"In riding a horse, we borrow freedom." —Helen Carter
The T Cross Ranch sits on the edge of the largest wilderness in Wyoming: the Washakie Wilderness. This land, which connects to Yellowstone, is the largest undeveloped area in the lower 48 states. The T Cross is a literal island of private land sitting in the Shoshone National Forest, giving guests 850,000 untouched acres to ride for an unforgettable horseback riding vacation.
This land has been carved naturally by water, wind, and glaciers, leaving behind beautiful and diverse scenery. Horseback is the only way to see this country. This is western riding in its purest form, the way it originated, the way few people experience it.
Since the ranch sits at 7,800 feet, breathtaking views for our guests are guaranteed. Many ranches have to trailer their horses and guests, or ride for an hour before arriving at country like ours. Simply put, we take off where other ranches end.
The ranch owns over 60 head of horses, each hand-selected to suit the ability of different riders. We offer unforgettable western horseback riding for all skill levels. T Cross guest ranch wranglers have taught hundreds of guests how to ride. Numerous people arrive never having sat in a saddle; they leave with confidence and experience. Our sure-footed horses are bred, raised, and grazed in the mountains. They are mountain horses. Our wranglers are experienced cowboys with literally thousands of miles on horseback under their belts. Let your horse share the favorite, familiar trails. We will help you gain the confidence you need to enter these lofty retreats. You are in good hands–and on good hooves.
Riding instruction is given at the beginning of each week. We want to make sure personalities match, so you will meet your assigned horse for the week first thing. From there, the friendship between you and your horse begins.
Riding groups are divided according to experience and skill. Beginning riders will ride together, and advanced riders will ride together. We make sure to give each guest the desired horseback riding experience for his or her visit. Our program isn't set for the ranch; it is tailored especially for you.
Morning and afternoon rides range from 1-3 hours. Morning rides saddle up at 9 a.m., afternoon rides at 2 p.m. Typically, Wednesday and Friday all-day rides are 4-8 hours long with a sack lunch included.
Our highly anticipated event of the week is the Thursday morning Gymkhana (games on horseback.) Organized by the wranglers of T Cross, the games include all. Barrel racing, pole bending, team penning, and also some foot rodeo, this proves to be an exciting day. Our shovel race is the highlight for many a young guest. As competition is friendly, this is the perfect chance to put your newly learned horsemanship skills to the test.
Come to the T Cross and learn the skills of a Western horseman. As Winston Churchill said, "No hour of life is wasted that is spent in the saddle."
