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Colorado Plateau - San Rafael Swell Rides
Utah
USA
The San Rafael Swell is 28,000 square miles of uninhabited wilderness -- nearly three times the size of Rhode Island without a single human resident! The Swell is a gigantic bubble in the earth's crust which has eroded into a maze of beautiful deep, multi-hued canyons punctured by the mesas, buttes and pinnacles typical of the world famous Canyonlands geography. Riders will explore intricate trails established by native Americans, herdsmen and outlaws during their day, then hear stories about these trailblazers while relaxing around the camp fire at night..
Always a high point of the trips are views of mustangs or bighorn sheep which occur, with rare exception, daily. From a deluxe base camp riders will visit Red Canyon, The Penitentiary, The Chute, Muddy River Gorge, Chimney Canyon Gorge, Head of Sinbad, Courthouse Butte, Family Butte, Golden Gate, Twin Priests, Devil's Monument, Devil's Racetrack, Joe and his Dog, Sid's Mountain, Swasey Arch, Dutchman Arch, Saddle Horse Canyon, Cold Canyon, The Snake Dance pictographs, South Fork pictographs, The Blue Man pictographs, and more. As you can see there is never a shortage of amazing scenery to discover and intrigue our many adventurous riders!
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Camping Ride with vehicle support
Suitable for riders over 210 lbs
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Meeting:
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Torrey at 8 PM in the common area of your lodge
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Airport:
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Moab, UT or Las Vegas, NV
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Transfer:
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Moab, Utah - flight
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
Max
10 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2013
Rates include:
4 nights accomodations (first night at hotel, rest tent camping), all meals (except at hotel), 4 riding days, all taxes, free t-shirt.
| A | 2013 | 5 day Camping ride, AP | 5d / 4n | $1490 |
| Single supplement for first night hotel and single tent | $65 |
Transfer and Other Options:
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2013
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Best to rent a car in Las Vegas or Salt Lake and drive in
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$0
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2013
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Transfer from Moab with scenic flight, rate per person (requires minimum of 4)
- to be paid locally
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$370
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Rates do not include:
Guide gratuities, dinner and breakfast at hotel, alcoholic drinks, airport transfers (recommend rental car)
Sample Itinerary:
Note: This is a sample itinerary for two of several camps we may use. Each camp is unique and often offers more trails to explore than time will permit.
Day 1 Arrive into the scenic town of Torrey, Utah and check into your specific lodging - either the Boulderview Inn or the Chuckwagon Inn. Participants will meet at 8:00pm in the common area of your lodge/inn/hotel. We will have an orientation and final packing session with your trip leader and the trip's interpretative specialist at this time. Meeting and lodging locations will be specified at least 4 weeks prior to arrival.
Day 2 After breakfast, you'll travel a short distance down the road to our headquarters. You will leave your car here. Transfers will be provided as needed if you did not drive in. We'll pack your gear in the camp 4X4, meet the remainder of the crew and your horse, then depart at around 9:00am for our base camp.
Day 3 Daylight at the Muddy Creek camp brings the prospect of visiting the magnificent Chute Gorge and Chimney Canyon. You should note that you will always arrive back at camp with plenty of daylight and time to clean up and enjoy tasty hors d'oeuvres before dinner.
Day 4 Mustangs are numerous along the stream where they come for water from their pastures in the deep side canyons. Binoculars are a must!!
Day 5 Departure day. After packing personal gear and breaking camp, riders return through the multi-hued Navajo sandstone domes littered to exchange your saddle for the 4x4 drive back to headquarters. You arrive Torrey in the late afternoon.
**Subject to changes
April 21-25 & April 28-May 2
San Rafael Swell & Hondoo Country
-- Wild Horses at Muddy River Gorge & Red Canyon
May 4-9
San Rafael Swell & Sid's Mountain Wilderness
-- Explore Slickrock Canyons populated with Bighorn Sheep
May 12-16
Capitol Reef National Park
-- Springtime in the slickrock country.
May 20-24
Escalante Canyons National Monument
-- Spring Wildflowers in Slickrock Canyons
May 29-June 2 & June 6-10
Capitol Reef National Park
-- Pleasant Creek Rockart or Cathedral Valley
June 14-18 & June 22-26
Escalante Canyons National Monument
-- Headwaters of Escalante River with Monument & Arizona views
July 2-6
Capitol Reef National Park
-- Along America's "Great Western Trail"
July 11-15 & July 21-25 & Aug. 1-5
High Plateaus of Boulder, Henry or 1000Lakes Mtns.
