Riding is how this country was first crossed, and a guided horseback ride is one of the most natural ways to experience the Tetons. This ride, run by Heart Six Ranch, leaves from a working guest ranch in the valley north of Jackson near Moran and heads out across open meadow and sagebrush with the Teton Range ahead and the wide valley floor below. The guides match riders to horses, give a short lesson for beginners and keep a steady, comfortable walking pace through the best of the scenery. The ride is offered in different lengths, with a standard session of around one and a half hours and longer rides of two or four hours, so check which length suits your group before you book. It is a good fit for first-time riders and families with children old enough to sit on a horse, and for experienced riders who simply want to see the valley from a saddle. The season follows the weather and typically spans the summer months, and light layers, long trousers and closed shoes are essential. Wildlife such as deer, elk and the occasional moose or bird of prey may appear, and the scenery is the point. The ranch also runs dinner-cookout rides and winter snow activities, which suit the same guests.
A horse changes the pace of a landscape. On foot you rush to a viewpoint; on a horse you move through the grass at walking speed and the whole valley opens slowly. The ride sets out from the ranch corrals, crosses open meadows and follows trails with the Tetons above the horizon, and the guide pauses at the best photo points. Because horses follow the horse in front, the ride is controlled and suitable for beginners, but an alert, relaxed rider will enjoy it more.
Preparation helps. Wear long trousers, closed-toe shoes or boots with a small heel, and layers that you can add or remove, since the valley can be cool in the morning and hot by midday. Bring sunscreen, a hat that stays on and water. Riders are matched to horses by weight and ability, and guides explain basic commands at the start. If you have back problems or are pregnant, ask the ranch before booking. Children usually have a minimum age and height, so confirm the rules for your group.
Choosing the ride. The shorter ride is a good introduction, while the longer options cover more ground and give more time away from the road. Evening cookout rides add a meal and the sunset light, which many visitors consider the best way to see the valley. The ranch is a short drive from the Moran entrance to Grand Teton National Park, so the ride can pair with a morning at Oxbow Bend or Jenny Lake.
Fit
First-time riders, families, couples and anyone who wants a classic Western experience with big mountain views. Riders with their own camera should use a wrist strap or a secured pocket, since both hands are often needed on the reins, and it helps to take most photographs during the guide's planned pauses. Check the weather the evening before, as thunderstorms can move through the valley on summer afternoons and rides may be rescheduled.
What to expect
The experience
A guided horseback ride from Heart Six Ranch near Moran, across open meadows with views of the Teton Range.
Best time
The summer season, in the morning or evening when the light is soft and the valley is cooler.
How long
About one and a half hours for the standard ride, with longer options of two or four hours.
Tips
Wear long trousers and closed shoes, bring sun protection and confirm the age, height and weight rules before booking.
Quick picks
- Best for
- A slow, scenic way to see the Tetons from a saddle.
- Families
- Suits children who meet the age and height rules; guides match horses to riders.
- Couples
- An evening ride with the mountains in sunset light.
- Pair with
- Oxbow Bend, Jenny Lake and Mormon Row.
- Time needed
- Two hours with travel for the standard ride.
Good questions
Do we need riding experience?+
No. Guides match riders to horses and give a short lesson, and the ride goes at a walking pace.
How long are the rides?+
The standard ride is about one and a half hours, with longer rides of two or four hours also offered. Check the length when booking.
What should we wear?+
Long trousers, closed shoes or boots, layers and a hat. Bring sunscreen and water.
When does it run?+
It is a summer-season activity that follows the weather; confirm dates when you book.
Can children ride?+
There is a minimum age and height, so confirm the rules for your group before booking.
