At Ricochet Ridge Ranch, rides begin in open pasture before veering into coastal forest and down toward the beach. The ranch sits just north of Fort Bragg, across from MacKerricher State Park, with direct access to trails that pass through cypress groves, grassy dunes, and stretches of hard-packed sand.
Horses are well-schooled and matched to each rider - calm, steady, and responsive across shifting terrain. Helmets are provided, and guides give straightforward instructions before setting out, covering the basics of posture, steering, and stopping. The tone stays casual but attentive, with room to ask questions or just settle in.
Rides come in different formats. The one-hour loop covers forest and partial beach access, while the two-hour version includes more time along the shoreline. Longer rides into the redwoods are also available by request, offering a deeper experience inland.
Reservations are recommended, especially in peak season, though walk-ins are accepted when space allows. Dogs stay behind, but younger kids can often join, depending on the day’s route. Whether it’s your first time riding or just your first time riding here, the setup is built to ease people into the saddle - and let the landscape do the rest.