Horseback Riding
at Alisal
Saddle up across 10,500 acres of preserved Santa Ynez Valley land, where Alisal Ranch’s beloved riding program has welcomed guests of every level since 1946. From scenic trail rides through oak-studded hills to private rides tailored to your group, our experienced wranglers and well-loved herd make every outing feel personal, authentic, and unmistakably western. Whether you’re getting in the saddle for the first time or you’ve spent a lifetime riding, the trails of Alisal offer a true connection to the land, the horses, and the timeless spirit of ranch life.
discover life in the saddle
From first ride to favorite ride, find yours here.
Use our Activity Guides to explore available rides and choose your time in the saddle.
Kids Horseback Riding
Growing Up in the Saddle
From first introductions to confident trail rides, our kids’ programs are designed to help young riders feel comfortable, supported, and excited in the saddle. Led by our wranglers, each experience builds skills, confidence, and a love for the ranch.
Lead Around
For a child’s first time in the saddle, our gentle Lead Around offers a safe and easy introduction, where wranglers walk them on horseback around the barnyard so they can experience the feel of riding in a comfortable, supportive setting.
Corral Lessons
For kids ages 4–6, our 30-minute Corral Lesson offers a safe, guided introduction to riding in a controlled setting, where wranglers help young riders build confidence, learn the basics of communicating with a horse, and develop an early appreciation for ranch life.
1 Hour Starter Ride
Designed for kids ages 7+ who are ready to take the next step, our 1-hour Starter Ride offers a relaxed introduction to trail riding before moving into longer rides. It’s a fun and flexible way to gain confidence in the saddle.
Meet Jeanette
Head Wrangler
Alisal Ranch’s horseback riding program is led by Head Wrangler Jeanette Maner, a lifelong horsewoman whose passion for riding began in Los Angeles, where she learned from a local caballero family as a young girl. Jeanette brings a wealth of equine expertise to the ranch, including a degree in Food Marketing and Agricultural Business Management from Cal Poly Pomona and experience as a horse trainer and technician at stables across California and Colorado, including roles as Breeding Director, Operations Director, and most recently Stables Director at Devils Thumb Ranch. At Alisal, Jeanette combines her deep knowledge of horses with a genuine love for hospitality, guiding guests of every riding level through the trails of the Santa Ynez Valley with skill, warmth, and authentic western expertise.
Meet the Herd
Our Horses, the Heart of the Ranch
More than 100 horses call Alisal Ranch home, each with their own personality, story, and favorite spot in the pasture. Our all-gelding herd ranges from steady, easygoing horses perfect for first-time riders and little ones, to nimble, surefooted mounts suited for advanced riders and longer distance rides. Whether you’re looking for a gentle trail companion or a more spirited ride through the hills, our wranglers know each horse by name and personality, matching every guest with the perfect partner for their adventure. At night, the herd roams freely across an 80-acre pasture, living the easygoing life that makes them as happy as the guests who ride them.
Shop Alisal
Riding Club Collection
The Alisal Ranch Riding Club collection celebrates the joy of riding the ranch’s open trails. Once you’ve experienced it, you’re part of the club, connected by a shared appreciation for the Alisal spirit. Rooted in place and tradition, it reflects the timeless character of the ranch.
Things to Know
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re planning your first visit or you’re a seasoned member, this resource aims to provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your experience. If you have any questions that aren’t addressed here, please feel free to contact us directly.
Stay at Alisal
At Alisal Ranch, we believe that true hospitality comes straight from the heart— and want you to feel a warm welcome throughout your stay. Our serene Western-style accommodations offer casual and comfortable luxury, designed to help you unwind and relax.