The Rockin&#x27; Star Ranch

(38 reviews)

3.0 mi

Came here for Valentine's Day without knowing anything about the trail or horses. My boyfriend and…read moreI had an amazing time! Perfect weather and our tour guides were greats. Highly recommend Jay and Larry. Definitely plan on coming back another time to ride a horse!

Wonderful 1.5 hour ride into the Ricon Mountains. Horses are…read morevery nice and beginner friendly. Took my 10 grand daughter who had never ridden before and Jay our lead wrangler was amazing with her. Kind and encouraging. Jay was very knowledgeable and had a lot of interesting history and facts about the area. Highly recommend the Saguaro Stable for a great ride.

Ricon Mountains

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Rocking K Ranch

(5 reviews)

1.8 mi

Lovely lady made reservation. Very Well trained horses. The wrangler gave good instructions & was…read moreattentive! Everyone had a good time On their sunset trail ride.

If you are reading this and looking for a place to go Horseback Riding just stop looking and go to…read moreRocking K Stables. This was an absolutely amazing ride through the Sonora Desert. Kurt is an awesome guide and he's really funny. My wife had a bad horse experience about 18 years ago. Kurt made her feel super comfortable, she was so glad she went.

Riders

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Colossal Cave Mountain Park Riding Stable

4.6

(21 reviews)

4.5 mi

Had an amazing time! Hubby and I went for a date! The tour guide, Del, was super funny and very…read moreinteractive with the crowd despite his nervousness. I would definitely recommend going on a tour, you learn alot and get to see so many cool cave geography!!

The cave tour was very fun!! The tourists said to say uhm Erik? Smells nice : ) and uhm Adam smell…read morebad. The jokes make it so much funnier aswell as amusing!!! The cave was beautiful! I absolutely loved hearing about the evolution of people in the cave ask !..the demonstrations were vivid too. The view was AMAZINGGGG LIKE O.M.G i did trip sometimes, just don't be clumsy like me loll. The gift-shop was nice too aswell as every other worker Also do watch your head

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Medella Vina Ranch

4.3

(35 reviews)

4.7 mi

I went with some friends to the Blues and Vine event and it was so fun. The property is so…read morepeaceful. The women running the bar and wine were very friendly and had lots of information. I will defiantly be back to this event. The wine tasting was on $15 for 5 tastings and the Wicked Good Lobster Rolls which were always amazing.

The Secret Garden at Medella Vina is an oasis! My husband and I go just to see all the green! There…read moreis always beautiful wildlife and wonderful people!

Wedding photography at Medella Vina Ranch in Tucson Arizona by JW photography

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Wedding photography at Medella Vina Ranch in Tucson Arizona by JW photography

Raven Ranch

3.9

(7 reviews)

5.3 mi

This place continues to go down hill. The current owners have owned the ranch for four years. They…read moredon't live on property, and don't even live in Tucson. They have not been hands on ever. Instead they hired a tyrant manager who threatens boarders when they question anything happening on property, including light feedings, which occurs frequently. When asked about repairs we are ignored, to the point of horses being injured and having to be put down. After putting the ranch up for sale for an insane price, as we all know it wasn't worth even close to what they were asking, they decide to make the poor decision to lease the ranch to a 26 year old with a record. Including misuse of livestock. Prior to this they stopped dragging footing, allowed weeds to grow all over the property and continue to not engage in any proper fly control. They were reached out to by numerous boarders and yet nothing happened or improved. The "new" manger at least fired all previous management, who had not done anything at the barn in years. She calls her self a trainer and doesn't even work with her own horse. Takes people's money to work their horses and then does nothing with them. She constantly lies about why she is constantly late to feeding at night and or not doing her job, EVER. Now that the ranch is under 50 horses, with one arena left with decent footing that still isn't being maintained properly, the owners have determined they are now going to "manage" the ranch and have hired new employees, yet have been duped into bringing back the previous manager as an hourly employee. The only reason most of us stay is for the best trainer onsite, Casi, and the owners continue to refuse to realize that listening to her and her boarders would actually help them make the ranch much improved. It's unbelievable that boarders have continued to stick it out in the horrible conditions and the lack of use of half the property. All the owners want is to make money and they some how thought this ranch would make it for them through a "flip". They don't care about the welfare of the horses and they don't really even know what they are doing because they are not horse people themselves. Not sure what will finally make them wake up and realize they continue to make one bad decision after another. This is a customer service business and their customer service is just as dilapidated as what they have turned the barn into.

