*Review is for seasonal sleigh ride only* I have to say all staff was really welcoming and helpful-- from the lady who booked our ride on the phone to the guys who took us on our sleigh ride. Everyone was polite, patient with us and our kids, and friendly. The experience, however, wasn't totally what I expected. The cost to ride is $30 for adults and $15 for kids. Luckily, babies are free. For that price and because you have to make a reservation, I kind of expected there to be a curated tour and a specific area they had set up to view lights, one family per sleigh, and just for it to be more... personal. Unfortunately, it was none of those things. We arrived, paid, and followed a man who said our sleigh was ready for us... with another family. I guess I understand wanting to fill the sleigh, but I wasn't expecting to have to share the experience. There were 3 bench seats on the sleigh and we were placed in the very back. While we still could see, it made it more difficult and hard to hear/communicate with our sleigh driver/guide. Our driver and guide were friendly and asked us questions/tried to interact a bit with everyone, but they ended up talking mostly to the family seated in front of us. The guide also asked everyone if they liked Christmas music and just chose a playlist on his phone. The loop we rode wasn't on Grindstone's property at all, but around the town. So the lights we saw were whatever the rental properties and townspeople decided to put up, which was disappointing. We stopped at the turn around point and the guide got down and took cell phone pictures of each party, which was a nice gesture. The whole experience was just sort of lack luster. It was a great idea, but I don't think it was executed well and is a total tourist trap. The driver and guide mentioned that they accepted tips. While they were friendly, I didn't feel as though they did anything over the top to make me want to tip. Call me a Karen, but I don't think it was worth what we paid and I wouldn't recommend it. read more

This was our second time to go riding at Grindstone Stables. Both times it was our favorite outing in Ruidoso! The folks that work there are wonderful. Will do it again! read more

Awesome place to go for a horse back ride. Horses well taken care of. I rode horse named gunner and the wife road horse named miss kitty. All staff were very nice and welcomed us. Will come back again while in town read more

Great people, beautiful views! Horses are well suited to riders. Go and ride! Wranglers were helpful!

I had so much fun going on a horseback riding tour here! I came with my friend and her family who have been coming here for trail rides for years. We called to reserve in advance, which requires a credit card to hold your spot. You pay upon arrival, which is either $50 cash or $60 card. The staff were friendly and helpful. The little cowboys and cowgirls work their butts off. I hope they're okay. I'm talking like eight year olds. As a beginner, I felt they did very well in choosing a nice horse for me. It was a really easy one-hour ride with fun ascents and descents near Grindstone Lake. The views were gorgeous. read more

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The ride and staff were amazing. They were accommodating, helpful, and the horses were well trained. We road up a mountain where the scenery was very pretty, the guides kept us busy while we road. They talk about the area and the horses. I rode Duke and My Wife rode Earl. I definitely recommend Grindstone stables. read more

Stopped in to see Benjamin again and guess who is gonna be a daddy?! Last time we were here is was getting married and now a new foal is expected! Congrats !!! We dropped off some baby goodies too! Was great catching up with him Everyone here is so nice and genuine Rick took us for a buggy ride downtown and we enjoyed it. Prices are still right, I bet 20-30 people walked up to join in the fun. Some had reservations some didnt-please make a reservation!!! But goes to show they are doing it right!! Area you ride is beautiful and hilly. There's all reason they have so many 4 star reviews folks, go check them out!!!! read more

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I booked a mountain horseback ride with these folks and absolutely loved it. I will say though, your butt seems to hurt more on a hilly ride more than a flat right. Maybe it was just me. The views were amazing, and I thought the money was well spent. I recommend going in May when the weather is a little milder. Going in the summer would be brutal. read more

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Best horseback riding tour we've done. We road up to the top of the mountain over the dam. Amazing! There were four people keeping an eye on our group. One in front and back with two riding around us. They were super nice, professional and the ride was excellent. read more

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I wish they had updated their site because we went there for nothing. From yelp info their open til 5pm it was about a 1.5 hour drive up from Alamogordo-- kids where excited to go horse back riding and when we got there it says "their close" even in the entrance they should have just posted a sign instead of us driving inward for nothing. Management has to be actively be on top of this for tourists that comes or the least update your website and yelp infos for any changes read more

My 5 year old son (4 then) had a wonderful time. at Grindstone Stables 6 months ago. I highly recommend and would definitely return. read more

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Wonderful horseback ride at Grindstone Stables. All the employees were super nice. I can tell that everyone here loved and took really good care of the horses. The ride was peaceful and the scenery was gorgeous. A must do, if you are visiting Ruidoso. read more

Grindstone Stables - Ruidoso, New Mexico sign - Horseback Riding Near Me - Ruidoso, New Mexico

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Horses seem to be picked by skill level, but regardless not much skill is required. The horses pretty much know where to go and when to walk. They take you on about an hour long scenic hike. Guides were always present and very helpful if any problems arose. Everything about my experience here was was good except for one thing - masks. There's currently a statewide mandated mask order yet only two riders besides myself and my companion were wearing them. No employees wearing masks. In a time when that translates to caring about the health and safety of others, Grindstone Stables excels in making sure you are safe on your horse - but not safe from contracting a life-threatening virus. A bit disappointing to say the least. read more

