Horseback Riding
Equine Opportunities in Pinedale, Wyoming
The months between June and October are perfect months for the horse enthusiast to visit the Pinedale area. Opportunities to interact with horses range anywhere from viewing the local rodeo, to horseback riding in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, to visiting guest and dude ranches.
The equestrian opportunities in the Pinedale, Wyoming area are extensive, and the weather is ideal during the months of June through October.
For those who love horses, but are not quite ready to get in the saddle, the Pinedale Rodeo Grounds offer various equestrian events available for public attendance. For the horse enthusiast more accustomed to the saddle, there are trails within the Bridger-Teton National Forest, along the Continental Divide, as well as the historic Oregon Trail, with professional guides available upon request. Dude ranches are another popular destination for tourists curious about the cowboy culture, or for those simply looking to gain more experience around horses.
Bridger-Teton National Forest Wilderness Trailheads
The following trailheads provide access to the Bridger Wilderness for people on horseback. Horseback riders planning an overnight excursion need a permit. Groups are limited to 15 people.
- Green River Lakes Trailhead:
52 miles from Pinedale. Fair to rough roads. High hiking use and moderate stock use. Access to Highline Trail (Continental Divide National Scenic Trail) and Lakeside Trail. - New Fork Lakes Trailhead:
24 miles from Pinedale. Fair roads. Moderate hiking use and moderate stock use. Access to New Fork Canyon Trail. - Elkhart Park Trailhead:
16 miles from Pinedale. Paved road. High hiking and stock use. Access to Pole Creek Trail. - Boulder Creek Trail:
25 miles from Pinedale. Fair roads. Moderate hiking and stock use. Access to Boulder Canyon and Blueberry Lake trails. - Scab Creek Trailhead:
24 miles from Pinedale. Fair roads. Moderate hiking use and high stock use. Access to Lowline Trail. - Big Sandy Trailhead:
54 miles from Pinedale. Rough roads. High hiking and stock use. Access to Highline, Lowline and Fremont trails.
Equestrian Facilities
The Pinedale, Wyoming area has several options for both indoor and outdoor riding facilities.
Pinedale Rodeo Grounds
45 acres of outdoor grounds located in the heart of Pinedale. Year-round events include regional and professional rodeo productions, riding clinics, and other horse-related events. To check for availability, please contact directly.
Location:
9888 HWY 191
Pinedale, WY 82941
Contact:
Sublette County Sporting Association
307-367-2120
Sublette County Fairgrounds
The Sublette County Fairgrounds are approximately 30 minutes from Pinedale. The facility is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Availability:
Refer to the Events Schedule, or call 307-276-3737. Tokens are available for purchase in the concession area of the Ag Center. Tokens will turn on the lights for $5/hour.
Location:
10937 Highway 189
Big Piney, WY 83113
Contact:
Fairground Manager
307-276-3349
Sagebrush Downs Oval Racetrack
An outdoor oval racetrack, located approximately ten miles from Pinedale. The racetrack hosts events such as horse racing, field training, cutter races, etc. Call for availability.
Location:
643 ST HWY 352
Cora, WY 82925
Contact:
307-367-4372
Pinedale Area Riding Tips
- Overnight horse trips in Wilderness Areas require a permit. Permit fees are minimal and can be obtained at the Pinedale Ranger District office.
- If carrying equine feed within the Bridger-Teton National Forest, it must be certified Weed-free.
- If you ride during the fall hunting season, be sure to wear hunter orange.
- Check in with the Pinedale, Big Piney Ranger District, or the BLM Pinedale Field offices for up-to-date information on trail conditions, facilities, fire danger, and regulations.
- Carry a compact first-aid kit in case of emergencies and keep in mind that cell phone reception can be unreliable.