I cannot recommend Raven Ranch based on my experience boarding here. For over $500 per month, I…read moreexpected better communication, and care for both horses and boarders. Communication from management has been extremely poor. Concerns often go unanswered, and there is little to no management presence on-site. Important issues affecting the barn and horses are not communicated to boarders in a timely manner. The facility itself has also declined. Stalls are falling apart, weeds are overgrown throughout the property, and stall cleaning and water maintenance have been inconsistent. My horse has had vet visits from being cut on the fences that were supposed to be fixed. Feedings have not always occurred on schedule, which is concerning when horses rely on routine. Arena access has become increasingly limited. One arena is the only available riding space, and it is frequently set up with jumps, making it difficult for riders of other disciplines to use comfortably. My biggest concern is the handling of pigeon fever outbreaks. Multiple cases have occurred, yet communication and management of the situation have been inadequate. Horse owners deserve prompt notification and clear protocols when contagious illnesses are present on the property. For the amount boarders are paying, I expected better facility upkeep, more reliable horse care, and significantly better communication. Unfortunately, my experience has been disappointing, and I cannot justify the cost based on the level of service provided.

A rare Snow Day at Raven Ranch!

Raven Ranch

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Look who came to visit our horse at Raven Ranch! 3

Boomerang Riding Adventures

(19 reviews)

6.9 mi

Wonderful desert trail with saguaro cacti and other desert fauna. The horse was gentle, the Trail…read moreGuide was very sweet and knowledgeable, we had great conversation with each other. Fairly priced riding session. Highly recommend.

Such a fun place - our guide Cat was talkative and super fun to listen too. The horses are great…read moreand pretty much do all the work. Great bonding day with my mom! They are also great at helping older or inexperienced off the horses - my mom is 63 and needed a bit of help. Appreciate it. The guides have Venmo QR codes you can tip them - please tip them, they are amazing!

Mom and I!

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River Valley Ranch

5.0

(4 reviews)

4.9 mi

Moved my horse here over a year ago. It is 45 minutes from my house and is worth the drive. First…read morethe owners are very accommodating to fit their facility to my needs allowing me to build a trail course with challenges for all skill levels. The staff are very helpful with any needs I have for my horse. I like that you can bring in your own trainer from the outside at no extra charge. There are also trainers on site who teach and/or exercise your horse which helps if you need to be out of town or cannot give your horse the exercise he needs. Easy access on quiet streets to trails and the Pantano wash. Its park-like setting offers several places to read a book while your horse grazes on the grass. Stalls are cleaned twice a day and horses are fed three times a day. Though I don't have a trailer, I understand they don't charge for parking your trailer on the property. It's working out great for my horse and me.

I boarded my two horses at River Valley Ranch for several years and my experience there was…read moreexcellent. The ranch owners, Crystal and Taylor are kind and thoughtful people and really care for the horses in their care, as well as caring for their boarders (the people). They were very kind and supportive and helpful when it was time for my old guy to move on. He was my heart horse, 26 years old and it was his time. Crystal helped find someone to help with his body after he left it, and that was a huge help. They are kind people and the ranch has a family feel about it. The care the horses receive is top notch! They have grass turn-outs for the horses, as well as multiple arenas and round pens. River Valley Ranch is a great place to board your beloved horse (or horses).

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Sabino Equestrian Center

5.0

(1 review)

5.5 mi

Friendly, clean, lessons in riding and driving Horses are…read moreamazing and in great shape!

From the owner: Family owned horse training and horseback riding lesson facility offering professional training and…read moreinstruction. Ask about our summer camps!

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In-Balance Pilates

4.8

(57 reviews)

15.3 mi

My favorite Pilates studio in Tucson! I've taken numerous class at the Central and Oro Valley…read morelocations - love instructors Evie and Valentina. I always feel challenged whether it's a flow, sculpt, or tone class and love resetting with stretch. The themed months keep things interesting and the studio is always hosting fun events.

