Explore Indian Canyons, Murray Canyon & Desert Landscapes on Horseback
While there are plenty of ways to experience the natural beauty of Palm Springs, horseback riding offers something different—slower, more immersive, and deeply connected to the landscape. It’s not just about seeing the desert. It’s about moving through it the way early visitors once did, guided by the rhythm of the trail.
Just minutes from downtown, Smoke Tree Stables has been offering horseback riding experiences for generations, giving visitors access to terrain that feels both remote and culturally significant.
A Living Piece of Palm Springs History
Horseback riding isn’t new to Palm Springs—it’s part of the city’s earliest tourism story.
Smoke Tree Ranch was established in the 1930s as a guest ranch, offering visitors a Western-style escape long before Palm Springs became known for pools and modernism. The ranch, originally developed by L. Mac Blankenhorn, became a retreat for families seeking health, fresh air, and open space.
In 1936, Fred and Maziebelle Markham acquired the ranch and expanded it, helping shape one of Palm Springs’ earliest residential communities.
The stables themselves were later separated and operated independently, eventually coming under the ownership of George Rasmussen in 1946—an active figure in early rodeos and a founding member of local mounted groups. By 1950, the Palm Springs Mounted Police held drills at the stables, reinforcing their role in the city’s Western heritage.
From Burro Trains to Modern Trail Rides
Palm Springs’ equestrian history also includes the now-legendary Burro Train—one of the first of its kind in the United States.
Originally operating near South Palm Canyon Drive, the Burro Train offered rides into Tahquitz Canyon, including excursions to the waterfall. Ken Johnson, who would later take over Smoke Tree Stables, expanded the operation and helped cement horseback and burro riding as a signature Palm Springs experience.
Today, the Johnson family continues to operate the stables—creating a rare continuity between Palm Springs’ early tourism era and the present day.
Even figures like Walt Disney were part of this story, owning a home within Smoke Tree Ranch and contributing to the area’s legacy as a retreat for creatives and visionaries.
Meet Stacy Johnson: A Modern Steward of Tradition
“Horses tend to mirror our behaviors,” explains Stacy Johnson, current proprietor of the stables. “So people get to experience their behaviors in real-time… and maybe make some adjustments while working with the horses.”
That connection—between rider, animal, and environment—is part of what makes horseback riding feel aligned with Palm Springs’ long-standing identity as a wellness destination.
“My husband’s family has owned the business since the 1940s,” Johnson says. “We see generation after generation of people who come to visit, then bring their children, and then their grandchildren.”
Credit: Olivier Mastey
Ride Through Indian Canyons & Murray Canyon
The most popular experience is the Murray Canyon Haul Ride, which takes riders deep into the protected lands of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.
Horses are trailered into Indian Canyons, where the ride begins near Andreas Canyon and winds through some of the most scenic terrain in the region.
From there, riders travel over ridgelines and descend into Murray Canyon—a landscape defined by:
- Native palm groves (including California fan palms)
- Seasonal streams and shaded canyon floors
- Dramatic rock formations and desert wildlife
Because much of Murray Canyon is only accessible by foot or horseback, the experience feels secluded—even though you’re just minutes from the city.
Beyond its beauty, the canyon holds deep cultural significance, with evidence of long-standing Indigenous presence, including ancient settlements and rock art.
A Ride for Every Skill Level
One of the biggest draws of horseback riding in Palm Springs is its accessibility.
“In terms of skill level, you don’t need any experience,” says Johnson. “The entire time is spent in such a scenic environment that customers absolutely love it.”
Whether you’re a first-time rider or experienced in the saddle, guided rides ensure a safe and comfortable experience. For beginners, instructors provide basic orientation before heading out, so you can focus on enjoying the ride.
Group Experiences, Events & Weddings
Beyond trail rides, Smoke Tree Stables offers customized experiences for groups, including:
- Corporate outings and team-building events
- Western-themed cookouts
- Private group rides in Indian Canyons
- Weddings and rehearsal dinners in a natural desert setting
The ranch setting—surrounded by mountains and open desert—offers a distinctly Palm Springs backdrop that feels both rustic and elevated.
Tips for Horseback Riding in Palm Springs
A little preparation goes a long way in making your ride more comfortable:
- Dress for the desert: Long pants and closed-toe shoes are essential
- Sun protection matters: Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- Listen to your guide: They’ll help ensure both safety and enjoyment
- Respect the horses: Each has its own personality—follow handling guidance
- Arrive early: Plan to check in at least 30 minutes before your ride
Know before you go:
- The minimum age is typically 7 years old
- Stables may be closed midweek and during the summer months. Check times by calling 760-327-1372.
- Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season
Why Horseback Riding Belongs on Your Palm Springs Itinerary
In a destination known for pools, design, and dining, horseback riding offers something grounding—a return to the landscape that first drew people here.
It connects you to:
- The natural beauty of the desert
- The cultural history of the region
- A slower, more intentional way of experiencing Palm Springs
2500 S. Toledo Ave. | 760-327-1372 | Book
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