The horses were in excellent condition and their attitudes were spirited, well behaved, easy to control with the guidance of Sydney and Joe. Sydney was a wonderful guide who knew the terrain and history of the ranch. She was professional yet friendly and talkative easy to ask questions about horses as well as the ranch. Sunset ride was a perfect way to end the day and enjoy the outdoors. As a beginner rider, this was my best experience! Would go again and bring new friends. read more

CottonWood Canyon Ranch - Trail scenes with Sydney the guide - Horseback Riding Near Me - Morongo Valley, California

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Yes, we signed a waiver. We know the dangers of horseback riding in a desert, even though no one ever expects something like this to happen to them, but everyone expects safety measures to be taken to keep paying customers safe. And I should clarify, the horses didn't buck us off, but did rear up and the guide and I fell off our respective horses. We didn't jump off, though. You have a lot of details wrong about the situation. We have the right to state to potential customers the potential dangers of them not being prepared for a situation like we went through, and the dangers of safety precautions not being taken. I told nothing but the truth. We hope the horses are well, we hope you are well, and you and other riders can be more prepared and be as safe as possible. We have moved on, we hope you can, too. read more

My boyfriend and I came here for a nice relaxing trail ride. When we called, we were given no information other than the price. When we got there our guide immediately got us on the horses and we sat on them for around 45 minutes before we even started our trail ride. She gave us the clipboards with papers to sign while on the horses and my boyfriend accidentally dropped one on the ground and both of our horses got spooked. When she asked if we wanted helmets we had asked if anyone had fallen off and she told us no customers had ever fallen off (after reading reviews I know that that was a lie). She explained to us that they've been shut down since April because she fell off due to her horse being spooked by a rattlesnake and that the horses hadn't been ridden since. Because of this we decided to wear helmets and she hosed them off with ice cold water and gave us sopping wet and freezing cold helmets to wear. When we finally started our ride both our horses were not listening at all (we have been on many rides before and volunteer with horses frequently and have never experienced anything like this). My horse kept taking off regardless of what I did so we ultimately decided to turn around not even 2 minutes into the ride and call it a day. We did not feel safe at all. Do NOT go here, I honestly have no idea how this place is still running after all these incidents. I feel bad for the horses because I'm sure they were feeling very excited to finally get out after being cooped up for so long. This place should really be shut down as these horses are not sound and not safe to ride at all. Our guides horse was also trying to kick her while she was tacking up which made me concerned for her safety. Our guide was eventually understanding when we decided not to continue (she was not the owner). read more

Last week, my friends and I enjoyed a BEAUTIFUL experience at Cottonwood Canyon Ranch! We were staying in the area from out of town, on a girls trip, and really wanted to go horseback riding. Cottonwood Canyon Ranch was quick to answer their phone and helped us book an appointment on very short notice- two days in advance. The property was hidden away on some beautiful desert land, and we were greeted very warmly by Miss Georgia, Cindy, Sydney, and the sweetest most beautiful horses I have ever met. Please be advised that upon arrival, you are expected to pay and tip in cash. We overlooked this detail and had to drive five minutes back into town to stop at an ATM. You have to pay Georgia and sign some waivers before beginning. Miss Georgia, the owner of the ranch, made it clear from the beginning that the day was ours and she was here to make our experience a great one, and safe for both the horses and us. She and the ladies made us feel very comfortable and at ease from the start, and even said a prayer with us before we began. This was such a blessing, because we were very nervous and inexperienced in the beginning. We were each matched up with horses according to our heights, weights, and comfort level. And as it turned out, the horses matched our personalities so well too! I felt so divinely and instantly connected to my horse, Sundance, and I can confidently say that my friends felt the same. Each horse had a unique personality and story of rescue, rehabilitation, and healing. Miss Georgia was so happy to talk about the horses and obviously very passionate and talented at what she does. She's been working with horses for her whole life! The session is an hour and a half officially, but, come with an open heart and good intentions and you just might be pleasantly surprised to be welcomed for longer. The session begins with the ladies making sure you feel comfortable with your horse, your saddle, and any other equipment, while in the safety of the enclosed arena. Cottonwood Canyon Ranch is a privately-owned, rescue-focused ranch, and so, the horse's safety is priority. If for some reason Georgia feels like she is not comfortable letting you ride out on the trails, you will not ride. Please keep this in mind. But, we did get to ride! After getting comfortable with our horses, which did not take long, Georgia lead us out onto the most breathtakingly beautiful desert trail, with her daughter Cindy following behind the group. I was very grateful that they stayed with us the entire ride and assisted us throughout the entire thing. The horses are so intelligent and intuitive, and overall it was a healing, blessed experience. Georgia and Cindy had some funny stories to tell us along the way, as long as some informative ones. The landscape was amazing and we caught the final golden hours of daylight. The ladies take photos for you along the way so that you can keep your hands on the reigns, but, if you want high quality photos, I would still recommend taking your own photos because their photo quality was not the best. (It's okay though, because the memories will remain) I loved my experience with Sundance and the other horses so much. I definitely want to return to Cottonwood Canyon Ranch soon. I hear it's pretty in the spring. I want to also make a side note for my fellow horseback riders of color- our group was a group of Black and Brown Latina young women from the SF Bay Area. One thing we were apprehensive of before riding was how we would be received in such a white space. But, Georgia and the ladies were very hospitable, and I am confident they are that way with all of their guests. And so, if you have any worries or doubts regarding this, please let those fears go! I highly recommend Cottonwood Canyon Ranch to everybody in the Joshua Tree/Yucca Valley/Morongo Valley area. Definitely worth the money and an unforgettable, beautiful experience. Many thanks to Georgia, Sydney, Cindy, and the horses Sundance, Tucker, Tobi, Spirit, Whiskey, and Jasmine. God bless you! read more

