pounds and be at least 10 years old to ride.

This family-friendly adventure is one that’s best for families with slightly older kids, since children must be old enough and comfortable riding their own horse.

Don’t forget to buy a $1 bag of grain and feed the cattle!

WHERE: 2100 Cedar Hollow Rd Bradleyville, MO 65614 | WHO: (417) 543-3139

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4 | The Good Shepherd Ranch | From unique driving experiences to the famous Clydesdale Experience, a trip to The Good Shepherd Ranch takes you on a magnificent journey through the Ozark Mountains.

The ranch is home to gorgeous Clydesdale horses, gentle giants who stand up to 6-feet tall and weigh between 1,600 to 1,800 pounds. These magnificent trained horses are super friendly and gentle, and they make the perfect companions on a trail ride through sparkling rivers and quiet forests.

The whole family is welcome to experience the magic of The Clydesdale Experience. Be sure to reach out and inquire about age requirements and any weight limits before booking!

WHERE: 595 Howell Rd Taneyville, MO 65759 | WHO: (417) 545-0434

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5 | Shepherd of the Hills Historic Homestead Tour | Ozark Mountain Trail Rides with the Shepherd of the Hills Historic Homestead feature one-hour rides through the Ozark Hills. The heavily shaded area is perfect for riding on warmer days when the hot Missouri sun is shining its brightest.

Your tour will take you past the famous Old Mill Theater, and you’ll even be riding one of the horses used in the long-standing outdoor drama!

WHERE: 5585 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616 | WHO: (417) 334-4191

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Discover More Things to Do in Branson, MO

When you’re planning your trip to one of the best Branson resorts, make sure you consider local attractions like horseback riding, hiking trails and the best restaurants.

The Westgate Resorts Travel Blog can help you tap into all the hidden secrets and overlooked attractions that will show you a new side of Branson and other cities across the U.S. Check it out!


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At Westgate Resorts, when you Check-In, there’s a LOT to Check-Out! Your vacation awaits! Start planning your next vacation today or talk with a vacation planner at 888-852-2959 or 407-355-2690.

* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.

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