Last Updated on March 3, 2022
Venturing out on a trip by yourself can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be with careful planning of horseback riding vacations for singles. Many ranches provide specialist itineraries catering to women and singles. This will give you peace of mind for a safe and comfortable adventure on horseback.
Solo Horseback Riding Vacations for Women
One of the biggest concerns for women traveling alone is their personal safety. Many dude ranches offer women-only or singles packages in the off-season. This provides several benefits for single adult travelers.
When to Book Your Equestrian Vacation
The off-season is cheaper than peak vacation times. Also, these dates tend to be adult-only, have fewer families, and more single people. Also, you may find that some special itineraries are only offered during these months.
Horseback riding vacations for singles aren’t necessarily limited to off-peak times. Plenty of ranches happily welcome singles at any time of year. However, booking in the off-season means that the ranch may not be at full capacity, and the single supplement is waived.
Good Ranch Options for Horseback Riding Vacations for Single Women
If you want to explore the open countryside with your girlfriends or go completely solo without worrying, the following horseback riding vacations are worth considering.
- Relais & Chateau Triple Creek Ranch – Relais & Chateau Triple Creek Ranch is a female-owned ranch in Bitterroot Valley of Darby, Montana. Several years ago the owner set up a women-only equestrian vacation called Klicks for Chicks. This vacation caters to women, who enjoy roughing it a bit, but still want a bit of luxury. At night after a long day of riding, you’re treated to a gourmet dinner and luxury cabins. There’s no freezing cold camping out under the stars here! The luxury aspect of this trip means it won’t be cheap. Triple Creek Ranch is located in western Montana. All of their vacation options are for over sixteens only.
- C Lazy U Ranch – The C Lazy U Ranch is located in Granby, Colorado. This ranch holds women-only trips, which are a great way for single women to socialize safely. Spring and Fall are the best times to visit when special events are held for women or adults only.
- Paws Up Ranch Cowgirl Spring Round-Up – This is a fun option for those who want a women’s only vacation. Paws Up Ranch in Montana hosts this trip every April and features real Cowgirl Hall of Famers. The trip not only includes riding over thousands of acres of Montana wilderness but tons of other outdoor activities. The vacation price is inclusive of luxury accommodation, food, workshops, and transport. This ranch is geared towards families. If you want an adult-only atmosphere, book dates while the kids are still in school.
The three mentioned options are only a taste of the many horseback riding vacations for female singles. Horse riding trips are available, not only in Montana but California, Wyoming, Colorado, and around the world.
Ranches that Welcome Single Horseback Riding Guests
Even though many horseback riding retreats seem geared towards families and couples, some ranches welcome singles year-round.
- Colorado Cattle Company & Guest Ranch – Colorado Cattle Company is hands-on and offers a more rustic environment. The ranch is adult only and provides common areas designed for socializing. Single guests don’t have to pay a single supplement. Guests not only enjoy mingling with other singles and horseback riding but also can dive in to help with everyday chores. You also can take care of your own horse for the duration of your stay.
- Hideout Lodge & Guest Ranch – Hideout Lodge in Shell, Wyoming is a working ranch that limits the number of guests to just 25 a week. Unlike other horseback riding vacations, Hideout Lodge focuses on cattle and riding. Novice and experienced riders are welcome. The ranch employs several female wrangles and prides itself on its welcoming and personal service. The remote location allows you to get away from it all. The ranch welcomes singles year-round.
- Sundance Trail Guest Ranch – While Sundance Trail is a family-orientated western riding ranch, it is popular with singles. Guest numbers are kept low, so singles can easily join in with other guests. Located in Red Feather Lakes, Colorado, the ranch is open during all seasons.
International Horseback Riding Vacations
The United States isn’t the only place to find horseback riding vacations for singles. Outside of the US, you will get something a little different than the dude ranch experience. Ireland is an ideal country to see on horseback.
While you won’t be rounding up cattle in Ireland, horseback riding vacations will take you into the hills to experience breathtaking scenery. Ireland is also welcoming, and relatively safe for single travelers. You will most likely be riding English, not western, which can be more difficult for a novice rider.
