FAQs

                                     Rotary Diamond Bar A Ranch & Dragon's Gait Horseshoeing

Frequently Asked Questions


What are your hours of operation?

We operate between the hours of 8:30am to 6pm Wednesday through Sunday.  Operational hours can sometimes vary due to trail lengths, and trail packages may include varied hours. It is important to call, text, or email and schedule with us beforehand. 

 

I want to ride a horse but, what do I wear? 

We recommend everyone to please long wear pants, jeans preferred, that go all the way down or past your ankles. Wear socks!  You may be sitting on roughout leather and it can chafe bare skin. Arizona is full of cactus, cat claw, mesquite and other thorny brush, you want your legs protected. Please wear close toed shoes that cover your entire foot. Boots are preferred as they are safer in the saddle, and will offer more protection from our reptilian wildlife.  We do not allow sandals, crocs, flip flops high heels, hey dudes, house shoes, etc. Hats are an absolute must.  Please wear a hat or have one available prior to your ride. Ball cap or cowboy hat, helmet hats are fine.  Lightweight long sleeve shirts are recommended during the summer months.
 

What should I bring? 

Riders are encouraged to bring their own food and water, 20oz of water. Water is provided and if requested, snacks can be provided. It is strongly recommended that you bring sunscreen and bug spray. Saddle bags are provided to you for water or phones. We do not permit purses, backpacks (except a camelback), fanny packs, or loose bags of any kind (think grocery bags). Speak to us ahead of time regarding camera packs for photography or special supplies for event rides. 


Are you open in the summer? 

Yes! We are usually open year round, however during the summer most rides are restricted to sunrise or sunset rides. There are higher elevation and shaded rides available for more advanced riders. Monsoon season in Arizona is between July and September. It is often unpredictable. Any ride is subject to cancellation due to unsafe weather conditions. 

 

Where do I go? 

Trail locations are all over. Depending on what trail has been scheduled, you may be asked to arrive at the trail head or at a meeting point at the designated time. Directions are given prior to arrival, please contact us at least 24hrs prior if you haven't been given specific directions. Some trail heads require day use fees. These fees are charged per vehicle. We usually recommend you pay your own pass. https://www.recreation.gov/pass

 

Are there any restrooms?

There are no restrooms at our facility that are available for customer use unless you've scheduled lodging. National forest trail heads will sometimes have restrooms on site, but it is not always guaranteed. Please plan ahead of time. Guides do sometimes carry toilet paper. 

 

Do you have helmets? 

We have a very limited number of helmets for use. Please inquire during booking. 

 

Do I need to know how to ride? 

No, you do not. There are several walk only easy trails available for beginners. We ask that you are willing to learn though!

 

What will the ride be like? 

Once you arrive, it will usually be approximately 30 mins before we are all mounted up. You will arrive, sign waivers, and given a safety brief. Then we will match riders to horses. An individual or a short group lesson will be provided on how to handle the horse. 

 

What if I get scared and want to turn back?

You will be given instruction per your guide on the actions to take to end a ride safely. Some trails offer no quick and easy return, you may potentially be asked to complete the ride as the safest option. We always recommend you schedule a lesson a few hours or at least a day before a long ride if you are unsure of yourself. 

 

Do I pay for the full ride if I can't make the entire ride?

Yes. Once you are on the horse, you are responsible for the cost of the ride you reserved. All reservation deposits are nonrefundable. 

 

I have a child under 15 that wants to ride, can they? 

Under our policy no minor under 15 is allowed on our outside 2hr rides with the exception of specific trail packages or a lesson package. We offer lessons, pony rides, and additional horse activities for younger adults and children to get the horse experience. You can call for additional information or details on specific trails, prerequisites, or activities that younger children would be allowed to attend. 

 

Do you offer horses for weddings or events? 

Actually yes! We can offer horses for wedding services, birthdays, photography, and even more special occasions. This isn't always a heavily requested service, so you have to email us the details to get started and a quoted. 

 

Can I take photos on the ride? 

Absolutely! This is your time, your experience, please feel free to take photos and videos. If you want to bring a camera that may necessitate it's own bag, please let us know so we are able to plan for it's transport. For professional photos, please bring your own photographer. 

 

Can I just use the horses for photos? 

Yes! If you want to plan a photography session only, contact us for pricing and scheduling. You are still required to hire your own photographer. 

 

Do you do rides in or around Tombstone?

We can! There are several trails we ride that are fairly close to Tombstone! Just ask! We can do short rides in Tombstone, but you will be required to take a short lesson at least one day in advance and schedule with us at least one month in advance. Tombstone has city ordinances specified for equines, it is important that you read them and be aware of them before riding any equine within city limits.  https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/tombstoneaz/latest/tombstone_az/0-0-0-2861 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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