I went to Pilates at Inbalance with Ashley and took her Sunday class, when I tell you I was…read moresweating and shaking, I mean it in the best way. Ashley is an amazing instructor. She walks around the room making sure everyone has the correct form and will gently correct you when needed, which I really appreciate because it helps prevent injuries and keeps your posture on point. She explains everything so clearly, and you can truly tell she's passionate about what she does. If you've been thinking about trying Pilates or are looking for a new studio, definitely check out Inbalance. They have a few locations around town, and I promise, you'll be hooked.

Shoulder bridge

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Sabino's Pool Bar & Grill

Had the Cheeseburger and fries and it was really, really good for a Pool Bar & Grill. Highly…read morerecommend. Service was fast and friendly.

Great menu with salads, sandwiches, variety of cocktails. Love the Sonoran Sunset drink. Lying by…read morethe pool with gorgeous views and poolside service is awesome. Swim up bar is fun and rare at United States pools. A favorite place, visited 6 times!

Menu should read 2023, not 2022.

Sonoran Sunset

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Friday Pilates | Downtown

(26 reviews)

15.8 mi

When we moved here from another state, I immediately looked for a Pilates studio. The Grant Ave…read morelocation is convenient, but I also went to the downtown location a few times. Both studios have organized and well-trained instructors. The music is a nice touch - very motivating! and there are a lot of classes to choose from each day. I rarely had to be on a wait list and even then, I always got in. The classes always start and end the same (at least the ones I took) which was odd to me at first, but then I started to really like it. It is a nice relief to know you are getting feet in straps after a challenging class!

Update ! Speakeasy…read moreSpin review ; Ok saw the cure on the playlist, huge fan so of course I booked this asap . Alright like any speakeasy , there's some things you should know before coming to your first class ... Parking - OMG This lot is tiny and very limited. There's now QR scan codes to pay for parking , DON'T PAY - use scan codes for FREE parking at front desk. Check in - You will check in around at the newly remodeled front lobby . It's gorgeous ! At the front desk you can scan code for FREE parking . It's not a quick process , so come EARLY. You will have to input a card & plate number , yada yada & of course it's not the go Tucson parking app , it's metropolis ughhh. Entrance - speakeasy spin is located through a side door adjacent to parking , look for a small sign in window . Go in and up the stairs after you check in at the front lobby . Restrooms - UGH You need a code and it's down a hall , then down another hall and it's shared with showers . Of course I walked in on someone nude and changing ! Whoops Equipment - ask what you need before spin starts it's not listed on a board or anything , halfway through I had no idea I needed a band so instructor gave me hers but it was light resistance, didn't feel much . Bikes- Hello Kaiser bikes ! Most spin studios in town use stages bikes but this studio has true Kaiser cycling bikes with universal pedals , cycle shoe clip ins on one side and sneakers will fit into the other side . Kaiser bikes are known for being tough to adjust sometimes but they're a smooth ride . DROP IN - $21 , not bad for a fuss free drop in. Overall- the class I took overall was a bit mellow to be my vibe at 7am , I do prefer a drill sergeant ready to party on a bike in the morning . However this instructor was sweet and helpful . The studio is a lofty speakeasy vibe and I love the lighting . Sound and microphone were on point . Would I come back - ABSOLUTELY

Super cute merch

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Solana Pilates

(11 reviews)

27.9 mi

Loved this studio ! Super cute ! Very chill community …read more They sell Thorne supplements too, I'm a super fan of Thorne. Instructor was very friendly . This studio is NOT available on class pass, boo. Overall not a very challenging class but I needed more of a recovery class this morning so it was perfect. Make sure to bring your grippy socks !

I can't say enough good things about Solana Pilates! From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed…read moreand supported. The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable, but also genuinely kind, attentive, and encouraging. They take the time to make sure you're doing each movement correctly. I've tried a few different Pilates studios before, but Solana stands out in every way, the quality of instruction, the vibe, and the community. The space is clean, calming, and beautifully maintained, which makes each class something I actually look forward to. I'm so glad I found this place.

Pilates Studio

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Purple Heart Pool

3.5

(4 reviews)

2.9 mi

We had a wonderful experience for the toddler swim lessons. Unfortunately this pools schedule never…read moremakes any sense. Never seems to be open when they say they are and are closed unexpectedly all the time. Cleanliness is mediocre. They don't seem to skim out the dead bugs and leaves as often as they should.

