Rebecca Williams
Eight riders from the Horseback Riding Group enjoyed a gorgeous ride on Dec. 6, 2025, at Donnelly’s D-Spur Stable in Gold Canyon. This location is about 75 minutes from the Ranch, on the eastern edge of Phoenix. Riders had a beautiful view of the Superstition Mountains, which were cloaked in soft green by the recent generous rain in the area. There was fresh grass growing along the trail, and the blue skies set off the colors of the area perfectly.
Riders were treated to the gentle climb up a small hillock that has a great view of Phoenix to the west. This is a great location for a ride.
The group will be on a brief break to bridge over to the warmer weather, riding again on Saturday, Feb. 7. The location for that ride is still pending. On March 7 the group returns to Donnelly’s D-Spur Ranch in Gold Canyon, followed by Rancho de los Cerros on April 7 in Catalina State Park, to hopefully enjoy spring flowers at each location.
If you are interested in the Horseback Riding Group’s activities, go to the Saddlebrooke HOA website, “Things to do”, “Clubs.” There in the middle column is a link to the “Horseback Riding Group.” Click on that and you will see more information and the email address to get in contact with the group.
If you would like to participate in a particular ride, you can reserve it on the club’s “Team Reach” site. Just send an email to Secretary Rebecca Williams, and she will invite you to “Team Reach.” There you will see more information on a particular ride. Using “Team Reach” makes it very easy to make your reservation or cancel if you need to. On Wednesday ahead of the ride further instructions and directions will be sent via email to those participating in that weekend’s ride.
You can participate as often as you choose. All rides are usually one hour at a walk, just to enjoy the scenery. The price for each ride varies, but is typically $60 to $75 including tip. We all pay at the stable on the day of the ride. Carpools may also be arranged upon request. Happy Trails!