I was amazed at the friendliness of all the staff. I know they are busy everyday of the year. And yet they still put on a smile and greet you like it's their very first time to do this. They take pride in their work and working with people. I see the care for the horses as well. The scenes were just beautiful!!! I was in aw perfect way to end our trip. And about the masks (from someone who made a review and left an awful comment regarding the masks) who cares!!! It's outside and distant from each other. Have fun you can easily die in a car crash or a heart attack from being paranoid lol. Life is too short to live in fear people!!!!!! read more

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The attitude of the guides not friendly, not personable and generally did not seemed they wanted to be there. Groups are too big it felt more like herd. Scenery is beautiful, horses were typical for a guided ride. read more

It is such a nice ride with beautiful views. The staff is very friendly and Ben made sure to answer all our questions throughout the ride. We will definitely be back next time we are in the area. read more

Grindstone Stables - Horseback Riding Near Me - Ruidoso, New Mexico

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I had such a great time here! My horse Earl was super gentle and relaxed, the perfect horse for anyone to just sit and enjoy the scenery. It was so good to get back in the saddle! They have a great little waiting area with a little donkey and a couple goats just hangin out in their own pen nearby. I can't wait to come again and bring my hubby! read more

Grindstone Stables - Lots of horses ready to go. - Horseback Riding Near Me - Ruidoso, New Mexico

What a lovely family! Grindstone Stables was the perfect way to start the day and our weekend! What a fun, relaxing, beautiful sight-seeing horseback tour of the Ruidoso hills and lake, on friendly horses, with expert horse-handlers and tour guides. This family was extremely friendly, accommodating, and welcoming to visitors, and it was well worth recommending to all who came to see the beautiful outdoors! read more

Beautiful location! Professional guides, well trained and cared for horses. One of the best trail rides we've been on. Highly recommend! read more

Grindstone Stables - Trail - Horseback Riding Near Me - Ruidoso, New Mexico

My grandson loved it. He was out on a smaller horse that was very gentle and was allowed to go unattended by an adult but was supervised by a wrangler on the team. Thank you so much. Hubby has brain cancer and I have bad hips so we couldn't ride. This kept him from being left out! He had a great ride and loved it but did unfortunately have an allergic reaction to the horse (his momma does too so now we know lol) simple Benadryl and he was good as New but staff was concerned enough about him to meet us right away regarding his swollen eyes. Someone offered us a Zyrtec which we gladly accepted. I'd highly recommend grindstone stables and grand son is looking forward to another ride but we WILL premeditated first lol. read more

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5 stars. Was down there the end of May & did a trail ride with my girlfriend, sister and her friend. Had an INCREDIBLE experience. Will definitely be returning come Christmas time! Senor Corona was an excellent guide and really took the time to be personal with the customers & thats what impressed me the most. read more

We went on the guided ride today and had a great time! The price is right, the cowboys were great and the horses lovely. This was my first time riding a horse and I felt comfortable and was able to enjoy the views! read more

Worth it! My 2 year old daughter wanted to ride the sleigh for Christmas, she got her wish! Her smile on her face said it all!! We rented the whole sleigh since we had 14 people. Jimmy and Carlos were the perfect horses! What a great family adventure! read more

Grindstone Stables - Horseback Riding Near Me - Ruidoso, New Mexico

We had a great time! The staff were very friendly and helpful. The price is very reasonable as well. We will most definitely come back and do it again. The horses know what they are doing so no need to be experienced rider. There is always a riding staff near by if you have any questions. They also had goats to pet when waiting for other riders to show up. read more

Grindstone Stables - Horseback Riding Near Me - Ruidoso, New Mexico

The staff on our sleigh ride were so sweet and the sleigh ride was definitely fun. Looking at all the lights set up on the trail got our family in the mood for Christmas. I can't wait to come back and take my girls horseback riding. read more

Grindstone Stables - Horseback Riding Near Me - Ruidoso, New Mexico

Amazing!! I have had a bad experience in the past riding a horse so I was a bit nervous. The staff made me feel very relaxed and comfortable. The horses are very calm and obedient! !! Everyone was very friendly and the guides were incredible! I would definitely recommend Grindstone Stables to anyone who wants to go horseback riding!!! We will be back!! read more

Grindstone Stables - Horseback Riding Near Me - Ruidoso, New Mexico

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The BEST TIME EVER. You will not be disappointed, no matter the weather. It was a bit cold but we had so much fun. The staff there is pleasant and friendly. Stephanie was extremely helpful. Don't for get ...kiss the horse and tip the cowboys or in our case we tipped the horses and kissed the cowboys!!! See you guys next year!! read more

We enjoyed our time so much riding here!!! The guides were so friendly and well informed anf so helpful! They really ask a lot of questions to match you with the best horse possible related to your experience, size, etc. The trail ride is really pretty and fun, the ride is for an hour at a very reasonable price. The horses are healthy and well taken care of. I highly recommend you visit and we will be back again next time we come to Ruidoso, Nm!!! Someone earlier commented you need cash, I want to clarify, they do accept credit/debit cards, cash needed to tip the very friendly wranglers...don't forget to do so, they work very hard and are extremely attentive. The young 13 yr old girl (I forget to ask her name, unfortunately) was so friendly and great at her job, as were the others! read more

