Looking for a way to unplug and have fun outdoors? Take a trail ride. We recently had the chance to saddle up and go on a trail ride together near Sulphur, Oklahoma. We had SOOO much fun that we didn’t want it to end.
A trail ride can be a great way to get outdoors, explore an area, and just have fun together. Join us as we hit the trail with Arbuckle Trail Rides.
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Family Trail Ride
Since turning 40, I promised myself that I would do and see more every month. Instead of the same old thing, we’re doing something different and experiencing that together as a family. Although we have all ridden on horseback before, we’ve never been on a trail ride together. It was about time to saddle up (pun intended) and have some fun.
The day of our ride was ideal for a trail ride. It was in the mid 80’s (that’s rare for late June in Oklahoma) and there was a gentle breeze. We arrived at the ranch and got ready for our ride. The kids were all fitted with helmets (safety first) and taken to the arena to work with their horses.
Since we haven’t been on horses in years, we arrived early so that we could all get comfortable being in the saddle. As part of the safety procedures, we were all put on our horses prior to the trail ride and allowed time in an enclosed arena. There we worked on directing our horse, getting the horse to go forward, and just building confidence as a rider. I really appreciated that extra time, because it would have been awful if we got out on the ride and we couldn’t get our horses to work with us.
Guided Trail Ride
When we were all ready, we headed out on a hour trail ride with owner Cheri and another rider.
Cheri guided us through the ranch, through wooded areas, and around ponds. She pointed out wildlife and other areas during our ride. In that clump of grass, there was a coyote den, a place where pups were raised. I never thought about where a coyote had her pups before, but I now I know.
The kids had a great time. They would point out all kinds of things as we rode. When asked, they were ready for some “fun” riding up and down hills. They loved taking the horses up the pond banks and across streams. I’m sure they would have galloped across the fields if they were allowed to.
I loved how beautiful the ranch was. Everything was lush and green after all the rain the area received. I have to agree that an hour went way too quickly, but I loved every minute of it. As we were heading back, the kids said they were ready for their next ride. That made me smile.
Taking a trail ride with my husband and children was an amazing experience, one that I’ll have to do again. It was a great way to unplug from everything and have fun with them outdoors. Riding on horseback gives you a different view of things that you can’t get from a car or even from a hike. It’s a natural adventure everyone should have.
Arbuckle Trail Rides
Cheri at Arbuckle Trail Rides was a great guide. Planning this ride with her was easy and I’d welcome the chance to visit her ranch again. She offers trail rides year round. You can choose between one hour and full-day rides. Two fundraising rides (one in the spring & one in the fall) are offered that benefit St. Jude’s Hospital. My family would love to participate in one of these rides because it takes place on one of the largest ranches in southern Oklahoma. This ranch only allows riders on their property during these rides. Cheri says that they are great experiences and they benefit a great cause.
Sulphur is only a little over an hour’s drive from Oklahoma City and 2 hours from Dallas. It’s perfect for a day trip or a short weekend getaway. The area is absolutely beautiful too and has several great attractions unique to the area. If you are in the Sulphur area, you should definitely check out Arbuckle Trail Rides for a unique outdoor experience. You’ll love the opportunity to ride in this beautiful country.
Take a look at a few of the places in central and souther Oklahoma, we have been so far:
- Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden
- Science Museum Oklahoma
- Adventure Riversports in the Boathouse District
- Iron Star Barbecue
- The Toy and Action Figure Museum
- Bob’s Pig Shop (One of Oklahoma’s longest continuously run businesses)
What adventure will you do next?
Sounds like an amazing trail ride adventure! I love how you made it a family activity after turning 40. The safety measures, like getting fitted with helmets and practicing in the arena, are spot-on. And that coyote den discovery? So cool! It makes me wonder what other hidden gems are out there on these trails. Have you guys planned another ride soon? I’m itching to hear more about your equestrian escapades!