Bader Ranch Trail Co.

Our Mission

At Bader Ranch Trail Co. we provide safe, professional, and enriching guided horseback rides, allowing guests to form deeper connections with nature and the wilderness. Through immersive experiences, guests can explore the Sierra Nevada on well-trained, dependable horses, guided by seasoned professionals.

Saddle Up for Your Next Adventure

FAQs

What should I wear on my ride?

For your safety and comfort, we recommend the following attire:

  • Helmets: All minors are required to wear riding helmets for insurance purposes. We provide a variety of helmet sizes if your child doesn't have one. Helmets are optional for adults.

  • Clothing: Long pants are strongly recommended to protect your legs during the ride.

  • Footwear: Boots with a heel are required. Cowboy boots are ideal, as hiking boots with heavy tread can be unsafe in stirrups.

  • Hats: A well-fitted hat is a great way to protect yourself from the sun. Cowboy hats must have stampede strings to keep them secure. Ball caps should fit snugly and be fastened tightly.

  • What not to bring: Space is limited on horseback, so please leave purses, cameras, and backpacks behind.

  • Layers: As elevation increases, temperatures can drop. We recommend dressing in layers—but keep in mind that any clothing you remove must fit behind your saddle.

  • Other essentials: Polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, and a lightweight waterproof jacket are all smart additions for sun and weather protection.

What if I am over the weight limit?

At Bader Ranch Trail Co., the health and well-being of our horses is our top priority. Our horses work hard navigating steep and rugged terrain, and it's essential that we protect them by not exceeding safe weight limits.

If you don’t fall within our riding weight limit, don’t worry—there are still ways to enjoy meaningful time with our horses! We offer alternative experiences such as groundwork sessions and hands-on activities at the ranch.

We appreciate your understanding and support in putting the welfare of our equine partners first. Please reach out to learn more about the options available!

Will there be restrooms on the ride?

If you're expecting a backcountry restroom—you got it! Out on the trail, the only outhouse is the one nature provides. Our wranglers carry compostable toilet paper just in case nature calls, but we strongly recommend making a pit stop before you mount up.

Where will I meet my guide/is transportation provided?

Our guides will be focused on transporting and preparing your horses at the trailhead, so guests are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from the ride location.

Depending on the service you book, you’ll receive a map link and detailed directions prior to your ride. This gives you plenty of time to plan your route and arrive safely and on time.

If you're visiting from out of town and need help finding transportation options, we’re happy to point you in the right direction!

Is Bader Ranch Trail Co. accessible?

We would love to welcome you to Bader Ranch Trail Co. and share the joy of horsemanship with everyone, but please note that our trail rides take place on demanding and rugged terrain in remote locations, where support and accessibility accommodations are limited.

If you have concerns about how your abilities might affect your participation, we encourage you to reach out. We’d be more than happy to discuss alternative ways for you to be involved and experience time with horses in a meaningful and enjoyable way.

Please note that we are not trained in hippotherapy or therapeutic riding, but we’re more than willing to connect you with trusted programs in the community that specialize in those services.

Your comfort and safety are our top priorities, and we’ll do our best to provide options that make you feel included and supported.

How rigorous is horseback riding?

Horseback riding is an incredible way to explore terrain that’s often inaccessible on foot, but that doesn’t mean it’s effortless! Riding can be physically demanding, especially over rugged or elevated terrain.

If you have any physical limitations, past injuries, or concerns such as a fear of heights, we encourage you to contact us before booking. We're happy to discuss your needs and help determine if a ride is the right fit for you.

Is this a good fit for my children?

Children ages 7 and up are welcome on our trail rides! For safety, all minors are required to wear riding helmets (we provide them if needed). Our guides are experienced working with young riders and know how to make the experience fun, engaging, and even a little adventurous.

That said, our all-day ride is best suited for athletic kids with a genuine interest in riding, as it can be physically demanding.

If you're riding with your child, we kindly ask that you allow our wranglers to take the lead in coaching—they’re trained professionals who specialize in keeping riders safe and confident. Think of it as your chance to relax, enjoy the scenery, and let someone else take the reins for a bit!

Woman wearing a cowboy hat and a patterned shawl, smiling in a sunny outdoor setting with trees in the background.
Two people dressed in Western attire sitting on a fallen log with two Border Collie dogs and three saddled horses in a wooded area.
Woman riding a horse in a grassy landscape with distant mountains.
Two people horseback riding on a scenic view overlooking a valley and mountains, with trees in the foreground and a clear blue sky.
Three people in cowboy attire walking with horses outdoors.
Cowboy riding a brown horse in a forest
Three people riding horses in an open field with mountains and trees in the background.
Person in cowboy hat with Western-style sweater and leather pants preparing to saddle a horse in a forest setting.

  • "Couldn't find a better place to ride horses in Nevada."

    Mason O.

  • "Bader Ranch Trail Co. is a great representation of horsemanship, professionalism, and fun. All the horses are extremely well cared for, and it shows."

    Sam W.

  • "If you are looking to learn how to ride horses for the first time Bader Ranch is a great choice."

    Jack B.

  • "Bader Ranch Trail Co. is a beautifully located and professionally run ranch that offers horse riding lessons and trail rides. I wouldn't ever pass up an opportunity to take a trail ride with Bader Ranch."

    Julia C.

  • "Jordan was incredibly knowledgeable and kind, making me feel completely at ease from the start. If you're looking for a skilled and patient instructor, I highly recommend her."

    Mckinna J.

  • "It's the first place I recommend for lessons or boarding."

    Makayla K.

  • "The ranch is very well kept and up-to-date and has all the accommodations you would need for a very comfortable visit. The ranch is positioned right against the mountains and the views are phenomenal."

    Julia F.

  • "Jordan is the most kind, patient trainer I have ever had the pleasure of riding with. The ranch is beautifully situated in a quiet corner of the Carson Valley, nestled close to Job's Peak."

    Rose B.

  • "If you are looking for a place to trail ride, learn to ride horses, or a place to continue to grow your horsemanship skills I would highly recommend Bader Ranch Trail Co. Jordan Bader has a great depth of equine knowledge and works well with people of all ages with great enthusiasm."

    Annemarie V.