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we had a wonderful experience riding the horses and hanging out at the ranch. Georgia and Joe were fantastic!! HighLy recommended and an absolute blast!! Scott and Karen read more

DONT GO HERE, ITS NOT SAFE TL;DR: This place is dangerous. The horses are out of control. My brothers horse bucked him off. My dad and I's horses ran full speed to the barn, we had to duck so that we didn't get decapitated by the roof. The owner accidentally sent my dad a text referring to him as an "assh*le" after she agreed to give us a refund (which she never gave us). Went horseback riding for the first time here with my family right after Christmas week. The owner told my dad on the phone as we were arriving that "the horses are little rambunctious after the holiday." That was the first red flag. When we got there, they immediately asked for the payment up front as we signed waivers agreeing that the ranch wasn't at fault for any injuries. Assuming this was just standard procedure, we followed instructions and mounted the horses. We were then given a brief lesson in the pen on how to control the horses. Even in the pen it felt like the horses weren't responding to any of the commands we were taught to give them. But the wrangler insisted we start the journey up the creek. Immediately once we left the pen, my horse starts moving pretty fast and won't go in the direction that the wrangler is trying to steer us in, so she says "it's ok, we'll just take this route then." It was beginning to feel like we really had no control over these horses. Once we got onto the trail (which is barely even a trail, and more so an empty, jagged, uphill creek), my brothers horse is acting erratically, randomly jumping and running, and he can't seem to get it to calm down. Eventually he falls off the horse and the horse goes running. The wrangler apologizes and says it looks like the saddle wasn't tight enough. We obviously decide the horseback ride is over and we start going back down the hill. The wrangler says we have to remain on our horses the entire way back, even though we aren't feeling safe on them (except for my brother, who walked back after the fall). My dad and I end up a ways ahead of my mom, my brother, and the wrangler, and by the time we get to the bottom of the hill, our horses start running at full speed. We're doing everything we were taught to get them to stop but they just keep accelerating. They're running towards the barn, and they're only getting faster, we have no time to jump off, so we hold on for dear life. We end up having to duck as they run full speed into the barn, so as not to get decapitated by the roof. It was one of the most terrifying experiences of my life. The owner tells my dad that they'd been filming a movie the week before, and that my dad and I's horses must have been reenacting "the race to the barn scene." My dad is able to get half of the money back, but after reflecting upon it, we realize we deserve a full refund. We communicate with the owner, who tells us she will refund the rest of the money if we agree not to leave her a negative review online. We never received the money, and she accidentally sent my dad a text, referring to him as an "assh*le." My brother was badly bruised, but we're lucky we weren't seriously injured. Don't go to this place. read more

This place was amazing! Georgia and Tanya were great, they paired us with horses appropriate to our skill level and Georgia led us on a long beautiful ride through the valley. Georgia did a great job of teaching us as we rode (two of us were total newbies). You definitely need to pay attention and listen, but it was an amazing once-in-a-lifetime experience and our horses were rockstars! read more

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I think I left a review here six years ago, but I'm still coming out to experience this unique and wonderful place! I've come out for trail rides 5 times now, and even crashed a wedding at the ranch once! It's one of the most peaceful, beautiful experiences I've had each and every time. Georgia who runs the ranch is such an incredible trail guide and kind spirit. I'm so thankful to have her and her horses to run away to whenever city life gets too much to handle. I can't recommend Cottonwood Canyon Ranch highly enough, and I look forward to many visits in the future! Thanks for everything, Georgia. read more

