Frequently Asked Questions

Here, we’ve provided answers to some questions we get asked frequently. If you have a question or concern that isn’t addressed here, please don’t hesitate to call us at 707-964-7669. We’ll be glad to talk with you!

Q: I’m a beginner. Can I go on your trail rides?

A: We love first-time riders and beginners, and have horses perfect for inexperienced riders. Safety is always our first priority, so you will watch a short instructional video, get lots of help mounting and dismounting your horse, and interact with your guide on the trail. Our 1 hour beach rides are a wonderful introduction to riding, whether you go on a group ride or choose a private ride so that you have your guide to yourself.

Q: What should I wear?

A: Closed shoes and long pants are necessities. We also recommend that you dress in layers so that you’ll be prepared for a chilly Pacific breeze or a cool shady spot in the forest.

Q: Do I need to bring anything?

A: No. We have protective helmets for riders to use, although you’re free to bring your own riding or bicycle helmet if you like. Sunglasses are worth considering, and if you’d like to bring a water bottle that’s fine. For all-day rides, we encourage riders to use sunscreen and bring any important medicines, because they will be in remote areas for several hours at a time.

Q: Do you have an age limit for kids?

A: Children 6 and older are welcome to ride with us. Children under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian to fill out and sign a waiver.

Q: Do you have a weight limit?

A: We have horses who are able to carry heavy riders.  In deciding whether or not we can safely accommodate a rider, we consider height and riding experience as well as weight.  We also have to consider the availability of a suitable horse at the time of the requested ride.  We work with prospective riders and try to make a safe and enjoyable ride happen. We ask for heights, weights, and riding experience of all riders at the time we take a reservation, and if we feel that there might be an issue we will reach out to the person making the reservation. As a general guideline, those under 6’ tall should weigh less than 200 pounds, and those over 6’ tall should weigh less than 240 pounds.

Q: Can I trot and canter on my ride?

A: It depends. Our 1 hour group trail rides are walking rides, so you should not expect to be able to trot and canter. If trotting and cantering are important to you, we encourage you to plan a 3 or 4 hour private ride. On a private ride, you will be riding on you own with a Ricochet guide. If trail conditions permit, and if our guide believes you can do so safely, you’ll be able to trot and canter on the beach, on trails through cattle ranches, or in the redwoods.

Q: Do you let people ride double or ride bareback?

A: Sorry, no.

Q: What is your cancellation policy?

A: Charges for daily trail rides booked through our reservation system or by phone will be refunded if we receive at least 48 hours’ notice of cancellation. No-shows will not receive a refund. For multiple-day rides, custom riding vacations, and Redwood Coast Riding Vacations, we require a deposit that is refunded if we receive notice of cancellation at least 7 days before the guest’s scheduled arrival.

Q: What is your policy on tips for guides?

A: Our guides appreciate tips, which can be given directly to the guide or charged to your credit card along with your ride fees. Of course, tips are not required and we hope our guests will offer a tip only if they feel their guide has earned one.

Q: Can I bring my own horse for one of your riding vacations?

A:  Usually not. We don’t have room at our facility to board guests’ horses, and our insurance does not cover riders who are not on our horses.