-- Alpine Lakes, Wildlife & Views of the Canyonlands, Northern Arizona & 4 Corners
Aug. 10-14
High Plateaus - Escalante National Monument
-- Headwaters of Escalante High altitude Arizona views
Aug. 19-23
High Plateaus - Capitol Reef
-- Explore the breaks of Waterpocket Fold at altitude
Aug 27-Aug 31 & Sept. 3-7
San Rafael Swell Wilderness
-- Rockart & Bighorn Sheep in the Slickrock
Sept. 11-15
Capitol Reef National Park
Experience the breaks above Capitol Reef
Sept. 19-23
Escalante Canyons National Monument
-- Fall Foliage & Redrock Canyons in the Escalante drainage
Sept. 26-Sept. 30 & Oct. 3-7
High Plateaus of 1000 Lakes or Boulder Mtns.
-- Fall Foliage and Vistas over 100 miles
Oct. 12-16 & Oct. 21-25
San Rafael Swell Wilderness
-- Wild Horses & FALL FOLIAGE in Redrock Country
RIDES FEATURING ROCK ART:
May 29-June 2
Capitol Reef National Park
-- Petroglyphs and Pictographs on Pleasant Creek Gorge
Aug 27-Aug 31
San Rafael Swell Wilderness
-- Petroglyphs and Pictographs in Bighorn Sheep country
RIDES FEATURING WILDLIFE:
April 21-25 & April 28-May 2 & May 4-8
San Rafael Swell Wilderness
-- Wild Horses or Bighorn Sheep at Muddy River Gorge or Sid's Mountain Wilderness
June 22-26
High Plateaus of Wasatch or Boulder
-- Wildflowers with Elk & Birds-of-prey
July 21-25
High Plateaus/Henry Mountains
-- Buffalo with Views of Canyonlands & 4-Corners area
Sept. 3-7
San Rafael Swell Wilderness
-- Bighorn Sheep in Slickrock & Slot Canyons
Oct. 12-16 & Oct. 21-25
San Rafael Swell Wilderness
-- Wild Horses & FALL FOLIAGE in a Maze of Redrock Canyons
Meeting:
Torrey at 8 PM in the common area of your lodge
Airport:
Moab, UT or Las Vegas, NV
Transfer:
Moab, Utah - flight
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Tack:
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Western
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Horses:
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Quarter and Quarter cross
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Pace:
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5-6 hrs per day; 6 - 12 miles
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
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Level:
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(3
to
3
out of 5) Low Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
8
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Weight:
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Max
300
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
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Max
10 riders
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Suitability:
While no previous riding experience is required, participants
should be in good health and physical condition. And although the
minimum age of eight years is required, the important point you should
understand is that we do not want to put any participant in a situation
which they are physically or emotionally unable to handle. An
appreciation of the outdoors is the only prerequisite for joining a
trip.
You'll ride at a pace that is comfortable for the group, sometimes
splitting into two groups, one faster for the hearty rider, and one
well-paced but leisurely for those who wish to take time relishing the
beauty and wonder of the sights. All riders will then regroup and make a
lunch stop together. Following the afternoon ride you will return to
camp with plenty of time to clean up and relax before dinner.
Guests/Hikers
It should be noted that although these trips are
designed to accommodate hikers as well as riders, if you plan to combine
both activities, let us know so we may plan for appropriate personnel
and horses before the last moment.
If you want to accompany someone on a trail ride but you are not a
rider, or you simply want to spend time camping and relaxing in a
wilderness setting, or you want to hike this spectacular landscape, then
you're welcome to join a trail ride. Although the trips are designed
for riders, it is not uncommon for participants to not ride one or more
days. Daily guided hikes will venture forth as arranged. Non-riders may
travel with the cook and campjack to and from the base camp, however we
should know in advance.
Horses:
Our remuda consists of ranch raised Quarter Horses with a few
Thoroughbreds, Arabians and Mustangs. Most of the horses we've bred and raised
ourselves.
Saddle Time: Usually about 6
hours; more or less time if desired or circumstances require. On camping
trailrides you'll ride to and from basecamp on first and last day of
riding, otherwise, ride or rest as you please. Trail conditions range
from good to rugged, over rough and rocky terrain. Distances covered
between camps usually range from 6 to 12 miles. We sometimes divide the
group and approach camp from different trails. Stops at scenic features
and Indian rock art panels are common.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Valid passport required by all nationals referred to in the chart ; validity varies - for most countries the passport must be valid for at least six months from the date on which the holder enters the. more
Utah's portion of the Colorado Plateau region is a semi-arid tableland or steppe ranging in elevation between 3,800 ft. and 11,500 ft. with vegetation classified as upper-Sonoran to Alpine. This landscape is famous for it's dynamic elevation changes with hundreds, even thousands, of feet change literally in one step.
