Imagine riding a horse through a forest of trees so tall, you can’t even see the tops.
Sunlight peeks through branches that have been growing for hundreds of years, and the only sounds you hear are birds and hoofsteps.
No big crowds. No rush. Just you, your horse, and some of the tallest trees on Earth.
If you’re looking for a totally different way to see the redwoods, this ride is it.
Keep reading, because this isn’t your average trail ride.
Where Is It?
Redwood Creek Buckarettes is in the tiny town of Orick, way up in Northern California, right along the scenic Highway 101.
It’s located between the Pacific Ocean and the towering trees of Redwood National and State Parks.
You’re looking at about a 5.5-hour drive north from San Francisco, or nearly an hour from Crescent City.
Coming from Eureka? It’s a quick and easy 50-minute cruise up the coast.
About
If you’ve ever dreamed of riding a horse through a forest of giant redwoods like something straight out of a movie, Redwood Creek Buckarettes is your spot.
This family-run outfitter is all about relaxed, small-group horseback rides through some of the most jaw-dropping landscapes in California.
Located just outside the entrance to Redwood National Park, these rides take you right into the heart of old-growth redwood territory.
We’re talking towering trees that stretch over 300 feet tall, moss-covered trails, and some serious peace and quiet.
The vibe here is friendly and down-to-earth.
The guides are locals who know the forest like the back of their hand, and they’ll keep you laughing, learning, and feeling totally at ease the entire ride.
Whether you’re a total beginner or you’ve been in the saddle for years, the experience is designed to be fun, comfortable, and seriously memorable.
You won’t be galloping through open fields or doing anything wild.
It’s a calm, scenic trail ride at a walking pace, perfect for soaking up the crazy beauty all around you.
And honestly, with trees this big and views this good, you won’t want to rush it anyway.
Things To Do
Scenic Trail Rides Through the Redwoods
This is the main event, and it’s every bit as magical as it sounds.
Redwood Creek Buckarettes offers guided horseback rides through towering redwood groves, fern-covered trails, and along the peaceful banks of Redwood Creek.
They have various different rides available including the 1.5-hour Goose Pen Ride, the 2-hour Majestic Tour and the 4-hour Picnic Tour.
The pace is slow and steady, which means you’ll have plenty of time to take in the forest views, spot wildlife like Roosevelt elk and snap a few photos from the saddle.
The trails are super gentle, so you don’t need any riding experience to join in.
Even nervous first-timers walk away grinning.
Every ride starts with a quick intro and safety talk, and the horses are total sweethearts—calm, well-trained, and clearly loved by the team.
Meet the Horses
If you’re a horse lover, you’re gonna be in heaven.
The Buckarettes crew takes amazing care of their animals, and they’re more than happy to let you spend a little extra time getting to know your horse before or after your ride.
Give them a few pats or just hang out and soak up the ranch vibes.
Soak Up the Scenery
Even if you’re not riding, this spot is worth a visit just for the setting.
The ranch sits near Redwood Creek, with scenic forest views surrounding the area.
Bring a picnic, chill by the water, or just sit and listen to the wind rustling through trees that have been standing for hundreds of years.
It’s peaceful, quiet, and super photogenic.
If you’re lucky, you might even spot elk grazing nearby or catch the fog rolling through the forest.
Know Before You Go
Best Time to Visit
Summer and early fall are prime time.
From June through September, the weather is usually dry, mild, and perfect for trail riding.
You’ll get clearer skies, better creek conditions, and the full-on glow of sunshine filtering through the redwoods.
Spring can be beautiful too, but be ready for a little mud and light rain.
Winter is the rainiest season, and rides are often cancelled due to rain.
Hours and Availability
Redwood Creek Buckarettes usually operates from late spring through early fall, depending on weather and trail conditions.
Rides are offered daily, but hours can vary, and space is limited, so reservations are a must.
They don’t really do walk-ins so be sure to call ahead to lock in your spot.
You’ll need to arrive about 20 minutes early to check in and meet your horse.
Pricing
At the time of writing, trail rides start at $125 per person for a 1.5-hour tour.
Kids need to be at least 6 years old to ride, and there’s a 235 lbs weight limit for the safety of the horses.
Tips for the guides are totally appreciated and well-deserved.
How to Get There
The ranch is located just off Highway 101 in Orick.
Parking is free and super easy.
Check road conditions before your visit, especially after heavy rain.
What to Wear
This is not the time for flip-flops.
Wear closed-toe shoes, preferably boots or sneakers, and long pants to avoid leg rubs from the saddle.
Layers are a good idea too, since coastal redwood weather can shift from sunny to chilly in no time.
Don’t forget sunscreen and bug spray, especially in late summer.
Helmets are provided, and riders aged 17 and under are required to wear one.
Nearby Things to Do
You’re right next to Redwood National and State Parks, so you’ve got tons of epic hikes and scenic drives within minutes.
Check out the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail (1.5 miles) for some serious redwood eye candy.
Or cruise the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway for a 10-mile drive packed with photo stops and picnic spots.
Gold Bluffs Beach and Fern Canyon are just down the road too.
Fern Canyon is the one with the 50-foot-high mossy walls featured in Jurassic Park 2, and it’s only a short hike.
Need a snack after your ride? Hit up the EdeBee’s Snack Shack in Orick for a burger and ice cream shake combo that totally hits the spot.
Or if you’re camping, there are several sites nearby like Elk Prairie Campground where you might literally wake up to elk grazing outside your tent.
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