Rimrock Outfitters

Located in the foothills of Colorado's La Plata Mountains, Rimrock Outfitters is a family-owned business that has been operating for over 70 years, offering a range of horseback riding tours and outdoor experiences. With a high average customer rating of 4.8 stars, the establishment has built a strong reputation for providing memorable excursions into the San Juan National Forest. The business, started by Perry and Lynne Lewis, has evolved from offering simple hourly rides to a comprehensive suite of adventures including breakfast and dinner rides, multi-day camping trips, and even horse-drawn wagon rides. This variety caters to a wide spectrum of clients, from individuals and families to large corporate retreats.

The Riding Experience and Staff

A recurring theme in customer feedback is the quality of the staff and the gentle nature of the horses. Guides like Jennifer, Brianna, and Brandon are consistently praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and professional, contributing significantly to the overall positive experience. Many clients, particularly those with children or first-time riders, highlight the staff's ability to make them feel safe and comfortable. The horses are described as well-trained, lovely, and gentle, with the outfitter taking care to match each rider's ability and experience level to a suitable horse. This careful pairing is crucial for ensuring safety and enjoyment on the trail, a detail that makes this a standout option for family-friendly activities.

The variety of available rides is a significant asset. Clients can choose from short one-hour excursions to immersive all-day adventures that climb up to 9,300 feet in elevation. One of the most frequently mentioned offerings is the breakfast ride, where guests enjoy a one-hour ride to a cookout site for a hearty meal prepared by a dedicated chef before riding back. This unique blend of riding and rustic dining provides a distinct experience that many patrons find to be a highlight of their trip. Dinner rides featuring top sirloin steaks cooked over an open fire are also available, adding to their portfolio of specialized outdoor excursions.

Scenery and Trails

The trails themselves are a major draw. Operating with permits for the San Juan National Forest and the Ute Mountain Tribal Park, Rimrock Outfitters provides access to stunning and diverse landscapes. Riders traverse through aspen and pine forests, follow the Mancos River, and cross open mountain meadows with spectacular views of peaks like Mount Hesperus. The all-day ride, for instance, takes guests to the top of the Rimrocks, offering a panoramic vista that on a clear day can encompass parts of all four states in the Four Corners region. These scenic journeys offer ample opportunities for photography, and the horses are accustomed to stopping for pictures. This focus on the natural environment positions them well within the eco-tourism sector.

Points for Consideration

While the vast majority of feedback is overwhelmingly positive, prospective customers should be aware of a few points. Some past online discussions have mentioned mixed experiences with a guide named Lynn, particularly concerning interactions with children. However, it is important to note that more recent reviews describe positive and professional experiences with the same guide, suggesting that any past issues may have been isolated or have since been addressed. As with any service, individual experiences can vary, but the current consensus trends strongly positive.

Another consideration is the nature of outdoor activities. One review noted their ride was affected by rain and wished the experience could have been longer. This highlights two realities: weather in the Rocky Mountains can be unpredictable, and guests should come prepared with appropriate attire like a jacket. Secondly, the fact that guests wish the rides were longer is often a testament to how much they enjoyed the experience. Some potential clients might also find the pricing to be on the higher end compared to other local options, which is a factor to weigh against the personalized service and quality of the excursions offered.

Additional Services and Booking Information

Beyond standard trail rides, this travel agency diversifies its offerings to include multi-day pack trips into the La Plata Mountains, wilderness camping, and even horse-drawn carriage services for weddings and parades. This wide array of services demonstrates a deep expertise in equestrian-based tourism. For those interested in cultural experiences, they also offer trips into the Ute Mountain Tribal Park, where a Native American accompanies the group to ancient cliff dwellings.

Rimrock Outfitters is located at 12885 Co Rd 44, Mancos, Colorado, conveniently situated between Durango and Mesa Verde National Park. They operate from Monday to Saturday, 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and are closed on Sundays. Given the personalized nature of their tours and their popularity, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for specialty rides like the breakfast or dinner cookouts, which require reservations by 9:00 AM on the day of the ride. The minimum age for trail riding is six years old, though younger children may be offered a lead-around ride in the corral.

Final Assessment

In summary, Rimrock Outfitters presents itself as a premier provider of authentic outdoor adventures. The business leverages its long family history, experienced staff, and well-cared-for horses to deliver high-quality experiences. The stunning scenery of the San Juan National Forest provides a dramatic backdrop for a range of activities, from short family rides to extensive pack trips. While potential customers should consider factors like weather and pricing, the overwhelmingly positive reviews regarding staff friendliness, safety, and the unique offerings like meal-included rides suggest a reliable and highly-regarded operation for anyone seeking an authentic Colorado horseback adventure.