This is a great pool. Women's restroom has two stalls and showers. There were no soap dispensers in…read morethe restroom. At the entrance, they'll ask if you're doing lap swimming or recreational swimming. A lot of kids working there. It's well staffed. Employees are friendly. If you're interested in swim classes for the kids, go to ezeereg.com . You'll need to bring your own chair if you want somewhere to sit. I came by myself and had no concerns of leaving my bag to the side while swimming. It's mostly kids in the pool. A couple of adults (mainly doing laps).

2023 Hours

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Sparsely populated.

BodyQuest Pilates

(7 reviews)

13.6 mi

BodyQuest Pilates is a hidden gem in Tucson! While part of me wants to keep it hidden so they don't…read morerun out of spaces in their classes...I also want to share this fantastic studio with others so that they can benefit too! I've been taking classes for over a year now. I've tried both mat and reformer classes, as well as the Sunday yoga class. The entire feeling of the studio is one of relaxed and open acceptance, which is very important to me. My body absolutely loves how much these classes support strength, flexibility, and balance. As a dancer and a health coach it's extremely important to me to have places I can go on a regular basis to support my fitness goals. Stephanie, Anne, and Miranda are the teachers I've worked with, and I recommend all of them. The classes are small, which allow for personal attention from the instructors and make it so you can get feedback right then and there. I've even grown in height since taking the reformer classes -- and I am short so this was exciting for me. :-)

Picked up a deal on Amazon Local for a massage at BodyQuest Pilates. My friend and I went today to…read moreredeem the deal and were quite pleased. There is only one therapy room in the back of the studio so my friend and I were booked one after the other which was totally fine. Jeanine is a great massage therapist and her gentle demeanor and small frame is deceiving. She is strong and uses her skill to work out the knots and kinks of her clients. She applied just the right amount of pressure and I felt incredibly relaxed after my hour long session. BodyQuest Pilates' massage therapist Jeanine was willing to open the shop for us on a Sunday to make it convenient for my friend and I. That's really excellent customer service and speaks of someone who wants to be successful. Now, about that pilates......

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Club Pilates

3.5

(20 reviews)

15.0 mi

Great studio with classes for all different needs. Only studio with group classes that offers…read moremultiple apparatuses. Free intro classes!

The atmosphere shifted from being member focused to profit focused. Classes were frequently…read morecanceled, even when management knew well in advance that instructors would be unavailable. Longtime members repeatedly voiced concerns, but those concerns were ignored. Several outstanding instructors left, and the quality and consistency of the instruction declined significantly. What disappointed us most was the way members were treated. Communication became poor, management was often dismissive, and customer service was lacking. Instead of valuing loyal members who had supported the studio for years, it felt as though we had become an inconvenience. I even completed the Club Pilates instructor training because I loved Pilates and wanted to deepen my knowledge. After seeing firsthand how experienced instructors and longtime members were treated, I realized this was not an environment where I would ever want to teach. Our memberships were ultimately canceled by management. The cancellation email itself contained contradictory statements, saying our memberships were canceled "effective immediately" while also stating we had already paid through a later date. That lack of professionalism summed up the experience we had been seeing for quite some time. The instructors who remain are doing their best, and many of them are wonderful people. This review is directed at the management and ownership, not the instructors. It's sad because this studio used to feel like a true community. We made lasting friendships there, and that's what we will miss most. Unfortunately, we can no longer recommend this location under its current management.

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80 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Hailee

11 months ago

This is my second time riding with this crew. They are AMAZING! I recommend them to all my friends in tucson. I first heard about them from my friend who has now rode with them 3 times for the morning trail rides. Chris (father) and Brayden (son) have been so accommodating and made the experience that much more enjoyable. The first time I went, I took my sister who was visiting from out of town and so it was a small group of 3 of us. The second time, as you see in these photos, there was a group of 16 of us for Labor Day weekend and we all had a blast! The only thing I was sad about is that I forgot to bring tips for the horses (apples and carrots!!!) This horse trail ride is so much fun, they give you basic commands for how to steer your horse and the horses are so well mannered. I loved my horses Luna and Gracie!! I am not an experienced rider by any means and both times my horses knew the drill and I was just along for the ride! If you're looking for a place to horseback ride in a more laid back environment in tucson, I cannot recommend this place enough! read more

JP C.

