When searching for fun things to do in Pagosa Springs, few experiences capture the magic of Colorado’s winter wonderland quite like a horse-drawn ride. Nestled in the San Juan Mountains, Pagosa Springs blends natural hot springs, outdoor adventure, and old-fashioned charm. Buckaroos Horse-Drawn Rides delivers a storybook-worthy experience that feels timeless and unforgettable.
My husband and I, Samantha, discovered this hidden gem during our Pagosa Springs anniversary trip.
It quickly became the highlight of our romantic getaway. Ideal for couples, families, or visitors, this enchanting adventure promises lasting memories on any Colorado vacation.
Buckaroos Horse-Drawn Rides caters to various preferences and group sizes with their flexible offerings:
Public Scenic Rides: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small families who want to share the experience with other visitors. These scheduled rides offer great value and opportunities to meet fellow adventurers. Check Availability
Private Rides: Ideal for romantic occasions, proposals, anniversaries, or intimate family celebrations. You can take up to six guests on a private ride. Having the wagon or sleigh to yourselves creates an incredibly personal experience. Check Availability
Dinner Sleigh Rides (NEW!): Buckaroos recently introduced dinner sleigh rides, combining the romance of a horse-drawn journey with a delicious meal. This new offering will definitely become one of the most sought-after things to do in Pagosa Springs. Check Availability
The versatility of their offerings means there’s an option for every season, occasion, and budget—making this activity accessible whether you’re planning a budget-friendly family trip or a luxury romantic escape.
Before we dive into the magic of horse-drawn rides, let’s talk logistics. Pagosa Springs is easily accessible from multiple Colorado locations. It is an ideal destination for both in-state visitors and out-of-town travelers.
From Colorado Springs: The drive takes approximately 4.5 to 5 hours via Highway 24 South and US-160 West. The route takes you through stunning mountain passes and offers spectacular scenery, especially during winter months when snow blankets the San Juan Mountains.
From Denver: Plan for a 5.5 to 6-hour drive heading southwest through the mountains. Take US-285 South through scenic areas like Fairplay and continue through South Fork before reaching Pagosa Springs.
Flying In: Travelers from outside Colorado can fly into Durango-La Plata County Airport, located just 60 miles west of Pagosa Springs—about an hour’s drive through breathtaking mountain terrain.
The journey itself becomes part of the adventure, with each mile bringing you deeper into Colorado’s rugged beauty. And speaking of Colorado adventures, if you’re exploring the state’s culinary scene, don’t miss the opportunity to experience food tours in Colorado, particularly in Colorado Springs where Rocky Mountain Food Tours showcases the region’s best local flavors, craft breweries, and hidden culinary gems—a perfect complement to your outdoor adventures in Pagosa Springs.
Upon arriving at Buckaroos Horse-Drawn Rides, we were introduced to the stars of the show: Mitch and Mike, two magnificent brother horses with a fascinating backstory. These gentle giants hailed from an Amish farm before making their way to Colorado, where they now spend their days pulling wagons and sleighs through some of the most beautiful terrain in the Rocky Mountains.
Watching them work together with such perfect synchronization, you could tell these brothers shared a special bond. Their calm demeanor and steady pace created an atmosphere of tranquility that allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the stunning surroundings. These weren’t just working horses—they were ambassadors of a slower, more intentional way of experiencing the mountains.
While we had hoped for a traditional sleigh ride, Mother Nature had other plans—there simply wasn’t enough snow accumulated for the sleigh that day. However, this turned out to be a blessing in disguise. The wagon ride offered unobstructed views of the landscape and a surprisingly smooth journey through the rolling terrain of the ranch.
Our driver, Bryan, proved to be more than just an expert horseman. He was a wealth of knowledge about Pagosa Springs and the surrounding area, sharing insider tips on the best things to do in Pagosa Springs. Between the rhythmic clip-clop of Mitch and Mike’s hooves, Bryan regaled us with stories about hidden waterfalls tucked away in the forest, scenic hiking trails that offer unparalleled mountain views, and the famous “hippy dips”—natural hot spring pools along the San Juan River where locals and adventurous visitors soak in geothermal waters surrounded by wilderness.
As the crisp mountain air nipped at our cheeks, Bryan offered us a choice between hot chocolate and hot apple cider. For those looking to add a little extra warmth, peppermint schnapps and cinnamon whiskey were available to spike the drinks. A nice touch for an adult evening ride.
Bryan also shared a delightful piece of Hollywood trivia: the ranch where Buckaroos operates served as a filming location for the Christmas movie “Christmas Cards.” As we rode through the property, it was easy to see why filmmakers chose this location—the picturesque scenery, rustic charm, and magical atmosphere create a setting that feels like it belongs in a Hallmark movie.
In a world that moves at breakneck speed, there’s something profoundly restorative about slowing down to the pace of a horse-drawn wagon. The experience offers:
When you’re researching things to do in Pagosa Springs, consider building a full weekend itinerary. The town offers world-renowned hot springs, excellent restaurants, charming shops, and proximity to incredible outdoor recreation.
After your horse-drawn ride, you might explore the town’s hot springs resorts, hike to one of those hidden waterfalls Bryan mentioned, or venture into Wolf Creek Ski Area just 25 miles away. The region truly offers something for every type of traveler.
For culinary enthusiasts who love discovering local flavors across Colorado, remember that food tours in Colorado provide similar immersive experiences in different settings. This includes the guided culinary adventures offered by Rocky Mountain Food Tours in Colorado Springs. Join us to taste your way through the city’s best eateries while learning about local history and culture.
Our anniversary trip to Pagosa Springs exceeded every expectation, largely thanks to the magical hour we spent with Mitch, Mike, and Bryan at Buckaroos Horse-Drawn Rides. Whether you choose a public scenic ride, private sunset wagon experience, or the new dinner sleigh ride option, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable addition to your Colorado adventure.
This isn’t just another tourist activity. It’s a chance to create lasting memories while connecting with Colorado’s western heritage and natural beauty. When you’re compiling your list of things to do in Pagosa Springs, make sure Buckaroos Horse-Drawn Rides tops that list. Your future self will thank you for choosing an experience that captures the true spirit of the Rocky Mountains.
Rocky Mountain Food Tours is the most fun thing to do in Colorado. We are proud to promote other exceptional Colorado experiences. When you book a wagon or sleigh ride in Pagosa Springs through our recommendations, you’re supporting local businesses while discovering the best of what our state has to offer.
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