Horseback Riding

     While Three Bars Ranch offers a variety of different activities, the world class riding program is what puts Three Bars in a class of its own. The riding program was developed and is overseen directly by the Beckley Family. Nowhere else in the world will you find this combination of great horses, beautiful riding terrain, and the experience of world class horsemen.

Horse Selection
     Three Bars Guest Ranch is home to over 110 head of horses. Our horse-to-guest ratio is over 2-to-1, allowing us to suit horses to each rider's individual ability and experience level. Our horses range from kid’s horses that are "bomb proof" all the way through to young horses suitable for more experienced riders. So, whether you’re an old hand or someone who needs a little hand, you can be sure you will enjoy your time in the saddle. Your horse will be just that—YOUR horse for the week. He will be ready and waiting for you every morning of your stay. Once you find a saddle that suits you it will be yours for the week as well.

The Rides
     While riding is always an option at Three Bars it is never mandatory. Some guest never miss a ride and others only ride once or twice. Rides are organized by the head wrangler at the meal before. Ride options include family rides, adult rides, kid’s rides, walking rides, and fast rides. The first rides leave the corral right after breakfast and return to the ranch for lunch. Afternoon rides leave our corrals between 1:00 and 1:30. Fast rides are available to experienced riders after one full day of riding at Three Bars. Once a week an all day ride is offered, where you pack a lunch and ride for the day. A breakfast ride is also offered once a week, where you ride out a little early and have a hot breakfast on the trail.

The Trails
     Three Bars Ranch is set in the crown of the continent and truly one of the most beautiful places on earth. With over 75,000 acres to roam there is literally no end to the possibilities for you to explore. The ranch is nestled up against the mountains with the St. Mary's River running on the edge of the property to the North. Perry Creek and the Perry Creek Valley run to the West where the ranch cattle run on open range for the summer, with thousands of acres to graze. Every day the rides explore this truly diverse landscape. So whether you prefer a high mountain lookout, or a cool afternoon ride by the river you are sure to loose yourself in this remarkable place.

Riding Requirements
     Horseback riding is a very physical activity, one which requires balance, stamina and strength. Anyone who is physically fit can learn to ride. We do not have a maximum weight, there are some very heavy, active people whom riding suits well. Kids must be at least 6 years old to ride at the ranch. Parents who want their children to wear a helmet while riding, must bring their own. It is mandatory that everyone wear a riding boot for safety. If you do not have riding boots, the ranch has cowboy boots for rent in the ranch store. This is perfect for children with growing feet.

Safety
     Horseback Riding is a fun an enjoyable activity that anyone can enjoy. Don’t be intimidated by the level of horsemanship at Three Bars, you don’t need to be a pro to fit in. On average 1/3 of our guests have never ridden a horse before. While at the ranch your safety is the wranglers #1 concern. We will never put you in a position where you are not comfortable. There are opportunities for more advanced rides to ride together, and for beginners to move at their own pace. While the Ranch offers a full lesson program, the wranglers strive every day to improve your riding skills. “The best way for us to make you a safer rider, is for us to make you a better rider" says April Beckley.