2 years ago

We recently booked a sunset horseback ride with Rockin Star Ranch and had a great experience. The online booking process was easy and convenient, which was a significant factor in our decision. The positive online reviews also influenced our choice. There was an internal booking issue that forced us to change the date of the ride, but the staff quickly apologized and resolved the problem. Our guide, Chris, was very knowledgeable and answered all our questions. He took us up the mountain, where we enjoyed amazing views of the wash and the outskirts of Tucson. We also learned about Rockin Star Ranch's philanthropic efforts during the ride. They work with autistic children and the school for the blind, which we found commendable. Overall, we were very satisfied with their services and plan to use them again if we are back in the area. read more

Holly N.

7 years ago

We had an amazing time today at the ranch. The petting zoo was THE BEST ONE EVER!! My girls loved the baby bunnies and baby lambs. Chris and Joyce were amazing! We did the 45 minute horse ride and the views were amazing and Joyce was sooo informative about everything. She pointed out all the gorgeous cacti and flowers and a huge 6 foot barrel cactus!! We saw lots of cows along the way and she also told us all about the old Indian village up in the mountains. After our ride we went back into the petting zoo and she pulled out Tom the turkey for us, a big ole goose and a huge prego pig! We got to pet them all and she told us all about them and their sweet personalities. All of the animals on the ranch and super friendly and never bite, perfect for my girls! We can't wait to go back!! Such a fun day with my lil family read more

Jenna H.

5 years ago

Best trail ride I've ever Experienced! Beautiful setting and amazing horses. Our group included 2 kids who had never been on a horse and an adult who grew up riding. We all had a great time and it was clear that the horses are trained to keep everyone safe and they trust Chris completely. Chris also worked with me to ensure my son with special needs was comfortable and now he can't stop show pictures of "his horse" PAC-Man. He is so proud of himself after JAmes helped him to get comfortable with the very gentle horses and Chris made sure he was comfortable on his horse before leading him on the ride. An amazing experience with Chris and his clearly well cared for and highly trained horses. read more

Diane K.

7 years ago

Wow, if you visit Tucson and you would like a little bit of Nature, Therapy and fun the Rocking Star Ranch is the place to go. I was in Tucson for a week visiting from Wisconsin and the best part of my visit was my trail ride at the Rocking Star Ranch. On the ride, Joyce educates you on the native culture along with all the plants and what they can be used for. Along with that, there are all sorts of animals Joyce takes in and cares for that she lets you visit with. Great for the Kiddos. Joyce is the real McGraw. The Ride is beautiful and peaceful! Nature is Therapy and a Ride with Joyce on the Rocking Star Ranch is exactly what the Doctor ordered. read more

Marissa N.

5 years ago

I highly recommend this place for all your horseback trail riding needs. The best place to go riding because it is not just at one location, meeting at the trail head is the biggest plus in my book there are beautiful places in the desert that I want to see and you are very much able to do that with Rockin Star Ranch! if you are coming out of town this is the best way for you to see Tucson. Horses are really well broke and know what they are doing very easy to ride and good for all ages! I cant stress how much I would recommend this buisness! They are good people doing good things for their horses & their customers, and love what they do! read more

B B.

7 years ago

The BEST ranch and trail ride experience in Tucson! We are winter "snow bird" residents of Tucson. I have been to many local places that offer trail rides. Ive been taking friends and family that visit us for a ranch experience for 8 years. Rocking Star is the best one in Tucson! Everyone loves this place. It is so much fun... always the highlight for every visitor. Absolutely beautiful location next to Saguaro Nat'l East at base on Rincon Mtns. Fun, knowledgeable guides...you learn to ride and all about desert life. A very cool Tucson experience. I highly recommend Rockin Star Ranch! Joyce and Co will take very good care of you! read more

Andrea R.

1 year ago

We had a wonderful Sunday morning trail ride with Randy, Brayden 1, and Brayden 2. Our riders ranged from 3 years old to 60+ years old and every single person in our party of 10 enjoyed themselves. I set the ride up relatively last minute and received the best customer service over the phone and in person the day of. They took us through the Tanque Verde wash and snapped plenty of pictures along the way. My 3 year old daughter enjoyed riding Stormy and even asked if we could ride again. I will absolutely keep The Rockin' Star Ranch in mind for our next visit to Tucson. read more

Len C.

