Riding Rules & Requirements

Horseback riding at the Flying U is a very special experience. To maintain our riding, we have a strict set of rules that must be taken seriously and apply to all guests at the ranch.

For the health and safety of our horses, we can only accommodate riders up to 240lbs. We have a limited number of horses that can accommodate heavier riders (220-240lbs) so they must be booked in advance. As we are limited on our larger horses, even if you have booked in advance as a larger rider, we may not be able to accommodate you if one of our larger horses is on rest for injury and/or illness.

To make sure that we have the best fit for the size of the rider, all riders will have their weights privately verified with a staff member upon check-in. Unfortunately, if you are over our limit at check-in, you will not be assigned a horse for your stay.

The earliest you may ride on your arrival day is after the 1 pm orientation. All guests are required to attend an orientation before they can ride. The orientation covers important safety and riding rules.

The latest you may ride until on your departure day is 12pm. Please make sure your belongings have been removed from your cabin before you head out on your final ride.

Riding is available for guests 5 years of age and older. Kids under 10 years are required to be ponied by a wrangler or experienced rider. We may ask for proof of age upon check in.

When booking your stay, please be honest about your riding experience. If you have over estimated your riding ability when booking we will be unable to guarantee that there will be a suitable horse for you to ride during your stay.

The following set of rules are in place to keep both our riders and the horses safe. If any of these rules are broken during your stay, then you will not be able to participate in the private rides. Warnings will not be given.

Flying U Horseback Riding Rules

Ride at your own risk
Helmets are mandatory for all riders, regardless of age and experience level
Riders under the age of 19 must be accompanied by an adult
Cowboy boots or heeled boots must be worn
No dismounting at the mounting block
Check cinch before mounting
Never let go of the reins
Warm up your horse before galloping
NO RUNNING (trotting/cantering/galloping) within sight of the barn
NEVER tie a horse up by the reins
No racing on the trail
No alcohol prior to or during riding
No smoking on the trails
Walk sweated horses until dry
DO NOT trade horses
Close all gates
Be considerate of other riders (no erratic passing/ ride at the level of your least experienced partner)
No rides will leave the barn after 2pm
All riders MUST be back at the barn and off of their horses NO LATER than 4pm.