Horseback Riding Vacations in Washington

Washington: “The Evergreen State”

The State of Washington is bounded by Canada the north, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the U.S. states of Idaho to the east and Oregon to the south.

It is named for George Washington, who led the American forces during the United States War of Independence in 1776 and was the nation’s first president. Washington is often referred to as “Washington State” to distinguish it from the U.S. capital, Washington D.C.

It’s nicknamed the Evergreen State because of its many forests, which cover over half the state. In fact, the lumber industry has played a central role in Washington's economy.

It is the second most populous state on the West Coast. Approximately 60% of Washington’s residents live in the Seattle metropolitan area, one of the most popular tourist destinations of the state.

Washington has become a leading player in the production of wine, timber, apples, hops, pears and potatoes. It makes a great contribution to the nation´s manufacturing industry.

Geography of Washington State

Washington is divided into 4 regions, based on natural land features: the Coast Range, Puget Sound Lowlands, the Cascade Range and the Columbia Plateau.

The Cascade Mountains bisect the state from the wet, green west to the fertile, farm lands of the east. This range features a group of rugged mountain peaks and countless waterfalls and cascades. Among its highest volcanoes are Mount St. Helens and Mount Rainier.

Puget Sound is a deep inlet of the Pacific Ocean and part of the Salish Sea. With its complex system of interconnected marine waterways and basins, it is the third largest estuary in the United States.

There are 3 national parks in Washington: Mount Rainier National Park, North Cascades National Park and Olympic National Park.

On the Olympic Peninsula, west of Puget Sound, is Olympic National Park – home to the Olympic Mountains, the Hoh Rain Forest, and long stretches of wild, wind-swept Pacific beaches.

Horse riding holiday proposals in the state of Washington

Horse Riding Holiday lovers will find lots of things to do and see during a vacation in the state of Washington.

The best way to discover this land is on a guest ranch. Check out the following two working cattle ranches that offer some interesting options for your horseback riding vacation.

Bull Hill Ranch

Located in northeastern Washington State, Bull Hill Ranch sits at the foothills of the majestic Rocky Mountains, just 40 km from Canada.

Opened in 1995, it is part of a large working cattle ranch that dates back to 1903. It encompasses more than 50,000 acres (200 km²) of lush mountain landscapes.

Rich in history and tradition, the ranch has become a favored destination for families, corporate retreats and lovers of outdoor activities.

They offer a wide array of activities, from horseback riding and cattle drives to trap shooting or fly fishing.

As for accommodation, they offer different options. You can choose from different types of cabins, all decorated in a rustic western style and fully furnished.

You also have the option of spending the night in Glamping tents, also known as “Safari” tents, which provide a connection with the great outdoors with all the comforts of luxury lodging.

Horseback riding with Bull Hill Ranch

No riding experience is needed, they only recommend a good level of physical fitness. They consider height and athletic ability as well as guests' weight when matching them with their horses for the ride ahead.

They have more than 70 horses. Available from April through October, the two-hour (or longer) trail rides combine breathtaking views of nearby Lake Roosevelt and the Columbia River with a variety of terrain, including open meadows and forests.

Ride length is based upon guests’ explicit requests. Enjoy day rides with packed lunches or shorter rides, it's up to you.

You may enjoy the opportunity to take part in authentic cattle drives. Beginner to advanced riders are welcome, although riders should have the ability to ride with complete confidence.

For more information, go to their website: bullhill.com.

K Diamond K Guest Ranch

This Ranch provides horseback riding vacations on a working cattle / horse ranch in Eastern Washington near the Canadian border. It is a perfect opportunity to enjoy horseback riding together with their expert guides and dedicated staff.

K-Diamond-K Cattle Ranch and Veterinary Clinic was founded by Stephen and June Konz in 1961. In 1994, they began sharing their home as a guest ranch.

They continue on to this day with help from their children and grandchildren. Family style meals and friendly staff make you feel quite at home and as part of the family.

Guests staying at the ranch love their log lodge. They offer 15 spacious & uniquely decorated guest rooms; each offering a private bathroom.

They are open year round with 4 distinct seasons.

Depending on the time of year, they offer different activities. In addition to horseback riding and typical ranch activities, you can also go hiking, biking, hunting and fishing.

Equestrian Activities

On this 1600-acre ranch, there are miles of riding trails with scenic views on every ride.

They have 40 horses including horses for the beginner as well as the experienced rider. The horses are rounded up every morning and turned out every evening, since they live in open fields.

On the first day, their wranglers will check your riding skills to match you with the most suitable horse, and they will also give you some safety recommendations.

For the health of their horses, they have a weight limit for riders. All riders must be less than 225 lbs (102 kg) with their boots on.

Riding lessons are also available.

Off Season Ranch Activities

While the season for vacations is predominantly during the warmer months, ranch activities go on throughout the year.

No matter when you come, you are sure to enjoy a distinctive visit.

Calves and foals are born in the spring, hay harvesting in the summer, feeding hay in the winter and timber harvesting as time permits. Roundups, fencing and maintenance is part of their lives.

Besides, their longhorn cattle migrates through the ranch every morning moving to higher ground and returning to the meadow every evening.

You will find more information about all these activities on their website: www.k-diamond-k.com.

During your Washington horseback riding vacations you can ride through grassland ringed by mountains, or deep into evergreen forests, enjoying its impressive scenery. Follow the experienced Wranglers who will make you fall in love with the wonderful trails you discover.

Do you also love the idea of exploring the United States on horseback?

Download our free eBook on equestrian tourism in North America and discover all the equestrian destinations of North America. In this eBook, you will find our trusted operators and their riding programs in the United States, Mexico and Canada.