4 years ago

My wife and I had a winderful experience riding the horses. Chris was a great instructor, he was also very personable and patient. by the time our ride ended we both knew how to mount the horse, get the horse to go and stop, turn them to the right or left the correct way, and best of all besides trotting, we were able to run our horses correctly and safely. Looks like we have found a new past time, who knows down the road maybe owning a pair of horses for ourselves. Again, thank you Chris. We will be going for more rides in the near future. read more

Alicia S.

2 years ago

Had so much fun! Rockin Star Ranch offers an outstanding horseback riding experience. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, ensuring both novice and experienced riders feel comfortable and confident. The horses are well-cared for and well-trained, making for a safe and enjoyable ride. The trails are scenic and well-maintained, providing breathtaking views and a memorable adventure. Whether you're looking for a peaceful ride or an exciting outing, Rockin Star Ranch delivers an exceptional experience. Highly recommended! read more

S R.

5 years ago

What a wonderfully experiences. The owner of the ranch gave us a trail ride in Saguaro national park. We did the wildhorse trail. The view, the horses, lesson and atmosphere was EXCELLENT. He made sure we knew what to do when to do it. Took water breaks. Took pictures of us. Made us feel special and cared for us. My friend even got to take the horse to the trailer. She didnt want to let the horse go. Private tours are the best and personally too. Thanks Chris for a awesome trail ride. This is more the 5 stars. read more

Rylee D.

6 years ago

I have put this off for so long but I'm glad I finally remembered. I went on a trip to Tucson in Arizona in September. I was looking to last minute book a horse ride and had trouble finding anyone who could accompany each my last minute plans and little experience without having to do a full course first. The owner was so helpful and I my very first horse ride was amazing with stormy! He was very friendly and informative about horses and Arizona! When I come back I'll be doing another ride here! read more

Sara J.

3 years ago

I am 74 years old and took my 13 year old granddaughter for a horseback riding adventure while she was here visiting from South Carolina. It was perfect! Aurora, our guide, made sure we were comfortable with the walk/trot and we had a wonderful time. Walking through the wash and crossing the water was both exciting and felt very safe. The scenery was magnificent. We have three more grandchildren visiting with us in April and we will certainly include "The Rockin' Star Ranch" in our plans. read more

Laurie C.

2 years ago

What a wonderful experience! We went on the one hour morning trail ride with Chris. The horses were wonderful for me and my 5 year old grandson -- gentle and beautiful! We rode through the Tanque Verde Creek and it was awesome! The water was running and everything was so lush and green. As others have said, Chris takes many photos and videos, then Air Drops them after the ride. Wonderful! This is our fourth trail ride with Rockin' Star Ranch - can't recommend them highly enough! read more

Leigh P.

4 years ago

I have done 2 trail rides with them now and have had a great experience both times. Its a private ride, beautiful scenery, well trained horses, and a knowledgeable guide. You get to trot and run with your horse if you want to. My five year old got to ride by herself, which she loved! Just such a laid back, personal ride... a very different experience than anything I could find near me. I drive from Scottsdale to go horseback riding here and I will continue to do so! read more

Sean R.

7 years ago

For my second time on Rockin Star Ranch I can only say I had more fun if that's possible. My brother's and my horses were perfectly picked to fit our riding skill level, and as always Ms. Joyce was a captivating conversationalist. I never expected to learn so much about Southern Arizona and Myself on a trail ride. I've already recommend Rockin Star Ranch to all my friends, and I recommend it to anyone interested in saddling up. Expert or beginner they do it all! read more

Mary W.

4 years ago

We had such a wonderful time on a ride as a family for the holidays. Chris, our Wrangler, was so kind, thoughtful, and patient not only with our novice riders, including an 8yr old, but also with my daughter who is visually impaired and fearful of heights. I can't thank you enough for making time for us on the day before Christmas. I recommend Rockin' Star Ranch whether you're newbies or experienced riders, Chris has the ride for you! read more

Jeff M.

