Photo: Cottonwood stable
Photo: Cottonwood stable
Cottonwood stable
$$Adventure
🕑 1-2 hours for the ride itself, plus 30 minutes for check-in and instruction👶 Best for ages 6 and up. Most outfitters require riders to be at least 6-7 years old and able to follow safety instructions independently. Older kids and teens especially love the independence of controlling their own horse on the trail.🧡 Saved by 15 families
About
Cottonwood Stable offers families an authentic Wyoming adventure with guided horseback trail rides through stunning backcountry scenery. Their gentle horses and kid-friendly instruction make this perfect for first-time riders, while experienced families will love exploring the scenic trails around Cody. It's an unforgettable way to experience the American West together as a family.
Highlights
- ✓Gentle, well-trained horses perfect for beginners and kids
- ✓Scenic Wyoming backcountry trails with potential wildlife sightings
- ✓Kid-friendly instruction and safety briefings
- ✓Authentic Western riding experience near Yellowstone country
- ✓Professional guides who share local history and nature facts
Pro Tips
- 1.Book morning rides when horses are fresh and temperatures are cooler, especially during summer months
- 2.Wear long pants (jeans work great) and closed-toe shoes with a small heel to protect legs from rubbing and keep feet secure in stirrups
- 3.Arrive 15-20 minutes early for safety briefings and horse matching,guides pair riders with horses based on experience level
- 4.Bring sunscreen, sunglasses with a strap, and a hat that won't blow off on the trail
- 5.Ask about weight limits when booking, as most stables have restrictions for rider safety
Best Time to Visit
Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the best weather and trail conditions. Morning rides are ideal for cooler temperatures and better lighting for photos. Weekday bookings typically offer more personalized attention than busy weekends.
What to Know
Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak summer tourist season in Cody. Most trail rides range from 1-2 hours, with pricing varying by ride length and group size.
Seasonal Notes
Operating season typically runs late spring through early fall (May-September) depending on weather and trail conditions. Winter months see limited or no operations due to snow. Summer is peak season,book well in advance during July and August when Yellowstone tourists visit Cody.
Nearby Eats
Head to Pat O'Hara Brewing Company in downtown Cody for family-friendly pub fare and local craft sodas for the kids, or try Bubba's Bar-B-Que for hearty Western-style BBQ that kids love after a trail ride.
More Activities Near Cody
Adventure
Wyoming Summer Pack Trips
★5.0$$$❤️23
Wyoming Summer Pack Trips offers guided family fly fishing adventures along pristine rivers and streams near Cody, perfect for introducing children to the art of angling. With professional instruction tailored for beginners and the stunning backdrop of Wyoming's wilderness, families create unforgettable outdoor memories together. The highly-rated outfitter (5.0/5 stars) specializes in making fishing accessible and fun for kids of all skill levels.
Adventure
Wyoming River Trips
★4.9$$❤️135
Wyoming River Trips offers the perfect introduction to river rafting for families, with guided float trips down calm, scenic stretches of water near Yellowstone's east entrance. With an impressive 4.9/5 rating from over 300 reviews, their experienced guides make even first-time paddlers feel confident while enjoying the stunning Cody wilderness and potential wildlife sightings along the riverbanks.
Adventure
Absaroka Mountain Lodge
★4.7$$$❤️111
Absaroka Mountain Lodge offers families an authentic Wyoming ranch experience with guided horseback riding, fly fishing, and mountain adventures in the stunning North Fork Valley near Yellowstone. This full-service lodge combines comfortable accommodations with expert-led outdoor activities perfect for introducing kids to Western heritage and wilderness exploration.
Cafe
Ponderosa Candy Company
$❤️10
Ponderosa Candy Company is a delightful old-fashioned candy shop in Cody that feels like stepping back in time. Kids will be wide-eyed at the displays of homemade fudge, colorful candies, and creamy ice cream, making it the perfect sweet reward after exploring nearby Buffalo Bill attractions or Yellowstone.