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My wife and I wanted to go horse back riding and we are so happy we found this place. They were so welcoming and even accommodated us the day of. Our guide was very knowledgeable and made us feel so comfortable. They really care about horses and you can tell they are taken care of with love. We will be back for sure! read more

Beautiful scenery and horses (some of them rescued). Knowledgeable and helpful owner and staff. Appropriate for all skill levels. My family had a great time and would love to go again. read more

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My friend and I brought our 12 year old daughters here during a weekend getaway to JT. It was a great experience for everyone all the way around. They matched horses to the experience of the riders and tailored the trail ride to meet our needs as well. Georgia and Roxanne were fantastic guides - keeping us informed, entertained and having a truly memorable time together. I have been on numerous trail rides and this was by far the best. The horses were well loved and the grounds (including the restroom!) immaculate. They were patient, attentive, and encouraging with our girls, enabling them to feel confident on the ride. I love that they have rescued many of these animals and given them a home. You can tell these horses are well-loved pets. I definitely recommend Cottonwood Canyon Ranch if you're looking to spend your money in a place where it will do you and the horses some good. Thanks, Georgia! read more

CottonWood Canyon Ranch - Horseback Riding Near Me - Morongo Valley, California

I went again to the ranch and it was so accommodating. I rode a different horse this time and I had a great tour and they match the horse to the rider spot on. I can't wait to go back again! read more

Me and my fiance were visiting the Joshua Tree area and she loves horses so we decided to book a ride.. A lot of other places didn't respond or pick up calls but Georgia picked up right away and we got something on the books and Joe was a great guide as well. We had so much fun, the horses were gentle, and the views were great! Would def come back again read more

This Ranch is a great place to go for horseback riding! The ambiance is perfect for a date or with your family. The people that run the ranch put their hearts into it and the horses are wonderful. A great place to go for an afternoon filled with fun. Five stars all the way! read more

Had the best ride with Georgia and her friends. My horse (Toby, I believe) was an amazing ride. He was calm and made me feel safe when going down the steep hills. My boyfriend rode on a horse that was roughly 28 years old and the calmest horse ever...the horse was very well trained and gentle with him. The time of the ride was just right when we rode...with a nice cool breeze to end the day. I can't wait to go back! I highly recommend this place to anyone that wants a nice ride with wonderful people. read more

A friend introduced me to this beautiful ranch a year ago. I was very impressed with the beautiful setting and immaculate condition/care of the horses. As a teacher I sometimes have students with special educational/emotional needs. Georgia and David invited me to bring a student to visit their ranch. Words cannot express the effect the visit had on this little boy! Thank you for your kindness and for sharing your beautiful animals! read more

My boyfriend and I were staying at the JW Marriot in Desert Springs and we both wanted to go horseback riding. I found this amazing ranch after researching local ranches online and was instantly reeled in by Cottonwoods website. One of the main points that attracted me to Cottonwood was the fact that they do PRIVATE guided tours. My boyfriend and I were able to go on a two hour guided trail ride with Georgia's daughter Caitlin who let us have a TON of fun. The horses are beautiful, well trained, and some are rescued which makes this ranch even more charismatic. I will definitely be back to explore more canyon terrain on horseback and I absolutely recommend this ranch to ANYONE. They are super accommodating and after extensive research, I have decided this is the best ranch to ride with in the area. read more

Highly recommend Cottonwood Canyon Ranch for horseback riding! It was phenomenal! The path we took was quiet and serene...and a REAL trail ride! However, this ride is definitely appropriate for new riders and kids. The horses were wonderfully trained, responsive, and sweet. You can tell Georgia and her husband care for their horses - the tack is in GREAT shape, the ride starts right away after a safety brief, and Georgia knows so much about riding, horses, Joshua Tree, and local plants and landmarks - her stories and details about the area are an added bonus! Our ride at Cottonwood Canyon Ranch was the highlight of our trip to Joshua Tree...so happy we went! You will be too :) read more

Had a GREAT ride today, I rode Sundance. Georgia rode Toby. I was amazed at how beautiful the scenery was and the ride was so relaxing. They have 15 horses and some even are rescues but each one of them are spoiled and so loved. You guys are amazing and so was the ride. Give them a call you won't be sorry. I was sad I only rode an hour but next time for sure I'll be riding longer. Thank you for the hat- I wore it home. Until I see you and ride with you again keep up the fabulous job that you're doing. read more

