Grand Targhee Resort – Horseback Riding
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Grand Targhee Resort Horseback Riding offers guided trail rides into the Caribou-Targhee National Forest from Grand Targhee Resort in Alta, Wyoming, run in partnership with Leigh Creek Outfitters. The right fit is summer travelers wanting real horseback access into national-forest terrain with Tetons-front views, plus families and couples wanting an easy-paced introduction to mountain riding. The wrong fit is anyone wanting nose-to-tail dude-ranch loop rides; these are proper trail rides at a different level.
Scenic Horseback Riding Highlights at Grand Targhee Resort
Guided trail rides at multiple lengths (typically 1-hour, 2-hour, and half-day formats) departing from the resort base. Routes wind through alpine meadows, aspen groves, and the Caribou-Targhee National Forest with Tetons views from the western side. Operated by Leigh Creek Outfitters, a working horseback operation. Helmets and saddle gear provided. Riders matched to horses by experience level. Summer-only operation, typically running June through August or early September.
Why people book here
Three reasons. First, real trail access. The Caribou-Targhee National Forest at the resort's back door provides actual mountain trails, not enclosed ranch loops. Second, the western-Tetons view. Most Jackson-area horseback rides face into the eastern Tetons; from Targhee, you see the same range from the other side, which is rare. Third, experienced outfitter. Leigh Creek runs a real horseback operation; this isn't a generic resort add-on.
How to plan a ride
Book ahead, especially for July and August. Confirm ride length at booking; longer rides require more saddle-time tolerance. Wear long pants (jeans or riding pants), closed-toe shoes or boots, sunscreen, sunglasses, and layers. Hat with chin strap is helpful. Confirm any age and weight restrictions when booking; standard horseback rules apply. Allow time for check-in and saddle-up before the scheduled ride start.
The catch
Two honest tradeoffs. First, summer-only; the program closes in fall when the season ends. Second, weather can move rides; afternoon thunderstorm risk in summer can shorten or cancel afternoon programs.
Local tip
Take an early-morning ride if possible. Mountain wildlife (elk, moose, occasional bear) is more active before mid-morning, the Tetons-side light is better, and afternoon thunderstorm risk doesn't compress the ride. For families with younger or first-time riders, the shorter 1-hour ride builds saddle confidence; book a longer follow-up later in the trip.
Final call
For real horseback trail access into the Caribou-Targhee National Forest with Tetons-front views from the resort base, Grand Targhee's horseback program with Leigh Creek Outfitters is the right call. Book ahead, dress the part, and ride early when you can.
FAQ
What's the season?
Summer; typically June through August or early September.
What lengths of ride are offered?
Typically 1-hour, 2-hour, and half-day. Confirm current options at booking.
Are these for first-timers?
Yes. Riders are matched to horses by experience level.
Where do rides depart?
Grand Targhee Resort base in Alta, Wyoming.