Catalina Island has reintroduced guided horseback trail rides for visitors, drawing on the island’s history of horseback riding that dates back to the 1930s. The new operation, Catalina Horseback Adventures, offers rides ranging from 45-90 minutes through hills, valleys, and clifftops with ocean views. The stables are located 12 miles outside of Avalon and currently have 12 horses available for rides.
The rides are open to riders of all levels, ages 9 and up, with a weight limit of 240 pounds. Prices for group rides start at $125-$175 for 45 minutes and may vary for private rides. The new stables are located in the same area as the previous stables that closed in 2008, but with a different layout that allows riders to cross the Catalina Island Golf Course during their trail rides.
The idea to bring back public trail rides came from Jeff Skelton, the owner of Catalina Horseback Adventures, who was inspired during rides with a group called Los Caballeros. The operation is a separate business from the Catalina Island Co., which owns most of the island’s developable land. The return of guided horseback rides adds a new activity for visitors to enjoy on Catalina Island.