The key word in this description, as far as weather is concerned, is semi-arid. It is generally dry with most precipitation falling as snow in the winter and occasional thunder storms during the summer. Higher elevations are cooler and receive more moisture than lower environs. Our trips explore the lower, slickrock and pinyon-juniper forested areas on spring and fall trailrides. In the heat of the summer, ponderosa-pine or aspen-spruce forests form the backdrop for experiencing the canyonlands. Trip temperatures rarely exceed 90 degrees daytime or 40 degrees at night. With warm days and cool nights, it is best to layer your clothing to maintain comfort and you should always pack rain gear just in case.
GENERAL CLIMATIC FEATURES
Essentially, Utah's climate is determined by its distance from the equator; its elevation above sea level; the location of the State with respect to the average storm paths over the Intermountain Region; and its distance from the principal moisture sources of the area, namely, the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Also, the mountain ranges over the western United States, particularly the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Ranges and the Rocky Mountains, have a marked influence on the climate of the State. Pacific storms, before reaching Utah, must first cross the Sierras or Cascades. As the moist air is forced to rise over these high mountains, a large portion of the original moisture falls as precipitation. Thus, the prevailing westerly air currents reaching Utah are comparatively dry, resulting in light precipitation over most of the State.
TEMPERATURE
There are definite variations in temperature with altitude and with latitude. Naturally, the mountains and the elevated valleys have the cooler climates, with the lower areas of the State having the higher temperatures. There is about a 3° F decrease in mean annual temperature for each 1,000-foot increase in altitude, and approximately 1.5 to 2° F decrease in average yearly temperature for each one degree increase in latitude. Thus, weather stations in the southern counties generally have average annual temperatures 6 to 8 degrees higher than those at similar altitudes over the northern counties.
PRECIPITATION
Precipitation varies greatly, from an average of less than five inches annually over the Great Salt Lake Desert (west of Great Salt Lake), to more than 40 inches in some parts of the Wasatch Mountains. The average annual precipitation in the leading agricultural areas is between 10 to 15 inches, necessitating irrigation for the economic production of most crops. However, the mountains, where winter snows form the chief reservoirs of moisture, are conveniently adjacent to practically all farming areas, and there is usually sufficient water for most land under irrigation. The areas of the State below an elevation of 4,000 feet, all in the southern part, generally receive less than 10 inches of moisture annually.
A parent must sign a waiver if a rider under 18 chooses not to wear a helmet.
We recommend that you:
1) pack as light as possible,
2) pack practically and with a utilitarian eye, and,
3) pack so you may layer clothing for warmth.
We provide each guest with water-proof gear bags for personal items.
Participants on our trail rides will be assisted with final packing during the pre-trip orientation, the evening prior to departure.
Suggested Items to bring:
- wide, brimmed hat with a string
- heeled, smooth soled, riding boots
- riding gloves
- long underwear, underwear and socks
- long sleeved shirts and pants
- sweater, medium and heavy weight jackets
- bandanas
- rubber overshoes (optional - for spring & fall mud)
- camp shoes (sneakers or light hiking boots)
- quality rain coat and pants (we don't often use them but always good to have them.)
- camera and plenty of film (padded travel case is recommended)
- flashlight, extra batteries, dark glasses and plenty of sun screen
- beer and liquor if you wish (not provided by the operator!)
- personal articles
- riding helmet (this is an optional item except for riders under 18 years of age. Stipulations of our insurance require that riders should be encouraged to wear helmets)
- chaps and swim wear (optional)
- cash for staff / guide gratuities
- stuff sacks or pillow cases (we recommend these for dirty laundry or pillow)
- insect repellent (Avon's Skin-So-Soft is the only thing that repels the small gnats we sometimes encounter - a rare occurrence)
What the Outfitter provides:
- sleeping bag
- sleeping pad or cot
- canvas tent
- 2 quart canteen
- water-proof gear bags
- saddle bags or day pack
- helmets - but only some sizes are available. If you want to wear a helmet we recommend to bring your own.
