Big Bear Horseback Riding

We visited as a guest of the venue

Did you know that you can go horseback riding in Big Bear? Yes! This mom of adventure had no idea. I’m here to tell you; it is such an amazing way to take in the mountains!

Recently, I was with a group of friends visiting Big Bear, and while a few of us had been on a horse in the past year, some of us hadn’t in about ten years. So we were happy to discover that we could have a guide join us who knew the trail and the behaviors of each horse. Collectively, we were ready to do this and trust our horses to lead the way.

Baldwin Lake Stables in Big Bear pairs each rider with the perfect horse; based on an individual’s body type and experience. I think they have it down to a science, each of our horses either complimented or mirrored our personalities. All saddled up with Oscar, Frisco, Maverick and Dakota; it was time to breathe in the mountain air from a different viewpoint.

As we trotted away from the stables, we began to notice the trees; with the open space around us and the blue sky above. The sound the horse hooves made while we set out on our trail adventure was rhythmic.

We opted for a ride of 2 hours; and spent time on a portion of the famous historic Pacific Crest Trail. It was a gorgeous, cool day with blue sky and the warmth of the sun on our backs felt like a warm hug. The meandering dirt path, with a few switchbacks and the crunching of rocks and brush below; we soon began to relax deeply. When you’re on a horse, you suddenly become one with it and realize you need to be present and take in the moment. There isn’t anything else to be done, other than hold the reigns and look at the beauty around you. It’s incredibly cathartic.

The trail rises gradually and opens to some gorgeous views! One side you see the mountains of Big Bear and on the other, the serene basin of Lucerne Valley. Yes, you can hike this and/or run it, but I’m here to tell you, try it via horseback just once for the experience. I’m a hiker and a runner and never would I have considered the trail on a horse. I’m hooked and want to go take family and friends on a ride to get a taste of it now.

You can also do a sunset ride; this sounds amazing, and I want to plan this for a date night with my guy. You can create your very own postcard memory with a day or sunset ride. Rides are available for 1-2 hours. However, you can also look into longer ride availability.

After growing up in Southern California and being a frequent visitor to Big Bear, my eyes have been opened to horseback riding here. I tend to get pretty excited about new experiences that I really enjoy so I hope it rubs off on you to give it a try. You might find you feel the same and perhaps our paths will cross as we traverse that dusty, yet gorgeous mountain trail.

You can find out more information at: www.baldwinlakestables.com
Rates run about $55/hour and there are a few safety restrictions on height and children must be six years or older.

Darice is a very active mother of a gorgeous daughter. Darice, enjoys a career in sales, surrounded by many friends and family; always taking on another opportunity for growing and networking. A people person who embraces trying new things, helping others, a social butterfly and enjoys cheering on her niece and nephew at soccer and/or volleyball games.