Horseback Riding in Paso Robles Wine Country
AS FEATURED ON THE TODAY SHOW
AS FEATURED ON THE TODAY SHOW
Central Coast Trailrides offers premier daily horseback riding experiences in Paso Robles wine country, set on the historic Santa Margarita Ranch. Each ride is a chance to explore the backyard of the Central Coast and soak in the beauty of wine country.
Many guests say their ride with Central Coast Trailrides is the highlight of their Paso Robles visit. Rides are offered year-round by appointment, with custom horseback experiences at local vineyards, private ranches, vacation properties, and through a partnership with the Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo. Every ride is a chance to see the Central Coast from a new perspective.
Call or text (805) 610-1306 to start planning your adventure.
Central Coast Trailrides started in 2015, born from Crystal and Brian Hallett’s lifelong love for horses and the Central Coast. Raised right here, the Hallett family is proud to share deep roots in Paso Robles and strong ties with local ranches, vineyards, and the Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo. Every day, Mattix and Taylen pitch in alongside Crystal and Brian, with Taylen now stepping up as a wrangler on the trail.
Central Coast Trailrides is proud to offer a premier horseback riding experience, specializing in custom rides at some of the most scenic vineyards and ranches on the Central Coast. Most rides take place on the historic 14,000-acre Santa Margarita Ranch, with each adventure including a complimentary wine tasting at Ancient Peaks Winery. Rides start from $130 per person.
Guided Horseback Riding in Paso Robles. Riders of All Levels, Every Day of the Year.
Trail Rides on the Santa Margarita Ranch
Santa Margarita Ranch is a true hidden gem, off the beaten path and closed to the public. This working cattle ranch is one of California’s most historic private properties. Rides meander through open cattle country, cross seasonal creeks, and pass beneath grand oak trees. Along the way, guests might spot wildflowers, deer, and bald eagles, and take in vineyard views at the Ancient Peaks Winery’s quarry vineyard.
1 Hour — SMR Oak Studded and Creekside Ride
Enjoy sweeping views, wildlife sightings, and lush creek settings on this gentle ride through the ranch. The one-hour experience is perfect for first-timers and seasoned riders alike. Spend time with the horses and wranglers, soaking in the fresh air and beauty of the Central Coast.
$130 per person
1.5 Hour — SMR Tree Canopy and Vineyard View Ride
The most popular ride, offering a dynamic taste of everything the ranch has to offer. Ride beneath grand oak trees, through lush greenery and wide open spaces, cross seasonal creeks, and take in sweeping vineyard views. Suitable for all riding levels.
$160 per person
2 Hour — SMR Sunset Vineyard and Ridgeline Ride
Available only during golden hour in the warmer months, this two-hour adventure takes riders through the stunning quarry vineyard and up to panoramic ridgeline views across Santa Margarita Ranch. Expect varied terrain, possible wildlife sightings, and unforgettable scenery.
$200 per person
Ride and Sip with CCT and Ancient Peaks
Complimentary with any booked ride
Every ride includes a complimentary tasting of five wines at Ancient Peaks Winery, just a short drive from the ranch. Ancient Peaks is owned and operated by Santa Margarita Ranch. Reserve the tasting in advance to complete the Central Coast experience
Custom Horseback Experiences
Central Coast Trailrides specializes in custom horseback experiences and can bring horses and wranglers to any group anywhere in Paso Robles or SLO CAL. Private rides are available for all kinds of occasions, including:
Bachelorette party rides. Groups of 8 to 20+, wine tasting and photo opportunities included.
Corporate team building. Private group rides for retreats and team building events, up to 50 riders, with catering available.
Family rides. Ages 5 and up with buckaroo saddles, helmets, and horses matched to riders up to 300 lb.
Private and custom rides. Horses and wranglers trailered to vacation rental properties, private ranches, real estate scouting, and vineyard owner rides throughout SLO CAL.
Proposal rides. Fully staged proposals with dedicated photo opportunities built into the ride.
Birthday and celebration rides. Flexible timing with special add-ons available for any occasion.
Holiday rides. Seasonal events including Christmas at the Ranch.
Hearst Ranch rides. Guided access to the historic 83,000-acre coastal ranch.
35+ Horses. Every Rider Matched by Brian.
Every horse in the Central Coast Trailrides herd is hand-picked and cared for by the Hallett family, then brought to guests tacked up and ready to ride. Each horse is owned by the family and has a special role. Randy the Appaloosa is the reliable, attention-loving trail veteran. Texas is the go-to for kiddos. Tonka is athletic and brave for experienced riders. Mustang Mammoth is the gentle giant for heavier guests. Ginger is Brian’s personal wrangler horse.
Guests of all riding abilities are welcome, from young children age 5 to older adults and heavier riders up to 300 pounds. Experienced equestrians are matched with the right horse and group to keep the ride exciting and memorable. Every ride is safe yet relaxed, never nose-to-tail like many other trail companies.
From Our Clients
-
![]()
"Communication was top-notch and the final outcome was even better than we imagined."
-
![]()
“A professional team that delivers on their promises.”
-
![]()
“Their attention to detail and commitment to quality truly stood out.”
-
![]()
“Every detail was thoughtfully executed. We're thrilled with the outcome.”
Central Coast Trailrides is a family-owned horseback riding company serving Paso Robles Wine Country since 2015. Every guest is welcomed like family and treated to a genuine, unhurried ranch experience with horses that are truly cared for.
Why Choose Central Coast Trailrides
★
Award-Winning Recognition. Featured on NBC’s The Today Show as one of the best summer getaways in the country. Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice award winner. 400+ five-star reviews across Google and Yelp at a perfect 5.0 rating.
★
Family-Owned Since 2015. Crystal, Brian, Mattix, and Taylen Hallett are hands-on in every part of the experience. The Hallett crew is the heart and backbone of the business, with deep roots in Paso Robles.
★
Exclusive Private Access. Rides take place on the historic 14,000-acre Santa Margarita Ranch, a property closed to the public. No crowds, just horses, wranglers, cattle, wildlife, and open ranchland to explore.
★
Complimentary Wine Tasting. Every ride includes a complimentary tasting of five wines at Ancient Peaks Winery, just minutes from the ranch and owned by Santa Margarita Ranch.
WHAT SETS US APART
★
Not Nose-to-Tail. Every ride is safe yet relaxed, never single-file like many other trail companies. Experienced riders are matched with athletic horses, and pace can be picked up at select locations depending on ability and wrangler discretion.
★
Mobile Operation. Horses and wranglers can be trailered to vacation rentals, private ranches, and venues throughout SLO CAL. Custom packages are available for corporate events, family reunions, proposals, and celebrations of any size.
★
Open 365 Days a Year. Trail rides are available every day, year-round, from 8 AM to 8 PM by appointment. Availability depends on the horses and the weather.
Book Horseback Riding in Paso Robles Directly with Brian
To reserve a ride, call or text (805) 610-1306. Bookings are available every day, with ride times changing based on horse availability and the season. Same-day bookings are sometimes possible, but not always guaranteed. The ride is confirmed once a confirmation notice and deposit request is received from Central Coast Trailrides.
When texting to inquire, please include the group name, requested date, number of adults and kids, plus the age, weight, and riding experience for each guest. The more details shared, the easier it is to match every rider with the perfect horse. For more info on what to wear, weight accommodations, cancellation policy, and what to expect, check out the FAQ page.
Horseback Riding Across the Central Coast
Central Coast Trailrides welcomes riders from all over Paso Robles Wine Country and San Luis Obispo County. Explore ride options near Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo, Santa Margarita, Morro Bay, and throughout the Central Coast.