Here at River Valley Ranch we offer horseback riding, trail rides and pasture boarding along the beautiful Minnesota River. The Ranch includes over 400 acres, 50 horses and has been a working ranch since 1962.
Now Hiring!
River Valley Ranch is looking for a Trail Guide, applicants need prior horse riding and care experience. If you have questions or are interested in the position please call (952)361-3361 and ask for Jo.
We are conveniently located south of the metro just a few miles north of Highway 169 and south of Highway 212 in Carver, MN.
WINTER HOURS
(weather permitting)
Monday - Friday CLOSED
Saturday & Sunday 10am - 4pm, weather permitting
Customer Per Person Pricing
1 Hour Trail Ride $60 cash/$63 Credit
1 Hour Private Ride $90 cash/$94 Credit
2 Hour Trail Ride $120 cash/$125 Credit
2 Hour Private Ride $150 cash/$156 Credit
1/2 Hour Horesy Ride $30 cash/$31 Credit
Here’s the Details
HORSEBACK RIDING RESERVATIONS are only taken by calling 952-361-3361 and are reserved on the hour to assure appropriate group sizes.
TRAIL RIDING REQUIREMENTS – All riders must be at least 52″ inches tall with a maximum weight of 250 lbs to ride and there is NO Double Riding.
STAFF WILL PICK a horse based on skill level.
RIDERS must have the physical ability to mount the horse unassisted.
WHAT HAPPENS if we’re late for our trail riding reservations? If you are late for your trail riding reservations, we cannot guarantee, make allowances for or honor your reservations, when applicable. Thank you.
WHAT HAPPENS if we arrive too early for our trail ride reservations? If you arrive earlier than 15 minutes before your reservation, you’ll have to wait your turn.
Happy Trails!
Best Horseback Riding in the Twin Cities!
Riding the Trails at River Valley Ranch, Inc.
WHAT TO WEAR For comfort and safety on the trails dress for the weather, wear jeans or long pants, close-toed boots or shoes (preferably with a small heel) to keep your feet from slipping out of the stirrups.
DO NOT WEAR oversized-loose jackets or clothing, long shirts, dangle jewelry or long scarves that can get tangled. PLEASE leave the Crocs, open toe shoes, shorts, flip-flops and sandals at home. Thank you.
PUBLIC NOTICE: APPLY YOUR OWN BUG SPRAY AND SUNSCREEN BEFORE YOU GET TO THE RANCH. THE RANCH DOES NOT SHARE, RENT, SELL, BORROW OR SUPPLY BUG SPRAY, SUNSCREEN, HAND SANITIZER, RIDING HELMETS, RIDING BOOTS, SUNGLASSES, GLOVES, WRITING UTENSILS, RAIN GEAR OR HATS TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
ALL RIDERS UNDER THE AGE OF 18 MUST HAVE A SIGNED RELEASE FORM FROM A PARENT OR GUARDIAN IN WHICH TO RIDE. ABSOLUTELY NO EXCEPTIONS.
Why Should I Try Horseback Riding?
Horseback riding offers numerous benefits for both mental and physical health to help improve overall well-being.
Mental Health Benefits:
1. Reduces stress and anxiety: Interacting with horses and being in nature can calm the mind and reduce stress levels.
2. Boosts self-esteem and confidence: Learning to ride and care for horses can build self-assurance and confidence.
3. Improves mood: The bond between horse and rider can release endorphins, also known as "feel-good" hormones.
4. Enhances emotional connection: Horseback riding can help individuals develop empathy, trust, and emotional awareness.
Physical Health Benefits:
1. Improves balance and coordination: Horseback riding requires balance, flexibility, and coordination, which can improve overall physical fitness.
2. Strengthens core muscles: Riding horses engages the core muscles, improving stability and overall core strength.
3. Develops leg strength and flexibility: Horseback riding works the legs, hips, and knees, improving flexibility and strength.
4. Improves cardiovascular health: Horseback riding can be a moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, improving cardiovascular health.
5. Enhances cognitive function: Horseback riding requires focus, attention, and problem-solving, which can improve cognitive function.
Additional benefits of horseback riding include:
Social connections: Horseback riding can provide opportunities to meet new people and build social connections.
Responsibility and empathy: Caring for horses teaches responsibility, empathy, and compassion.
Nature connection: Horseback riding allows individuals to connect with nature, promoting a sense of well-being and calm.