While Arizonans continue to look for fun ways to beat the extreme summer heat, there's a stunning property located in Chandler at Wild Horse Pass that is offering a unique, outdoor experience.
Chuck Pablo, owner of Chuck’s Trail Riding Adventures, has owned the KOLI Equestrian Center since 2004. He worked at the local facility before making it his own. Tripadvisor recently awarded them a Travelers’ Choice Award, which he says they have received every year since 2020.
"Right now, we are on our summer schedule so we only operate early mornings and late evenings. Early morning and late evening rides are offered for those who want to beat the summer heat, and offered because those are the safest riding hours for the horses," explained Pablo, adding that riders 21 and older can mix things up with their Margarita and Sunset ride that departs at 6 p.m. in August.
Through August, Pablo said they offer a buy two riders get the third rider free special on group 60-minute rides between 7 and 9 a.m. Guests must book online, selecting the Summertime Special to get this discount. They also offer tribal discount rides and options to ride at their sister location, AZ High Mountain Trail Rides at Mormon Lake.
During the month of August in the Valley, they provide the 60-minute group rides that depart at 7 a.m., 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. The first ride of the day is the Early Bird Ride at 5:30 a.m.
"Early mornings are always best to avoid excessive heat and any inclement weather," said Pablo. "We recommend all guest drink plenty of water starting a day or two before the ride date and limit caffeine and alcoholic beverages to avoid dehydration. Wranglers will carry water with them, however, if a guest needs it, the ride must stop for everyone so the person can drink and return the bottle to the wrangler. This ensures the guest does not drop the bottle and spook the horses next to them."
According to Pablo, all horses are stored during the hot summer days in the Valley of the Sun.
"Horses are turned loose in the corrals for the day with plenty of fresh water and shade, of course we send half of our horses to the north for the summer at AZ High Mountain Trail Rides at Mormon Lake as well," Pablo added. "I know it's obvious, but we care for them just like humans during these extreme temps."
KOLI Equestrian Center is located in Chandler at 6940 W. Broken Ear Road at Wild Horse Pass. For more information, visit KOLIequestrian.com and click the top-right button to check out all the ride options, times, availability and to reserve your ride.