Grindstone Stables - Beautiful views at Grindstone Stables! - Horseback Riding Near Me - Ruidoso, New Mexico

I can see why these guys have 5 stars. Super friendly, great and super reasonable pricing and the guides are awesome to ride with! Even though we're more experienced, there was a rider that was initially freaking out whether she got on the horse, and they did a terrific job of making her feel very comfortable and confident and she rode with no issues whatsoever. What's most important to me, and for those reading this review, is that they have personally raised a handful of those horses. What that means is that they know the individual characteristics of each horse and can match them to a rider. This is HUGE because there are other stables that buy older horses, and sometimes you never know how they'll behave with a Green (inexperienced) rider. Reach guide took an opportunity to get to know us, ask questions, so that was great, and at the end, there was someone waiting to see if we enjoyed our ride. THE AREA WHERE WE RODE WAS GORGEOUS! RIGHT ABOVE THE LAKE! I had to say that out loud because the scenery is a big deal when your pleasure riding. It was a beautiful trail. Thank you to the entire crew out there for such an enjoyable ride! read more

We had a fantastic time on our sleigh ride! This may have been my favorite holiday activity for the season. We loved bundling up to look at lights and sing carols. The wranglers were very friendly and entertaining! Highly recommended :) read more

Absolutely amazing The staff was so friendly, the horses were beautiful and the scenic views were breath taking. I can't express just how friendly everyone was. Definitely worth the cost. read more

Grindstone Stables - Horseback Riding Near Me - Ruidoso, New Mexico

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Took my family here and glad I did. It was a little pricy for me but then again I don't know the average rates for going horseback riding. Either way this was a cool experience and something I would like to do again. The guides were nice and knew what they were doing even a young kid probably no older then 13 helping everyone out and being very professional. Will definitely be a repeat customer. read more

Grindstone Stables - Horseback Riding Near Me - Ruidoso, New Mexico

Amazing experience. You ride a horse up and down a mountain side. The staff is friendly and very helpful the entire time. They match you up with a horse of your ability. It's exactly an hour ride and you have to bring cash. read more

Grindstone Stables - On the uphill side of our ride - Horseback Riding Near Me - Ruidoso, New Mexico

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The most fun I've had while in ruidoso! For a first time rider I felt so comfortable. The wranglers were so friendly and made it so enjoyable. They place you with a horse based on personality it was so fun to see how they act on the trail. Slow and steady! Absolutely recommend it for all ages. read more

Grindstone Stables - Wr rode Sarge, Petunia, Kelly, and Custer. - Horseback Riding Near Me - Ruidoso, New Mexico

Excellent experience! Everyone is very friendly and helpful. Really liked that my 4 and 5 year old could ride their own horse. We will definitely be back on our next trip to Ruidoso. read more

I will come back here for more views and horse back riding! I loved it. Staff are friendly and make you feel at home with the scenery and the horses are well ridden and trained. read more

Grindstone Stables - The best views in Ruidoso, NM. The horses are friendly. Staff is excellent with the horses! A beautiful ride through the hills!! - Horseback Riding Near Me - Ruidoso, New Mexico

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This is a must when visiting Ruidoso!!! Our family of 11 visited Ruidoso for the first time this past weekend. Horseback riding at the Grindstone stables was definitely our favorite activity while in town. The horses were great, the trails were beautiful and our guide Jesse was amazing! He was very patient when is came to leading my 5 year old niece on the trail. Jesse was also very entertaining and energetic. We got to see lots of Elk and learned about the ranch, horses and the reservoir. Pictures do no justice for this place! The ride was very smooth, anyone could do it. Our family ages ranged from 5 to 60 years old and from no experience as a rider to experienced. They choose a horse to fit your body and riding experience. I would refer to this place as a little live of heaven on earth. We woul110% go back and visit this place again. read more

We didn't have reservations but they were able to fit us in! Everyone was extremely friendly and we can't wait to go back with more family members! read more

We enjoyed our horse ride so much! All the cowboys and cowgirls were awesome!!! Very nice and enjoyable!! We definitely recommend this place! read more

Family and I enjoyed our first ride with them. Horses looked to be healthy and in good condition. Horses pretty much follow each other and you don't have to do anything. Regardless, guide is with you all the time in case something happens. This place is pretty close to Lake Ella Rose/Grindstone and Inn of the Mountain Gods casino. Absolutely beautiful view on the trail. Wranglers are friendly and helpful. $35+tax+tip or $35+tip if pay by cash for about 1 hour ride. Take hat/sunscreen/glasses etc if going in summer and you are too sensitive with the light. Definitely check weather and call before you go to make sure they are open and can accommodate your party. I gave 4 stars and not 5 because of two reasons: $35 is expensive! specially there are other places in town that are offering pretty much the same experience for $25-$30. Other reason, they do not stop for photos or anything like that during the ride. read more