Before You Visit,Here Are Your Answers

No experience is needed. Most guests have never ridden before, and our horses are calm and beginner-friendly. Our staff will match you with a horse suited to your comfort level and walk you through everything before you head out.

This is a relaxed, walking ride — not a fast-paced trail ride. The focus is on the experience, the scenery, the movie town, and the animals. If you are looking for something high-speed, this is probably not the right fit.

You will ride through the movie town — the saloon, sheriff's office, jail, church, and surrounding western buildings — and out into the landscape. The scenery is open, quiet, and unlike anything else near Santa Fe.

Yes. Our horses are well-trained, gentle, and selected specifically for rider comfort. Every horse on the property is here because they have earned the trust to carry guests safely.

Riders must be at least 8 years old. The weight limit is approximately 250 pounds. If you have a question about whether someone in your group qualifies, contact us before booking.

Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Dress in layers — temperatures can shift, especially in spring and fall.

Yes. You are welcome and encouraged to take photos. We just ask that you do it while stopped rather than during the ride itself.

Helmets are required for riders under 18. Adults may choose whether or not to wear one.

Most rides are private or kept to small groups. If you want to confirm a fully private ride, mention that when you book.

We offer 1-hour guided rides through the movie town and surrounding areas. Longer ride options are also available. Contact us to discuss what fits your group and schedule.

The movie town is a fully built-out Western frontier set constructed in 1969 and used in more than 250 film and television productions. It includes a saloon, jail, church, sheriff's office, hotel, and other period-appropriate buildings — all real structures with history in them.

Yes. Guests can walk through and explore the interiors — the saloon, the jail, the church, and more. This is not a look-from-the-outside experience. You move through it.

Yes. Riding through the movie town is part of the horseback experience. Most guests say it is the part they remember most.

Yes. Walking tours are available for guests who prefer not to ride. You will still get to walk through the town, hear the history, and explore at your own pace.

Yes — one of the most used private film locations in the Southwest. Productions including major studio films, streaming series, commercials, and editorial shoots have been filmed here.

Yes. We offer guided walking tours of the movie town and ranch for guests who prefer to explore on foot.

Walking tours are typically around one hour. Custom tours for larger groups can be arranged in advance.

Tours cover the history of the ranch, the films and productions shot here, and time to walk through and photograph the movie town.

Yes. Tours are great for families, kids, and guests of all ages. Kids especially tend to love the movie town — walking into a real Western jail cell or saloon does something to them.

Yes. Mortenson Ranch is one of the most distinctive wedding venues in New Mexico. We host both intimate ceremonies and larger celebrations, with the Western frontier town, open landscape, and dramatic setting as your backdrop.

Yes, though April through October is the most popular window due to weather. If you have a date in mind outside peak season, reach out and we will talk through what to expect.

We can host both small gatherings and larger celebrations of up to around 300 guests, depending on setup. Share your guest count and we will walk you through the best layout for your vision.

Inside or outside the church in the movie town, in open areas with the landscape as a backdrop, or other spots that fit your vision. We can host both ceremony and reception in distinct locations on the same property.

Yes. You are welcome to bring your own vendors. We also have a list of local vendors who know the property well.

Yes. Horses, carriage rides, and Clyde the buffalo can be incorporated depending on your event plan. These are the moments guests talk about longest after the day is over.

This is a historic outdoor Western setting — real character, changing light, and atmosphere no ballroom can replicate. We have indoor spaces available as backup for weather, and we will always work with you if conditions require a change.

Weddings, private parties, corporate retreats, family gatherings, brand activations, and more. The ranch is flexible enough for almost any event that benefits from an authentic, unforgettable setting.

Yes. Private bookings and full buyouts are available. Contact us to discuss your event and we will outline what is possible.

Yes. Horseback rides, carriage rides, ranch tours, and Clyde encounters can all be built into your event.

Yes. Clyde lives on the ranch full-time and guests often have the opportunity to see him. Encounters can also be arranged specifically as part of your booking — mention it when you reach out.

Yes, photos are part of the experience. All interactions are supervised by our staff with clear safety protocols. Clint has raised Clyde since he was a calf — but he is still a large wild animal, and we take that seriously.

Yes. Clyde is available for select productions, shoots, and events. All requests are handled directly by Clint. Reach out early — lead time matters.

Mortenson Ranch is located approximately 20 minutes south of Santa Fe. We will send exact directions and arrival instructions when you book.

No — guests will need to arrange their own transportation. Driving is the easiest option.

Please plan to arrive 10–15 minutes before your scheduled time.

If weather becomes a concern, we may pause to see if conditions improve. If not, we will work with you to reschedule. Indoor options may be used when possible.