HIKING

Hiking adds another dimension to your Arizona dude ranch vacation experience at Elkhorn Ranch. Scenic mountain and desert landscape, as well as the ranch grounds, provide plenty of open space for relaxed walks or vigorous hikes. Explore on your own or with the ranch hiking guide.

Hiking with the ranch guide will help you explore trails and sights you might not find on your own!

Hiking with the ranch guide will help you explore trails and sights you might not find on your own!

Hiking with the ranch guide will help you explore trails and sights you might not find on your own!

Horseback guides lead from the front of the group, but Elkhorn’s hiking guide pays the most attention to those at the tail end of the group who might need some extra help or encouragement. The ranch guide carries first aid supplies, a radio, and extra water for the group. Hikes are arranged daily to suit guests’ interest and fitness level.

You’ll want to have a small day pack and water bottle and many people enjoy hiking poles – you can find these items in the ranch store or lending closet.

You’ll want to have a small day pack and water bottle and many people enjoy hiking poles – you can find these items in the ranch store or lending closet.

The most important equipment to bring with you for hiking is comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots.

The most important equipment to bring with you for hiking is comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots.

The most important equipment to bring with you for hiking is comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots.

It doesn’t take long to clock 10,000 steps hiking at Elkhorn ~ enjoy guilt free cookie eating!

It doesn’t take long to clock 10,000 steps hiking at Elkhorn ~ enjoy guilt free cookie eating!

A 70 year old guest, who’s been coming to Elkhorn for over 25 years to ride and rendezvous with friends, found herself wary of riding due to a back injury. She doesn’t consider herself a hiker, but gave it a try and to her delight said, “I feel like I’ve been riding!” She even lured her husband off a horse to hike with her!

Views are magnificent and spring flowers can be glorious

Bring your camera and binoculars — the wintering birds of southern Arizona are numerous and colorful

Bring your camera and binoculars — the wintering birds of southern Arizona are numerous and colorful