1 year ago

My friend came from Denver, I came from Calif to explore Tucson. We chose a horseback riding adventure with Rockin Star Ranch. It was FANTASTIC!!! The host Chris provided a private ride through the wash, gave us a chance to gallop and run the horses, even took pics & video of me and my friend on the ride! This was so frickin awesome, the highlight of our trip to Tucson. I would recommend Chris and his tours with my highest rating! read more

C B.

6 years ago

Great Covid friendly outing for our family! We have only ridden a couple times and Chris did a great job with our family- two adults and two tweens. Some of us felt comfortable trotting/ running others did not and he accommodated easily to each of our comfort levels. Beautiful ride and we will be sure to ride again when we are back in the area. Thanks for a memorable experience! Booking was really convenient online as well. read more

Sean R.

8 years ago

Beautiful evening Trail ride for the Girlfriend and I, our guide Joyce was very pleasant, and knowledgeable about the ranch, and land around it. Being introduced to all the animals made me feel just like one of the family. Everyone on the ranch was very kind, and helpful. I truly had a wonderful experience that I would recommend to any new couple, or group of friends, and can't wait to go back for another ride! read more

The Rockin' Star Ranch - horsebackriding - Updated July 2026

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(16 reviews)

I cannot say enough good things about this place! I'm a…read moremiddle-aged man, who has always wanted to learn how to ride horses, and I finally took the plunge to commit to ten lessons of Western riding. The ranch is beautiful, and just five minutes from my house. The horses are beautiful, healthy, and well-cared-for. David, the owner, Jordan, and all of the instructors are wonderful people and excellent at teaching you all that you need to know. If you live on the east side and want to learn to ride, this is the place to go.

I volunteered at Heart of the Horse Ranch for approximately three years and devoted countless hours…read moreto caring for the horses. I fed, mucked, groomed, administered medications, treated wounds, purchased supplements and supplies, and assisted with therapy group activities. I poured my heart and soul into this ranch. Unfortunately, my experience with management ultimately became deeply troubling. During my approximately three years as a paying customer, I went through six different riding instructors due to constant turnover. In hindsight, this level of turnover was a significant red flag. From January 2025 through April 2026, I paid $85 per week for "lessons" with the "barn manager," who was also my riding instructor. Most of these sessions consisted of trail rides where she rode ahead of me and provided little to no instruction or feedback. I did not feel I was receiving actual riding instruction for what I was paying, but no other instructors were available. After years of volunteering and caring for the horses, I was banned from the property and told to find another place for my own horse, a horse I was gifted "in recognition of and gratitude for the excellent care, attention, and devotion that Donee has provided to Earl over the years." My care and devotion were not taken into consideration as I was not allowed to see Earl until he was moved. I was also accused of making statements I deny making, including the extremely serious accusation that I had wished someone dead. I found the way these conflicts were handled--in front of other staff and boarders--to be inappropriate and emotionally intimidating, which completely violates their code of conduct that they added on 7/16/2026 after my initial review. Following my review, on 7/15/2026, several five-star reviews were posted by people with limited involvement in the ranch's daily operations or lesson program or by the management team, giving the impression that positive reviews were being solicited to counter my honest experience. I love the horses and am grateful for the time I spent with them. However, based on my experience with management and my concerns about the way the ranch was operated, I cannot recommend this ranch.

Rocking K Ranch

(5 reviews)

Lovely lady made reservation. Very Well trained horses. The wrangler gave good instructions & was…read moreattentive! Everyone had a good time On their sunset trail ride.

Colossal Cave Mountain Park Riding Stable

4.6

(21 reviews)

Raven Ranch

3.9

(7 reviews)

Tanque Verde Guest Ranch

3.6

(176 reviews)

•$$$

We have been to Tanque Verde twice, and absolutely loved it both times. The staff are so friendly…read moreand welcoming, and most of them have been there a very long time. There are a wide assortment of rooms. Last time we had a nice Casita. This time we were in a smaller room, but it still had a wood-burning fireplace, which was so cozy on chilling evenings, The property is beautiful, the trail rides are wonderful and the desert landscape is stunning. It is such a treat to be around and ride the horses. We also went on great walks, hikes. They also have tons of activities I'd like to try next time, like pickleball, tennis, archery, fishing, etc. The pool area and Jacuzzi is so relaxing and beautiful. My husband loved the saloon, and it was a fun watering hole for happy hour. I was doing Dry January, and the bartender made me a tasty mocktail, and we met some nice people. The food was very good. We were there for Friday prime rib night, which was awesome, and loved the salad and soup bar. Looking forward to our next trip and hope to bring more family or friends next time!

