You’re standing at the edge of the Los Angeles River, the 134 freeway humming like a giant mechanical bee in the background, and you're about to climb onto 1,200 pounds of muscle and mane. It sounds like a movie trope. Actually, half the movies you’ve seen were probably filmed about ten minutes from here. But horseback riding in Griffith Park isn't just for tourists or cinematic backdrops.
Honestly, most locals don't even realize they can still do this. They think the stables all vanished or that you need to own a ranch in Hidden Hills to get near a saddle. That’s just not the case.
The Reality of Griffith Park Horse Rentals Today
Let’s clear something up immediately. People often get confused because there used to be a massive rental operation right at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center (LAEC) called Griffith Park Horse Rentals. It closed a few years back, which led to a lot of "the horses are gone!" rumors.
They aren't gone.
✨ Don't miss: Flights to Pune India: What Most People Get Wrong
If you want to ride today, you’re basically looking at two main gateways: the Burbank side (near the LAEC) and the Hollywood side (Beachwood Canyon).
LA Horse Rentals (The Burbank Gateway)
This is the "new" main player on the north side. They operate out of the same general area as the old stables. If you’re looking for variety, this is your spot. They offer everything from a quick 30-minute loop for the "I'm terrified but curious" crowd to a massive three-hour trek up to Mt. Hollywood.
Expect to pay around $50 for an hour and up to $175 for the long hauls. They do have weight limits—usually around 200 lbs—and if you’re over that, they might charge a bit more or match you with a specific "heavy-duty" horse.
Sunset Ranch Hollywood (The Iconic View)
Located at the end of Beachwood Drive, this is where you go if you want the "Instagram shot." You are literally riding under the Hollywood Sign. It feels a bit more "touristy" than the Burbank side, but you can’t argue with the views of the Griffith Observatory and the downtown skyline.
They’re famous for their evening rides. There is something fundamentally "LA" about watching the city lights flicker on from the back of a horse named Buster.
Why You Can't Just Gallop Away
I’ve seen people show up in spurred boots thinking they’re in Yellowstone. Slow down.
The trails in Griffith Park are strictly "walking only" for rentals. Why? Safety and volume. You’re sharing these trails with hikers, off-leash dogs (which shouldn't be off-leash, but let’s be real), and mountain bikers. The horses are "bomb-proof," meaning they’re used to helicopters and sirens, but they are still animals.
If you want to gallop, you’re in the wrong place. These are guided nose-to-tail rides.
The "Pony Ride" Heartbreak
We have to talk about the kids. For 74 years, the Griffith Park Pony Rides were a rite of passage for every LA toddler. They closed in late 2022 after a lot of back-and-forth about animal welfare. It was a huge blow to local nostalgia.
📖 Related: The Rhode Island Map of Cities and Towns Nobody Actually Explains Right
If you have a very small child (under 7), you can still find "hand-led" rides at the remaining stables. LA Horse Rentals and the smaller Griffith Park Horse Rental (located on Riverside Drive) offer these. It’s not the same as the old pony circle, but it gets the kids on a horse for 20 minutes for about $30.
What No One Tells You Before You Go
Don't wear shorts. Just don't.
Horse hair is prickly, and leather saddles will chafe your inner thighs within ten minutes. Wear jeans. Also, the "closed-toe shoe" rule is non-negotiable. If you show up in flip-flops, you’re watching from the fence.
Cash is Still King
Even in 2026, these stables love cash. You’ll often see a "Cash Price" and a "Credit Card Price" (which is usually $5-$10 more per person). Also, tip your guides. They spend all day in the sun shoveling things you don’t want to think about. A tenner per rider is the standard "don't be a jerk" move.
The Weather Factor
Griffith Park gets hot. Like, "uncomfortably dry heat" hot. If it's over 90 degrees, many stables will stop riding for the safety of the horses. Always call ahead if the Santa Ana winds are kicking up or if it’s a scorcher.
Choosing Your Trail
Not all loops are equal.
- Oak Canyon: Great for shade. If it’s a warm day, the tree canopy here is a lifesaver.
- Skyline Trail: This is for the views. You’ll see the Verdugo Mountains and the San Fernando Valley stretching out forever.
- Amir's Garden: A weirdly beautiful volunteer-run garden in the middle of the park. Some of the longer rides pass near here.
Is It Actually Worth It?
Look, if you’re an experienced equestrian who owns three stallions, you’ll probably find this boring. But for everyone else? It’s a perspective shift.
💡 You might also like: How to go from Newark Airport to JFK: The Options That Won't Make You Miss Your Flight
You’re in the middle of one of the most congested cities on Earth, yet you’re hearing the clop of hooves on dirt and smelling sagebrush. It’s quiet. It’s a reminder that before the 405 and the high-rises, this was all just rugged, dusty canyon land.
Actionable Next Steps for Your Ride
- Check the Weight: If anyone in your party is over 200 lbs, call the stable specifically. They have limited horses that can safely carry more weight, and you don't want to be turned away at the mount.
- Book the Morning: Specifically for the Burbank side (LA Horse Rentals). The 3-hour Mt. Hollywood ride usually only happens on Sunday mornings. It's the best value if you actually want to ride and not just sit there for 40 minutes.
- Bring Water: You can't take a backpack on the horse usually, but most saddles have a small horn bag or pouch. A small disposable water bottle (that you don't mind getting dusty) is essential.
- Navigation Tip: If you’re going to Sunset Ranch, the GPS can get wonky in Beachwood Canyon. Follow the signs for the Hollywood Sign, but keep your eyes peeled for the specific ranch turn-off at the very end of the residential street.
The horses are waiting. Just remember to wear the long pants.