South Mountain Horseback Riding

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While all trails ​​city-wide are open to horseback riding, there are certain trails that are not recommended for horses.  A review of trails can be found on our trails map page.​

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Recommended Equestrian Trails and Staging Areas at South Mountain Park South Mountain Park

  • Desert Classic Trail:  Highly recommended. Accessed from Pima Canyon or Beverly Canyon trailhead.

  • Beverly Canyon Trail:  Highly recommended. Accessed from the Beverly Canyon trailhead.

  • Javalina Trail:  Accessed from the Beverly Canyon trailhead.

  • Pima Wash Trail:  Highly recommended. Accessed from Pima Canyon.

  • Pima East and West Loops:  Accessed from Pima Canyon or Beverly Canyon trailhead.

  • Ranger Trail:  The lower section of this trail is highly recommended and can be accessed from the Equestrian Area inside South Mountain Park. (Many riders like to make a loop trail using Ranger, Bajada, Max Delta and Cross Cut Trails to get a short ride.)

  • Bajada Trail:  Accessed from the Equestrian Area by way of the Ranger Trail. It takes riders into the San Juan area of South Mountain Park.

Ranger with horse

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Ponderosa Stables
(Horse Rentals & Guided Adventures)​

Horseback is a wonderful way to view the beautiful desert vistas and towering Saguaro cactus.  ​A private company, Ponderosa Stables, is located directly outside the S. Central Ave entrance of South Mountain Park and offers a variety of horseback riding options.​​​​

Other Recommended Equestrian Trails:

  • Trail 100 (Charles Christensen):  Highly recommended. Key staging areas are: Mountain View Park, 7th St. Access Lot, Dreamy Draw Park and 40th St. Access Lot.

  • Trail 1A (Perl Charles):  Highly recommended. Staging out of Dreamy Draw Park.

  • Trail 8A (Quartz Ridge):  Staging out of 40th St trailhead, south of Shea Blvd.

  • Trail 220 and 220A:  ​Staging out of Dreamy Draw Park.