How to Find a Little Mountain Magic Before the Snow Falls with Golden Horseshoe Sleigh Rides
Here’s a local secret: you don’t have to wait for deep snow to feel the real mountain magic. Before the trails turn white and the dog teams and snowmobiles take over, there’s a quieter kind of wonder happening just up the road.
Our neighbors at Golden Horseshoe Sleigh Rides start running their Fall Wagon Hayrides long before the snowpack builds. Think cozy blankets, steaming drinks, gentle draft horses, and views of mountain tops peeking through the pines.
It’s one of those easy, off-the-beaten-path adventures you might miss if someone didn’t tip you off — and it all happens right on the Good Times property.
It’s the perfect way to catch your breath, soak in the season, and feel that first whisper of winter.
Pro Tip: Even after the ski slopes open, this is an ideal add-on to a mountain getaway, an alternative for non-skiers or littles, or a peaceful break from lift lines and heavy gear.
A Horse-Drawn Ride Through the Colorado Backcountry Awaits
Just a few miles up the Swan River Valley on Tiger Road — right at our shared entrance — you’ll find the starting point for Golden Horseshoe’s Fall Wagon Hayrides. The ride follows the Middle Fork trail, weaving through quiet pines and meadows along the edge of the White River National Forest at nearly 10,000 feet above sea level.
Two Belgian draft horses — strong, steady, and surprisingly sweet — are harnessed to pull a cherry-red wagon fitted with hay bales that can seat up to 20 guests. Rides are shared, so you might be joined by other mountain adventurers — but that just adds to the friendly, seasonal charm.
Here’s what to expect:
- A 30-minute scenic ride led by seasoned wranglers
- 10 minutes of horse time at the end for photos and pets
- Cozy blankets available if needed — but don’t forget your layers
- A warm mug of house-made apple cider or hot cocoa (adult version available for 21+ with a designated driver)
- Time to warm up after the ride in a historic miner’s tent with a crackling wood stove — or linger by the campfire tucked into the pines
Trail setting? Postcard and Instagram-worthy. Vibe? Rocky Mountain chic.
A Cozy Break from the Slopes (or a Great Option for Non-Skiers)
Breckenridge is buzzing once the ski hills are open — but not everyone wants to (or can) spend all day on the mountain. Whether you’re traveling with littles, non-skiers, tired legs, or just craving a quiet moment away from lift lines and gear bags, the Fall Wagon Hayride offers the perfect pause.
Who Will Love This:
- Families with kids too small for the slopes
- Mixed-activity groups (skiers + chill-seekers)
- Locals and travelers who want a calmer kind of mountain moment
- Guests looking to add a rustic, seasonal adventure to their stay
- Skiers who need a break between morning runs and après — without leaving that high-elevation magic behind
Fall Wagon Hayrides happen just a short drive from downtown Breckenridge — no lift tickets, parking hassle, or equipment rentals. Just wide-open mountain air in a quiet, picturesque setting.
Traveling with young children and looking for other alternatives to the slopes? Check out our Family-Friendly Activity Guide for more ideas!
Make It a Full Cozy Colorado Day
The last Fall Wagon Hayride wraps up in the mid-afternoon—just in time to roll into Breckenridge and catch a little afternoon happy-hour glow.
A few local favorites to keep the vibes going:
- Breckenridge Distillery – Award-winning spirits and a full food menu
- Breckenridge Brewery – Classic craft beers and hearty fare, great for groups
- Broken Compass Brewery – Laid-back and dog-friendly — perfect if you’re traveling with four-legged family members
Whether you’re warming up or winding down, these local spots are the perfect way to toast a cozy fall afternoon in Breck.
Know Before You Go
- Location: Same entrance and parking as Good Times Adventures (Get directions here!)
- Season: Fall Wagon Hayrides begin in early November and switch into full sleigh ride mode once there’s enough snow (usually mid-December). Winter offerings typically continue through April, depending on snow levels as the weather warms.
- Who It’s For: All ages are welcome
- What to Wear: Layers, hats, gloves — blankets are available if needed, but you’ll be happier bundled up
- Don’t Forget: Sunglasses — that high-altitude sun is no joke, even in the cold
- How to Book: Reserve directly with Golden Horseshoe at https://coloradosleighrides.com/sleigh-rides/fall-hay-wagon-ride/
Pro Tip: While hot cocoa and cider are offered on site, there’s no coffee available, so plan ahead if you need a caffeine boost. Try local favorites like Cuppa Joe, The Crown, or Clint’s Bakery on your way up — or bring your own thermos of coffee to stay fueled.
Looking Ahead to Winter
Once the snow starts stacking up, the wagon wheels come off and the sleigh runners take over. Keep an eye on the website for details, but the full schedule includes Private Romantic Sleigh Rides, Hot Cocoa Rides in the Big Red Sled, the Mining Camp Dinner Theatre Ride, and more!
Learn more about winter activities and booking at coloradosleighrides.com!
And when there’s enough snowpack, Good Times also starts firing up the Ski-Doos and pulling out the dog sleds, so you can come out and enjoy everything the mountains have to offer — maybe even all three!
You can check out Good Times’ snowmobile tours and dog sledding adventures at goodtimesadventures.com. Or dive deeper with our First-Time Snowmobiling Guide and Dog Sledding 101 blogs to get an insider look at what to expect before you go!