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Horse Riding

Ojai Valley Trail Riding Company

šŸ“ Ojai, CA

ā˜…4.8(114 Google reviews)šŸ‘¶6+

Working ranch at Oso Ranch offering guided trail rides along the Oso Trail for ages 6 and up. Horses include former champions from around the world, suitable for all skill levels. Pony rides, lessons, and summer camps also available.

āœ“ Guide Donna praisedāœ“ Former champion horsesāœ“ Beginner-friendly trailsāœ“ Ages 6+āœ“ Pony rides availableāœ“ Beautiful Ojai scenery
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ā˜…ā˜…ā˜…ā˜…ā˜…Featured review by Wook Chung

This is one of the premier ranches to be able to ride horses. You go out on a horse to the Oso Trail next to the Ventura River. It's a wonderful experience altogether, perfect for kids. Our riding guid Donna was fabulous and was amazing with the kids. She got them familiarized with the animals, taught them so much about riding, and we had fun conversations throughout the trail ride. The kids were able to check out various horses and animals at the ranch, which was also fun. If you're in Ojai, and especially with kids, absolutely recommend this ranch.

šŸ† Family Action Verdict

Best for families with children aged 6 and up experiencing trail riding for the first time. The guides — particularly Donna — are skilled at building confidence in nervous young riders before the trail even begins. The easy Oso Trail terrain and well-trained horses remove anxiety for first-timers.

ā„¹ļø What to Know Before You Go

šŸ’”Book ahead on busy weekends — the ranch fills up and accommodating last-minute requests depends on availability
ā°Ask for guide Donna specifically — she earns repeated praise for her work with children and beginners
šŸŽŸļøPlan time after the ride to meet the other ranch animals beyond the trail horses
šŸš—The Oso Trail is beginner-appropriate — no riding experience required for ages 6 and up

šŸ’¬ What Families Are Saying

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4.8
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114 Google reviews

Exceptional guides, especially Donna45%
Well-trained, calm horses30%
Beautiful trail and ranch setting15%
Great with children and first-timers10%
W

Wook Chung

a year ago

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ā€œThis is one of the premier ranches to be able to ride horses. You go out on a horse to the Oso Trail next to the Ventura River. It's a wonderful experience altogether, perfect for kids. Our riding guid Donna was fabulous and was amazing with the kids. She got them familiarized with the animals, taught them so much about riding, and we had fun conversations throughout the trail ride. The kids were able to check out various horses and animals at the ranch, which was also fun. If you're in Ojai, and especially with kids, absolutely recommend this ranch.ā€

J

Jackie Pratt

a year ago

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ā€œSusan is great! She accommodated our last minute visit during a very busy weekend. Donna, our guide, was very engaging and gave us some fun facts. The trail was easy with pretty views in the distance! Highly recommend this for a few hour outing.ā€

D

David Hatfield

a year ago

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ā€œReally great spot and nice staff! We were visiting from San Diego and went for a one hour ride with Donna. Great facility, horses were so nice and relaxed. Highly recommend if your in the area and want to see some view and love horsesā€

T

Tetiana Shirakian

6 months ago

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ā€œI’m so happy we discovered this place! Kids had nice ride, and tons of happiness! And they have on the farm famous Ice horse from the ad!!!!ā€

Reviews from Google

Overview

Ojai Valley Trail Riding Company operates from Oso Ranch along the Oso Trail through the Ventura River valley, adjacent to the Ojai Land Conservancy. The ranch houses former champion horses trained for riders of any skill level. Guided trail rides suit complete beginners through experienced riders. Guide Donna receives repeated individual praise for her work with children — getting them comfortable, teaching handling basics, and sharing knowledge throughout the ride.