Dunton Horse Riding

The hour ride, follows the Fall-Winter Trail. A meandering climb out of Dunton’s property and on the San Juan National Forest. Wildflowers abound in traversing meadows between creeks and old trees. Magnificent views of the surrounding peaks add to the grandeur.

Or spend two and a half hours in the saddle. Leave Dunton’s property by heading upstream and across the river. Climb 1000 vertical feet through wildflower filled meadows and calming Aspen groves, crossing into the southern end of the Lizard Head Wilderness Area. Take a breather and a drink at the apex of the ride with amazing views of the Dolores Peaks that provide the perfect photographic backdrop. The return trip follows game and cattle trails that face south towards the ridges and peaks behind Dunton, giving a theatrical perspective of the town’s location.

A four to five hour adventure complete with a delicious picnic lunch will take you up into the Wilderness Area, climb through cool conifer forests into a busy elk habitat to picnic at an elevation of almost 11,000 feet. The lunch-stop meadow provides a 360 degree view of multiple peaks including the “fourteeners” El Diente, Wilson Peak and Mount Wilson. Ride by waterfalls and wildlife while enjoying dining in a pristine high-country meadow.