This review is for Tanque Verde Guest Ranch, where I stayed for a local art retreat…read more Upon Arrival: The two front desk clerks were busy when I arrived, so Valorie who works up front offered to assist me. My room request was accommodated which I appreciated. Valorie gave me several documents to be aware of, including the list of events at the Ranch, costs and requirements. While I was going to be involved in the art retreat all day during my stay, to know these options existed was great and perhaps if I return I would take advantage of them. Be sure to get a map of the property so you can find your room and know where to park if you have a car! While buildings are marked, there are twists and turns on the roads into the property and within the property, so it is helpful to have a map you can use throughout your stay. Guest Room: Was clean upon arrival. There was an extra blanket in the closet which I appreciated since it got down to the 40's at night during my stay. The water in the shower came out nice and hot! There is a coffee pot with regular and decaf coffee stocked each day, iron and ironing board, a small mini fridge for beverages, a safe in the clothes closet, but no microwave. Therefore, for those of you who have gotten used to a microwave in the room, be aware the Ranch does not supply one, but there was coffee, hot water and tea in the restaurant building which you can access along with granola bars and fresh fruit. There was a fireplace in my room, but there was not any wood in the fireplace nor outside the room door. Because the fireplace was around the corner from the bedroom, I did not call the front desk to inquire about having a fire started or wood delivered because I prefer to have eyeballs on fire at all times and a fire would not have been in my sight had I gone to bed while it was still smoldering. Food: Considering the kitchen staff was serving a large number of people at the art retreat at the same time, they did a good job of getting the food out on time, items kept up with being supplied, and having the guests beverages brought to tables timely. Issue: There was a barbecue on Wednesday night which was a great idea with music and large pit fires going to keep us warm because it was chilly outside. But the outdoor temperature made it hard to keep the food warm and by the time we went through the food line and sat down at one of the picnic tables, the food was cold so we passed on this meal after realizing the food temperature issue (chicken, beef, ribs, mac and cheese, and beans). Grounds: There was a fairly decent rain storm a day prior to the Retreat arrival, which resulted in the horse barns, stable areas, and the cattle areas were soaked and muddy. This meant the manure was also being trampled into the mud. Therefore, the smell of manure permeated the Ranch until everything had a chance to dry out by the end of the week. The Ranch hands used machinery to pile up the waste to try to get it out from underneath the animals, but the smell was what it was due to the circumstances. I only bring it up to say, if you don't mind this odor or if you are going to be at the Ranch when rain is not in the forecast, this won't be an issue. But, it is a "Ranch" so some things mixed with mother nature, cannot be avoided! Overall, I found the grounds to be quiet. I heard the guests next to me coming and going when they slammed their room door, but otherwise, it was quiet, which I very much appreciated, since I went there for a personal art Retreat. Staff: The staff at the Ranch were all very pleasant and tried to make people happy. There are golf carts to get people where they are going, or for those who do not want to walk on the uneven surface or prefer not to walk for any reason. Staff tried to make the stay enjoyable. Memorable Issue: There was a power outage during our stay at 8:00 PM. Our group was in The Barn when this happened. Staff said this has never happened before. We were instructed to head to reception so we could be directed accordingly (guest rooms needing a fire for heat as an example). By the time we got to reception flash lights and lanterns for light were all distributed because there was a large group on-site. Therefore, one of the staff walked me back to my room with their cell phone light. When we got to my room I told him my phone flash light only had about 26% life remaining on it. A staff member came with a flash light about an hour later. I believe the Ranch would benefit from a disaster kit which is kept on-site with at least one flashlight per room (among other items) that can be distributed to guests. The electric came back on about 1:00 am, but it was a cold dark night with no heat with the outside temperature in the 40's that night in the dark. This brought my overall rating down to four stars as a result. Overall: This would be a great family vacation or to stay at if you love dude ranches and horses!

Boomerang Riding Adventures