Sleigh Rides In and Around Park City

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Giddy up and celebrate winter like you’re in the wild west with an old fashioned sleigh ride. These sleigh rides take place in and around Park City, Utah and are a perfect way to celebrate the holidays, or just enjoy winter itself. 

 

high star ranch ride

High Star Ranch Wagon Rides

Escape to the country at High Star Ranch in Kamas for a clydesdale-led wagon ride around the ranch’s residential property and into snowy terrain. Tours begin at the Country Store & Cafe where guests can grab a hot chocolate or a snack before venturing outdoors and onto the wagon. Unlike many other sleigh rides, this wagon rolls on and off snow, making it a unique horse-drawn experience. It’s also a highly limited option as rides run only until January 6 when most holiday breaks end. 

We arrived just before 5:00 p.m. to check in for our sleigh ride then bundled up under thick blankets in the wagon. A few other families were along for the ride, but it never felt crowded. We loved the early time slot as it allowed us to enjoy a colorful sunset over Park City’s mountains. Having light left also meant better views of the horses and stunning country property! While just the 30-minute sleigh ride was a treat, you can upgrade your experience by adding on photos, dinner, and drinks inside State Road Tavern. However, this experience is available just for guests ages 21 and up. Note that all rides must be purchased online, in advance. No in-person transactions allowed. 

bar-e horses

Image from Bar-e Horses

Bar-E Sleigh Rides

Looking for a private sleigh ride with just your winter crew? You’ll love this company based at the Garff Ranch in Peoa–just 10 minutes from Park City. This secluded mountain setting is just off Highway 40 and includes a 20-minute ride for parties of 2-6 guests. Hot chocolates and warm blankets keep you cozy as you dash through the stunning snowscapes. 

snowed inn sleigh ride

Image from Snowed Inn sleigh ride

Snowed Inn Sleigh Rides and Dinner

When Park City Mountain’s lifts close, its slopes transform into a winter wonderland with horses and sleighs charging up the snowscapes. Book just a sleigh ride for a quick, cozy journey into the mountains, or enjoy the whole experience with a horse-drawn sleigh ride up to the cabin followed by western-style dining with live music. A real cowboy guides your sleigh up the slopes while you stay toasty in blankets. Then you thaw out indoors with hot cider and haute cuisine. Sleigh rides available with or without dinner all winter long. 

sleigh ride utah

Broken Arrow Sleigh Rides

Whether you’re fresh off a day of skiing or just planning for an elegant night at Fireside Dining for raclette and fancy cuisine, the Broken Arrow Sleigh Ride is the perfect pairing. This company operates at Deer Valley Resort and takes guests on 30-minute rides into the mountains under starry skies. It’s a $40 add-on to the cost of dinner and reservations are required; so be sure to book in advance. Fireside Dining takes place near the sleigh rides and features four courses, including raclette cheese served from the stone fireplaces.

Rocky Mountain Outfitters Sleigh Rides

Looking to add a dazzling holiday lights show to your sleigh ride? Head to Jordanelle Reservoir during the holiday season for a ride through a winter wonderland showcase of holiday lights. The spectacle includes lasers and bright lights, making it unsuitable for sensory-sensitive guests, but a welcome treat for others. Sleds are pulled by huge Percheron draft horses and last for approximately 20 minutes, depending on how fast the horses pull. We recommend booking an early time slot as temperatures really dip as the evening wears on. The location at Jordanelle and holiday lights made this one of our favorite rides for this time of year. 

While not included, we loved that cider, s’mores, and hot chocolate were available for purchase. Plus, the all ages rides allow kids 2 and under to ride for free. Rides begin at 6:00 p.m. each evening and run until 9:30 p.m. While we did not attend when Santa did, he is at the sleigh rides every Friday and Saturday. We opted for a ride with other guests, but private rides are available. You can also book groups of up to 15 guests. Once the holiday lights season ends, guests can book a sleigh ride to the Midway Ice Castles with Rocky Mountain Outfitters. It’s one magical way to arrive! 

 

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About Author

Jenny Willden is the Managing Editor of Outdoor Sports Guide and a self-proclaimed gear and grammar nut. She's a member of the North American Travel Journalists Association and the Adventure Travel Trade Association. A lover of adventure and travel, she's happiest when riding horses or snowboarding in Utah’s mountains. Follow Jenny’s exploits on Twitter @jennywillden or Instagram @jlwillden.