Colorado Horseback Riding at Bar Lazy J Guest Ranch

Rocky Mountain Colorado Horseback Riding from Bar Lazy J

Whether you are new to horseback riding, a very experienced rider or somewhere in between, we have the perfect horse waiting for you. We are proud to maintain our own herd of over 100 top notch horses, which accommodates all levels of riding ability. Our experienced horse wranglers carefully consider your skills before pairing you with YOUR personal horse during your stay here at the ranch. Not only that, you’ll receive personalized instruction and helpful tips to maximize your Colorado horseback riding opportunities and form a strong bond with your horse. No matter your level of confidence, we are confident in preparing our guests for the next level of horsemanship they are ready to experience.

You’ll be interviewed at breakfast and lunch to find out what adventures YOU feel like enjoying that morning and afternoon, or whether you’ll be partaking in some of the other ranch activities or amenities instead.

The choice is always yours!

The ideal location for Colorado Horseback Riding

Bar Lazy J is situated in a lush valley surrounded by public land in every direction. Our daily rides offer a wide variety of terrain—including the Arapaho National Forest’s sage-covered hills, beautiful river valleys, and high into the Rocky Mountains with sapphire skies and crystal clear views. Ages 13 and up get to ride with our exciting adult riding program and means they can join the fun on all of the Scenic, Moderate and Adventure rides we offer twice daily. Even if you’ve ridden for decades, you’ll find our extensive riding program safe, challenging, and most definitely FUN! Our guided rides are partly conducted on public lands under special permit from the BLM and the U.S. Forest Service. (And now for the legal verbiage we’re asked to provide: **All or part of this operation is conducted on Public Lands under special permit from the U.S. Bureau of Land Management.)

In addition to our daily rides we offer these specialty rides throughout the week:

group of horseback riders heading to breakfast

Breakfast Ride:

Start your Wednesday morning with a light snack before heading down to the barn, where you’ll gather for single and group family photos to capture the memories. Then, it’s time to saddle up and hit the trail together for a scenic ride to our Breakfast Site along the beautiful Colorado River. You’ll have to cross it to get there and be sure to smile at our photographer capturing the moment! When you arrive at the breakfast site, the aroma of a campfire-cooked meal will welcome you. While our skilled wranglers tie up the horses, you can warm your hands around a steaming cup of coffee brewed right by the fire. Then, treat yourself to our legendary specialty pancakes, complemented by an assortment of hearty delights: scrambled eggs, roasted potatoes with peppers, sizzling bacon, and savory sausage—all cooked fresh over the fire. Don’t miss our homemade biscuits and jam, a favorite among guests, as you relax by the river. It’s the perfect spot for more family photos or simply soaking in the tranquil surroundings.

After breakfast, the adventure continues! Riders will break off into groups based on their chosen experience: Scenic, Moderate, Adventure, or Kids’ rides. Each group will follow a unique trail back to the ranch, giving everyone a chance to enjoy a ride tailored to their preferences. For those craving more time in the saddle, the excitement doesn’t have to end at breakfast. Join our All-Day Ride option, where you’ll venture deeper into the wilderness and enjoy lunch on the trail before returning to the ranch.

Once back, there’s still plenty to do! If you’re up for it, wrap up your day with a thrilling ride on the Zip-Line. It’s the perfect way to end an unforgettable Wednesday at the ranch!

Half-Day Stagecoach Inn Ride:

Friday we offer the unique opportunity to ride over the Parshall Divide on the original stagecoach route in the 1800s. You’ll stop for photos and a stretch at one of our favorite scenic spots—the top of Parshall Divide—before working your way down into the town of Hot Sulphur Springs. There, we’ll head to the historic Stagecoach Inn for some brief, fun history, a beverage of choice and a delicious hot lunch–all on us! We’ll trailer the horses home while you relax and send a vehicle to pick you up after lunch!

High-Country Colorado Horseback Riding:

Be sure to sign up if you’re eager to experience one of Jerry’s legendary High Country Rides, offering the very best in Colorado horseback riding through stunning Rocky Mountain terrain. On the morning of your adventure, your packed lunches will be carefully stowed in saddlebags as we load the horses into the trailers and make our way to the trailhead.

After a short drive, we’ll bridle up and embark on a journey into the trees. These breathtaking rides will take you to the top of some of the highest peaks around where you’ll have a chance to ride trails rarely touched and witness views rarely seen. A Bar Lazy J exclusive! You’ll have to come back multiple years to do them all!

Bushwhacking Rides:

On many of our trails, we have the chance to hit the open range where we know some “sweet spots” for hunting antlers, bones and other natural findings. In designated areas, we’ll spread out and explore the hills of sage with gorgeous views of the valley and surrounding mountain ranges.

Horse/Rider Challenge Course:

Another unique offering at Bar Lazy J is our horse and rider Challenge Course. Each year, we modify existing and offer new obstacles to continually challenge even seasoned horse and riders. Our wranglers will teach you the horsemanship skills to work with YOUR horse to improve your trust and communication with one another. Learn the building blocks of teaching your horse to overcome “scary” situations and build their confidence while simultaneously building yours. Cross bridges, close gates, cross tarps, step up platforms, walk under hanging fingers and more. This Colorado horseback riding experience is an excellent activity for both novice and experienced riders! Even the Kids Riding Program gets an afternoon on the course.