If you have an adventurous side, you’ll find riding vacations in South America through the hills of Peru or the African desert. Not all equestrian vacations involve trail riding, you can also spend your trip at a European riding center improving your skills in jumping or dressage.
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Benefits of a Solo Vacation
A solo vacation comes with its benefits. You will have the freedom to do what you want without compromising with a traveling companion. Because you’re on your own, you will be encouraged to meet new people.
Spending time on your own gives you a chance to disconnect from the world’s stresses and reconnect with yourself, without worrying about someone else’s needs. You will be free from the pressure of having to get up and do something.
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Tips for Solo Equestrian Vacations
When thinking about taking a solo riding vacation keep a few things in mind that will help make your trip worthwhile. The first thing you need to consider is your safety, especially if you are a woman. Put local numbers for the police or, if available friends, that live nearby in your phone.
Choose an equestrian vacation that keeps groups small, so it’s easy to fit in with other travelers. Search out ranches that are popular with singles, so you won’t end up being the only person there on their own. If one of your traveling goals is to meet new people, look for ranches that have adult-only weeks or weekends.
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Final Thoughts
If you were concerned the horseriding vacation as a single would leave you sitting in the corner, fear not. This type of trip is a fantastic option for solo travelers. They take place in safe locations and usually in small groups.
Ranch riding trips are particularly popular in the United States, giving you plenty of choices all over the country. If you are an inexperienced rider, look for a ranch that offers help or easy rides. Wherever you choose, a horse riding vacation will help you connect with nature and create unforgettable memories.
If you have any questions, put your comment below.
Is horseback riding a good date?
Horseback riding is a great way to get out of the city and enjoy nature. And, because you are outdoors, there is plenty of room to spread out, relax and enjoy each other’s company. One of the best things about horseback riding trails is that they combine two of the most fun and creative date ideas: horseback riding and picnics. It is perfectly romantic for any couple, whether you are enjoying your first date or are celebrating many years of love together. And it’s not just romantic, it’s a great way to get some quality time together in the fresh air and get to know each other better.
Do horses like to be ridden?
As with all species, horses have adapted to their environment. They have adapted to be ridden. However, horses did not evolve to be ridden. Most horses are okay with being ridden. As far as enjoying being ridden, it’s likely most horses simply tolerate it rather than liking it. However, the answer isn’t definitive and is different for each horse. While horses have long been selectively bred for riding, they didn’t evolve to carry humans. The question is not whether horses like to be ridden, but why they have been selectively bred to be ridden.
Is horse riding painful for horse?
Horse riding doesn’t hurt horses, if done correctly. However, horses can feel pain while riding without us even realizing it. Always make sure your horse is completely healthy and all tack fits correctly before riding. It is often difficult to tell whether your horse is in pain during riding. If you suspect your horse is in pain, be sure to stop riding immediately and take your horse to a veterinarian. There are many ways to tell if your horse is in pain, and it is important to be able to identify the cause of the pain if possible.
Does horseback riding work your abs?
“The more you ride, the more you will build core strength”. That is why horseback riding is one of the best exercises for your abs. Horseback riding works important core muscles: abs, back, pelvis, and thighs. These stabilize the torso while fortifying coordination, stability, balance, and flexibility. This activity is isometric, which means the muscles contract against something that does not move. some other benefits are: increases your coordination and agility, reduces back pain, strengthens your legs, strengthens your heart and lungs, improves your posture, strengthens your immune system, etc.
Do you need strong legs to ride a horse?
The best way to get stronger legs is by riding a horse. Horse riders need strong legs for balance, cueing, safety and an overall better ride. Strengthening your legs will improve your balance, and coordination. At the same time it will boost your metabolism so you burn more calories. For instance, if you are riding your horse for 20 minutes a day, you will burn about 100 calories. When you strengthen your legs, you are increasing your muscle mass, which will improve your stamina.
Michael Dehaan is a passionate horse owner, horse rider, and lover of all things equine. He has been around horses since he was a child, and has grown to become an expert in the field. He has owned and ridden a variety of horses of different breeds, and has trained many to compete in shows and competitions. He is an experienced horseman, having worked with and competed many horses, including his own. He is an active member of the equestrian community, participating in events and teaching riding lessons.