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
..view other reports for different trips
Hotel/Inn
Accommodation for the first night will be either the Boulderview Inn or the Chuckwagon Inn. The Boulderview Inn is located on highway 24 at the west end of Torrey. The Chuckwagon Inn is located downtown.
Camps
All trail rides utilize a base camp arrangement with daily forays to different points of interest. This allows us to spend less time packing and unpacking, and more time riding and seeing the country. Campsites are located in primitive, backcountry areas which we seldom use more than once or twice each season. Low- impact camping techniques are practiced. Tents provide our home away from home. Cook tent, dining tent and shower tent round out the facilities. Chairs are provided.
All trips feature deluxe provisions and complete outfitting. We strive to provide the highest level of comfort while practicing low impact, but not primitive camping. Don't misunderstand us - we are not a white glove, tuck you into bed outfit. However, we do provide camp chairs, rustic shower, sleeping cot or 6' pad, tent, fresh food, iced drinks, etc., to make the trip more pleasant and restful. The rides explore many of the physiographic sections or landforms located in the Colorado Plateau west of the Colorado River and the Green River.
Trail conditions range from good to rugged, over rough and rocky terrain. Distance covered between camps usually range from 6 to 12 miles (3 to 6 hours in the saddle) although longer or shorter days do occur. We sometimes divide the group and approach camp from different trails, with one group going the rugged or longer route and the other taking the gentler way. Side rides from camp are customary on short days. Stops at scenic features and Indian rock art panels are common. Geology and history are emphasized. You may use your personal horse.
Meals are included from Lunch on Day 2 to Lunch on Day 6.
CAMPING Trail Rides Include:
*All taxes and land-use fees--nearly 14%.
*All ground transportation from Torrey, UT & return.
*First night motel lodging in Torrey.
*Four nights at a deluxe basecamp deep in the backcountry.
*All meals from lunch on day two through lunch on day six, including fresh produce, hot and iced drinks.
*Canvas tents for cooking, dining, showering and sleeping (single, double or family occupancy).
*Sleeping bag, cot and foam pad.
*Camp chairs, coolers and other camp amenities.
*Waterproof gear bags, water bottles, saddle bags and tack.
*Seasoned mountain horses.
*Guides/wranglers, cook, camp-jack and interpretative specialist.
Additional expenses:
Airfare, rental car, personal items and alcoholic beverages. You should
note that trip prices have been discounted to reflect the added expense
for car rental incurred in reaching Torrey. In the final analysis, the
cost for this quality trip make it one of the best buys in the adventure
travel market. Also, for those participants who appreciate a cold beer
after an eventful day or relaxing around the campfire with a cocktail,
enjoy, but bring spirits in unbreakable containers if possible.
This trip includes
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
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Tack:
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Western
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Horses:
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Quarter and Quarter cross
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Pace:
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5-6 hrs per day; 6 - 12 miles
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
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|
Level:
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(3
to
3
out of 5) Low Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
8
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Weight:
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Max
300
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
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Max
10 riders
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Suitability:
While no previous riding experience is required, participants
should be in good health and physical condition. And although the
minimum age of eight years is required, the important point you should
understand is that we do not want to put any participant in a situation
which they are physically or emotionally unable to handle. An
appreciation of the outdoors is the only prerequisite for joining a
trip.
You'll ride at a pace that is comfortable for the group, sometimes
splitting into two groups, one faster for the hearty rider, and one
well-paced but leisurely for those who wish to take time relishing the
beauty and wonder of the sights. All riders will then regroup and make a
lunch stop together. Following the afternoon ride you will return to
camp with plenty of time to clean up and relax before dinner.
Guests/Hikers
It should be noted that although these trips are
designed to accommodate hikers as well as riders, if you plan to combine
both activities, let us know so we may plan for appropriate personnel
and horses before the last moment.
If you want to accompany someone on a trail ride but you are not a
rider, or you simply want to spend time camping and relaxing in a
wilderness setting, or you want to hike this spectacular landscape, then
you're welcome to join a trail ride. Although the trips are designed
for riders, it is not uncommon for participants to not ride one or more
days. Daily guided hikes will venture forth as arranged. Non-riders may
travel with the cook and campjack to and from the base camp, however we
should know in advance.
Horses:
Our remuda consists of ranch raised Quarter Horses with a few
Thoroughbreds, Arabians and Mustangs. Most of the horses we've bred and raised
ourselves.
