Horseback riding is permitted in many areas of the park -- it's especially popular in the Kolob Canyons section -- although it is prohibited on some of the more popular hiking trails. Backcountry permits are required for overnight trips into the backcountry. For complete details on overnight horseback riding trips, contact the visitor centers or park offices and ask for a copy of the free handout "Pack Animal Use." People bring their own horses for the trips.
Guided rides in the park are available March through October from Canyon Trail Rides, P.O. Box 128, Tropic, UT 84776 (tel. 435/679-8665; www.canyonrides.com), with ticket sales and information near Zion Lodge. A 1-hour ride along the Virgin River costs $30 and a half-day ride on the Sand Beach Trail costs $55. Riders must weigh no more than 220 pounds, and children must be at least 7 years old for the 1-hour ride and 10 years old for the half-day ride. Reservations are advised.
