Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, Elbert County, Colorado, offers an exhilarating and enchanting experience for horseback riding enthusiasts. With its vast expanses of rugged grasslands, pine forests, and wildflower-speckled meadows, Elbert County and the surrounding area offer prime locations for getting off the beaten path with a four-legged friend. Whether you’re a seasoned rider looking for more resources or a novice seeking a memorable outdoor escapade, Elbert County’s equestrian community is vast and varied, like the breathtaking landscapes you’ll ride through.
Whispering Spirit Ranch
This 10-acre farm is home to gentle and experienced trail horses ready to take riders of all skill levels out into the woods for a great afternoon. Follow behind experienced horseback riders while learning a few new skills from the saddle. Trail rides are a great way to build confidence on a horse and a fantastic way to explore a diverse swath of land. Check out Whispering Spirit Ranch here. Located in Peyton, CO, this ranch is approximately a 40-minute drive from Independence.
Stable Strides
This nonprofit partners with people and horses for adaptive Hippotherapy that includes working with and riding horses. Adaptive riding allows people of many different physical abilities to experience the joy of horseback riding. The experienced team behind Stable Strides is PATH certified and focuses on teaching riding skills that support individual riders’ recreational, social, and physical goals. If you’re looking for a hippotherapy program close to home, this option is located in Elbert (about 20 minutes from Elizabeth).
Old Glory Performance Horses
Ranch rides, barrel racing, and dressage all happen at Old Glory Performance Horses. The skilled instructor behind this equine outfit has decades of knowledge and skills in creating collaborative and healthy relationships between people and horses. Horseback riding lessons are available to riders of all skill levels at an affordable price for those looking to gain some equine knowledge before heading out for a ride. This farm is less than a 30-minute drive from our neighborhood, offering convenience for those interested in lessons.
Evenstar Farms
Evenstar Farms is just 25 minutes from Elizabeth and is a facility worth learning about for those enmeshed in everything equine. This family-owned operation works as a retirement and care facility for horses as they move through various phases of life. The skilled team behind Evenstar Farms teaches clinics, boards horses, and leads riding programs year-round. Learn more about them here.
N Diamond K Ranch
This local ranch offers horseback riding experiences for people of all ages and abilities. They’ll even bring a set of horses to your private event if you really want to wow party-goers. Give N Diamond K Ranch a call to learn more about the types of horseback riding services they offer to find an experience that best fits your needs. Located in Elbert, N Diamond K Ranch is about a 40-minute drive from Independence.
The Independence community is nestled in the heart of Elbert County, offering residents and their out-of-town guests endless opportunities to take in the adventurous spirit of America’s West. Make memories, try something new, and see Colorado like its early inhabitants did, from the saddle of a horse. Contact us to learn more about our welcoming community.