From verdant palm oases to Joshua trees set among massive granite boulders, the California desert is home to a surprising range of scenery. For those seeking a wildly different guided adventure, horseback riding is a more immersive way to explore the landscape, giving you time to notice details you might otherwise miss. These outfitter-led trail rides range from beginner-friendly tours to longer backcountry treks, each offering a different perspective on the desert.

Knob Hill Ranch (Yucca Valley)

Set just outside Joshua Tree National Park, Knob Hill Ranch has access to more than 250 miles of equestrian trails that wind through slot canyons, dry washes and open desert. The large ranch offers one- and two-hour rides, as well as longer half-day options that can be adjusted to suit your experience level and schedule. One of the standout routes is the four-hour Panorama ride, which skirts the western edge of Black Rock Canyon Campground before climbing steadily toward higher ground. For a more hands-on experience, the five-hour “Wrangler Special” helps riders build confidence while navigating more varied terrain. These routes move beyond mellow washes into steeper, more technical sections, linking together desert trails that pass through narrow canyons and ridgelines with wide-open views.

In addition to trail rides, Knob Hill Ranch offers lessons, private photoshoots and the option to stay overnight in a three-bedroom ranch house on the property — ideal if you’re looking to turn a ride into a full desert getaway. Knob Hill Ranch is the only licensed equestrian outfitter in Joshua Tree National Park.

Crazy Horse Ranch (Morongo Valley)

Set against the rugged terrain of Morongo Valley, an adventure with Crazy Horse Ranch has a decidedly intimate feel. Owner Jacklyn Simmons, a Wyoming native and lifelong rider, brings a natural horsemanship approach to the ranch, which emphasizes trust, communication and a deeper connection between horse and rider. The ranch specializes in private trail rides for individuals and small groups, with each outing tailored to the rider’s comfort level, experience and goals. 

Beginners can enjoy a one- or two-hour ride on a mellow horse, while more experienced equestrians can enjoy the trails at higher gaits and speeds when conditions allow. For travelers who want a taste of ranch life, the “Cowboy 4 A Day” experience includes hands-on horse care, riding and a ranch-style lunch during a full-day, seven-hour program. Crazy Horse Ranch also offers private lessons, clinics, horse boarding and special events. Reservations are required, and guests should plan to arrive 30 minutes early for paperwork and saddle fitting.

Smoke Tree Stables (Palm Springs) 

With regularly scheduled group trail rides that explore the oasis in Indian Canyons, Smoke Tree Stables has the most scenic horseback riding experiences in Palm Springs. This family-run outfitter also runs private guided outings, but all routes showcase the striking contrast between the desert and lush canyons filled with palm trees.

For the signature Murray Canyon haul ride, Smoke Tree Stables trailers the horses into Indian Canyons, where riders follow streams and meander through native California fan palm groves. The 90-minute ride meanders between Andreas Canyon and Murray Canyon, and it’s a rare chance to experience the desert’s hidden water sources from the saddle. For a more personalized experience, private guided rides are available for an additional fee, offering a quieter, one-on-one connection. Smoke Tree Stables also hosts equine-assisted therapy programs, where guided interactions with horses focus on themes like mindfulness, boundaries and self-awareness. Reservations are required, and advance booking is especially recommended during peak season.

Cascade Trails Mustang Sanctuary (Joshua Tree)

Cascade Trails Mustang Sanctuary is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of mustangs, and over the years, they’ve also become a popular spot for trail riding in the high desert. The sanctuary offers one-hour sunrise and sunset trail rides on their 50-acre property, plus lessons, equine therapy, one-on-one equine experiences and even photo shoots. In addition to over 20 rescued horses, the sanctuary is also home to a handful of goats, chickens and dogs, making this a dream trip for animal lovers of any age. 

Glamping enthusiasts will take delight in the accommodations, which include half a dozen bell tents and a geodome, plusthree primitive campsites. The bell tents have bedding, portable heaters and camp tables, and though there is a shared mobile toilet, some units have outdoor showers. The geodome has its own restroom and shower, and all units are spaced out across the ranch, giving guests maximum privacy.

Furnace Creek Stables (Death Valley National Park)

Furnace Creek Stables offers a range of horseback riding tour options in Death Valley National Park, and all of them feel like you’ve traveled back in time to the old Wild West. One and two-hour daytime trail rides run regularly, along with one-hour sunrise and sunset rides, which are the most popular. However, the one-hour moonlight trail ride is perhaps the most unique option, making for an unforgettable blue hour adventure (pictured above). Timed around the full moon for just a few days each month, you’ll explore the vast desert landscape just after sunset. Dust glows under the full moon, and if you’re lucky, you’ll hear howls from distant coyotes as the first stars start to twinkle in the sky. Riders must be at least 13 years old for the moonlight ride, but guests ages seven and up (with a minimum height of 48 inches) are welcome on all other tours. 

Reservations are required, and Furnace Creek Stables are open from November through mid-May. The stables are located next to the Ranch at Death Valley, just steps from restaurants, a general store and lodging.