Saddle Time: Usually about 6
hours; more or less time if desired or circumstances require. On camping
trailrides you'll ride to and from basecamp on first and last day of
riding, otherwise, ride or rest as you please. Trail conditions range
from good to rugged, over rough and rocky terrain. Distances covered
between camps usually range from 6 to 12 miles. We sometimes divide the
group and approach camp from different trails. Stops at scenic features
and Indian rock art panels are common.
Passports
Valid passport required by all nationals referred to in the chart ; validity varies - for most countries the passport must be valid for at least six months from the date on which the holder enters the USA. If not, the holder will be admitted until the expiration date on the passport; check with the embassy (see Contact Addresses).
Passport Note
(a) For nationals included in the Visa Waiver Program (see below), passports must be valid for at least 90 days from date of entry.
(b) All travellers entering the USA under the Visa Waiver Program require individual machine-readable passports. Children included on a parent's passport also now require their own machine-readable passport. Travellers not in possession of machine-readable passports will require a valid USA entry visa.
(c) Passports issued on or after 26 October 2005 will need to have a biometric identifier in order for the holder to travel visa free under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Machine-readable passports issued between 26 October 2005 and 25 October 2006 require a digital photograph printed on the data page or an integrated chip with information from the data page. Machine-readable passports issued on or after 26 October 2006 will require an integrated chip with information from the data page (e-passport).
The US has announced new measures that require all travellers to provide details online 72 hours prior to travel.
ESTA: The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) came into force on 12 January 2009. It is a fully automated, electronic system for screening passengers before they begin travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. ESTA applications must be submitted at least 72 hours before travel to the USA. Some websites may charge you for the service but you can apply online for free at www.dhs.gov. The granting of an ESTA does not guarantee entry to the USA.
New Requirements for Travellers: As of 23 January 2007 all persons, including US citizens, travelling by air between the USA and Canada, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Bermuda are required to present a valid passport, or other approved document, when entering or re-entering the USA. Similar requirements for those travelling by land or sea will be introduced on 1 June 2009.
For further details about the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, visit the website of the US Department of State: (website: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html).
Visas
Not required by nationals referred to in the chart above for stays of up to 90 days except:
1. nationals of Bulgaria, Cyprus, Greece, Hungary, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Romania and Slovak Republic, who do require a visa.
Visa Note
(a) Landed Immigrants of Canada and British residents of Bermuda who are citizens of, and have valid passports from, Commonwealth countries or Ireland are not eligible to enter the USA without a visa. (b) All passengers using US airports for transit purposes are required to obtain a transit visa. This does not affect qualified travellers travelling visa free under the Visa Waiver Program. (d) To qualify for visa-free travel under the Visa Waiver Program, nationals must travel on a valid passport, for holiday, transit or business purposes only and for a stay not exceeding 90 days. (e) Passengers must have the full address and ZIP code of where they are staying in the USA to be able to fully complete the I-94W form. Note: Airlines are also required to collect passenger details, including the address of their first night's accommodation in the USA, before they board the aircraft. (f) 2. Holders of UK passports with the endorsement British Subject, British Dependent Territories Citizen, British Protected Person, British Overseas Citizen or British National (Overseas) Citizen do not qualify for the Visa Waiver Program. A passport which states holder has right of abode or indefinite leave to remain in the UK does not qualify for visa free travel. (g) A visa does not expire with the expiry of the holder’s passport. An unexpired, endorsed visa in an expired passport may be presented for entry into the USA, as long as the visa itself has not been cancelled, is undamaged, is less than 10 years old and is presented with a valid non-expired passport, provided that both passports are for the same nationality. (h) Nationals of countries not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
Types of Visa and Cost
Tourist, Business, Transit and Student: US$131.
Validity
Visas may be used for travel to the USA until the date it expires. Some visas are valid for multiple entries. The length of stay in the USA is determined by US immigration officials at the time of entry but is generally six months; there is, however, no set time.
Applications to:
Embassy or consulate (see Contact Addresses).
Working Days Required
Usually five after interview. Some cases may take up to 12 weeks – check with embassy/consulate.
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
N/A |
| Other EU |
Yes |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
No/2 |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
N/A |
| Other EU |
1 |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
N/A |
| Other EU |
Yes |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Colorado Plateau - San Rafael Swell Rides
Tour Code:
RTUT04
5 days /
4 nights
~$1,490.00
Dates :
April to October
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :
Riding Level Explained | A | Beginner
 | Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter. | | B | Novice
 | Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of
applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting
trots, and short canters. | | C | Intermediate
 | Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces
(including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly. |
| D | Strong Intermediate
 | Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. | | E | Advanced
 | All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country. |
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