We travelled to JT as a group of three families, including a number of children. I spent a good deal of time and effort coordinating with the owner ahead of our arrival. Nevertheless, our visit to the Ranch was disorganized, expensive and disappointing (esp. for the kids). I advise being very clear with the owner ahead of your arrival - including about the final cost and the number of horses available. I would do this by phone, and not by email. We really wanted to like the Ranch - and support its aim to rescue horses - but it was a definite low point of our trip to JT. read more

Excellent stables. Very friendly staff. Horses are very friendly and great to ride. First time rider here and had a great day. Felt comfortable and secure when riding. The owners very obviously care about their horses and their patrons. Can't wait to go back. Had a fantastic time. Would recommend to everyone. read more

Goodness, where do I start. What a beautiful place to visit. My friend an I decided to go horseback riding and found Cottonwood Canyon Ranch. The scenery was mesmerizing. Through the mountain trails, we saw a couple of red-tail hawks, amazing mountain views, and encountered so different types of critters. Our guide Roxanne was so knowledgable and pleasant. She shared many exciting stories with us. Being that we are not experts at riding, she took time to make sure we were relaxed and were enjoying ourselves. We also had the pleasure of meeting Georgia and David (owners), and they are both incredible people. So welcoming, so kind. They truly care and take such good care of their horses. Definitely will visit them in the near future. They left an everlasting impression!! read more

I want to start with the positives because I really loved this place overall and the horses are well taken care of, Georgia the owner is really sweet and personable and she knows her stuff and staff are nice. The only thing I'm not really happy about is I booked this for my husband and I for our honeymoon, we got there at 6pm and it took a while to get the horses ready to go, the guides that were suppose to come with us didn't have their horses saddled or ready to go, and one guide didn't seem like she really knew what she was doing but she was still nice, we were suppose to ride for an hour and a half, and only rode for about 30 minutes because we got started late and the sun was already starting to set, and we paid full price... I didn't/don't even want a refund I just wanted the full ride we were suppose to have, kind of a bummer because our guide just said she was sorry for it being such a short ride. This was the only thing I was really wanting to do our whole trip, kind of sad we didn't get the full experience. I st read more

I went to CottonWood Canyon Ranch during my little mini vacation and I'm happy I did. I had a great time the owners and staff were friendly and informative about not only the horse but the area in which we were ridding. I had a great time and so did my young son who I took along they were happy to allow him to ride as well he was very happy. We had a great time and will defiantly be looking up Georgia again on our next trip out. read more

Both my wife and I had an amazing time riding with both Georgia and Ann! Their hospitality was unmatched and they were so catering to our riding style and riding knowledge. I loved the ranch set up and was very easy to navigate to. We will be returning time and time again to experience what I would call the "Disneyland" of horse riding! Georgia and Ann, thank you again, you were the best!!! read more

I don't normally write reviews but Cotton Wood is such an incredible jewel in the canyon that I felt like I need to speak its praises! My friend and I had the time of our lives at CottonWood Canyon Ranch. Georgia was INCREDIBLE! We made last minute reservations to go on a ride and Georgia was beyond accommodating and welcoming! Our horses were a perfect fit for us and we enjoyed riding among the beautiful canyon trails. We were so touched to hear about all the horse rescue work Georgia does in rehabilitating mistreated horses and bringing them back to a loving and cared for place. Georgia was such a wonderful spirit and her independence, knowledge and kindness and humor made our ride such a pleasure! I will absolutely visit with Georgia (and Tobey, my horse!) again. Thank you for such a special and wonderful experience! Lisa San Diego, CA read more

This is a lovely, serene and beautiful place. Tucked in the canyons, the setting and scenic ride is most enjoyable for city folks looking to chill and take in some magnificent mountain scenery. Georgia and Dave, and Roxanne, are experts with horses. They're friendly; fun, and they will treat you like family when you arrive. The stables are clean. You'll get a taste of what ranches are like 'round these parts. And, best of all, the horses well matched to the riders. Safety is their biggest concern, so don't worry if they ask about your riding skills. They want to make sure you have a terrific time on the trail. As a former boarder, I'd bet my spurs -- if I had them -- on a great day that's meant to take the stress and any jitters you might'a had from your life in the fast lane away! Happy Trails!! read more

My wife and I were unsure about a horseback ride in the desert, but upon arriving at this ranch we were stunned! The property was so beautiful, the owners and help were so fun and such sweet horses. Our trail ride was a blast and so scenic we saw all kinds of wildlife and had a really Great time! Thank you Georgia for a really fun day! Next time we are in Palm Springs you can be sure we will come back for another ride on your wonderful ranch! read more

