Horseback Riding

There is some beautiful country surrounding The Ranch at South Fork that is perfect for Horseback Riding

Sprucedale Equestrian Center

Sprucedale Guest Ranch has been operating as a dude ranch for 80 years. One of the many unique aspects of this family-owned business, is their horse herd. The Wiltbanks have been raising their own stock since the ranch began.

Normally, the horses come to Sprucedale and live on lush grass in the Sitgraves National Forest from July to November and then return to lower pastures in the region near Lyman Lake when the ranch closes for winter. Due to the lack of proper facilities, it was impossible to offer equestrian activities in the off season. But beginning March 1, 2021, that tradition has changed.

The Wiltbank family is excited to announce the grand opening of Sprucedale Equestrian Center!

This newly acquired facility, found in Springerville, Arizona, provides a covered and outdoor arena, stalls, barns, round pens, tack shed, and a washing station. It is the perfect place to come participate in one-on-one riding lessons and even learn how to train a horse. And when you’re ready to see some country, less than a mile away is Murray Basin Trailhead. This scenic ride follows along the back of Flat Top Mountain and around a beautiful valley edged with ponderosa pine and juniper trees. Other near-by trails lead all the way to the top where the towns of Eagar and Springerville fill the Round Valley below, and one can see from Mount Baldy, past rolling volcanic hills, to the grass plains of Arizona’s high desert.

And if this isn’t enough to slake one’s thirst for equestrian adventure, we are also offering personalized vacation packages at this location from November to May. This Exclusive Cowboy Experience can be molded to fit your fancy. With the Wiltbank herds of horses and cattle nearby, you can spend a couple days and get a taste of life as a real cowboy.

We don’t have cabins to rent in town, so we’re partnering with Reed’s Lodge to provide a discounted room. Included in our price are two full days of riding experience, from 10 am to 4 pm, and a trail lunch. Riding lessons and evaluations are required for all advanced riding activities and will also be included in the price. (Stephanie, I can’t remember the details, so you might have to tweak this.)

It is our hope to provide an opportunity for your equestrian dreams to come true!