I was on the Ranch 6/3/2015, I returned to make a date for my daughters wedding and I came unannounced. I saw a review that was made on 6/3/2015 that was one star and was shocked. I saw the own Mrs Nicolet handle this party traveling from another country. They showed up in shorts and the owner nicely asked them why they were not in the proper attire she told them on the phone. The party didn't seem to care about her or their feet. They were wearing flip flops to go riding. I sat in the shaded area of the barn and was waiting for the owner to be free to discuss my daughters wedding of 250 people that I was going to book for the upcoming year. I was in Palm Springs on vacation and decided to drive up and see if she was home. This party that wanted to ride was treating Mrs Nicolet's horses and her ranch hands with complete disrespect. I couldn't believe my eye when I saw what was happening. It took over an hour before I got to talk to the owner about my daughters wedding. As I was talking to her the rude party came back much sooner than expected because they didn't want to ride anymore due to the heat or something, I am not sure. They certainly didn't know how to act politely is all I can say. I booked my wedding and wrote Mrs. Nicolet a deposit for the wedding date. I HIGHLY disagree when people misuse YELP because they don't follow rules or are just completely rude. Fever is the name, and I wouldn't trust her that person's reviews ever. I will be having a 200 plus person wedding for my daughter with horses and carriage. We also booked a sunset ride for two weeks from now when my daughter can come with me and ride with the owner...which is a real treat. I love this ranch and the owner is awesome. I never have seen such a poor display on yelp from a person who completely mis represented the entire situation. read more

Took my teenagers to the desert for the first time, wanted em to see it by horseback. Georgia was great, husband Dan is very cool, and Roxanne, our guide, couldn't have been nicer. It's a beautiful spread they've got, but it's tucked away, so be sure to ask for directions. The ride is a private ride -- I was fooled by some of the pictures of the big groups on Yelp. It was just the three of us, so we got lots of attention. The horses were okay, gentle and nice, but they're trail horses, used to hauling out strangers and following the path, so no excitement there. If you're looking for more than a stroll, you're at the wrong place. Also it's a desert ride, but truth be told, it's kind of a desert backyard ride -- we rode up the hills behind houses and ranchettes and a genuine hermit's place. I was expecting a bit more wide open space. But that's nitpicking -- it comes down to the integrity of the people, and Georgia and Dan and Roxanne are first rate! We will be back! read more

Family owned business and really nice people. The owner is super knowledgable about horses and also rescues them which is great. The trail we went on wasn't totally exciting but if you are up for an hour ride, real mellow and want to learn about the local area and horses, go for it. read more

Cottonwood Ranch is a great place to ride. Welcoming people and beautiful clean ranch! Horses are well taken care of and friendly! Thanks for the great memories! read more

I took my daughter for a horse back ride, how beautiful the area was and so close to hwy 62. The guides saddled up our horses and to our surprise we got a lesson befor we went out on our ride. My daughter was very nervous, the guide offered to pony her so she could ride with no worry. The horses were delightful and we had a wonderful time. On the way back to the barn my daughter was able to ride on her own! Thank you for going the extra mile. We cannot wait to return! We have friends that are getting married next year, the are coming with us for a ride and to discuss the option for their wedding the grounds are breathtaking! read more

We had an amazing experience. I could not recommend Georgia's ranch more. So magical. Lovely time had by all. Will definitely be a repeat customer. If you are near the desert you must go!!!! read more

Cottonwood Canyon Ranch is the exception to the rule in horseback riding. The horses are not stable horses they are members of the ranch's family. When you go out on a a ride you can see the desert as never seen before on the top of a horse. Georgia's warm smile and enthusiasm for her love of horses shines through. You definelty get your what you pay for. I will be back you can count on it. read more

So many incredible things about Cottonwood Canyon! Georgia and Dave are the nicest, most accommodating and realest ranch owners you'll ever meet. All the horses are beautiful and expertly cared for. The property is incredible and could be the most relaxing experience of your life. I have been lucky enough to work on their ranch on numerous video productions and it has been the most stress free and easy shoots I've had working! read more

Georgia and her amazing staff made our trail ride one of the most epic experiences in my life. I'm a hugely tall bloke and they brought in a fantastic horse from a nearby ranch to make it happen. Georgia is doing a fantastic job saving mistreated horses and you feel the love for animals as soon as you arrive. Will go back to this area only and specifically for this ranch, the beautiful nature and the breathtaking experience of taking out such kind animals in the epic wilderness. Huge and heartfelt recommendations for this place! read more