Cave Creek, AZ - What could be a more fitting way to celebrate this Valentine’s Day, which also marks Arizona’s Centennial celebration, than a romantic sunset trail ride along the footsteps of Arizona’s pioneers? “Our horseback rides take you through pristine territory that was home to prehistoric Native Americans, explored by miners and homesteaders, and served as a route for stagecoaches and the cavalry even before Arizona became a state,” says Deb Bitton, co-owner of Cave Creek Trailrides.
The Ride & Rose Valentine’s Day and Centennial Celebration Special, available Feb. 1-14, features a 1-hour or 1.5-hour guided trail ride for two at sunset, the perfect time to watch a warm, golden hue wash over the Sonoran Desert in peaceful Cave Creek Regional Park. “Cave Creek Trailrides is one of the most magical places around to experience the romance of the old west and the beauty of the amazing Arizona sunsets,” said Marry Livingston, a repeat Cave Creek Trailrides guest. After the ride, every lady receives a rose. “It’s a romantic and unique way to combine the two celebrations,” said Bitton.
Special sunset ride rates February 1-14
The one-hour sunset ride is $96 per couple; the 1.5-hour sunset ride is $116 per couple. Each price is a $10 savings per couple off the regular rates. (There is an additional $6 Maricopa County park entrance fee, which the county uses to maintain the grounds.) Based on the popularity of Valentine’s Day specials in previous years, Bitton suggests that you book your reservations early: call 623-742-6700.
More information about the sunset rides and other Cave Creek Trailrides special programs, including earning Girl Scout badges and hosting birthday parties, is available at www.cavecreektrailrides.com .
The rides
Cave Creek Trailrides caters to all levels of riding experience for everyone who is six or older. “We’re proud to say that we have a great track record for our number-one priority, which is our guests’ safety,” said Bitton.
While waiting for their trail rides to begin, guests can pet ride-ready horses and see how lovingly they are cared for. “We’re known for having clean corrals and good, healthy, quality horses,” said Bitton. “There’s a feeling of well-being here, and it translates to the whole experience.”
About Cave Creek Trailrides
Jeff and Deb Bitton began to offer trail rides in Stanley, Idaho in 1969. They opened Cave Creek Trailrides in 1999 to create a true western experience on the northern fringes of the Greater Phoenix area. Families, friends and neighbors, as well as corporate, school, church and civic groups all enjoy learning about horses, nature and local history in addition to the trail rides. Jeff and Deb have cowboy and cowgirl boots, hats, chaps, toy guns and lassos available for those who want to dress up for the rides and memorable photos.
“We’re in a memory-making business,” said Bitton. “Our guests get to ride a horse, have fun and enjoy a western experience that lasts a lifetime.”
What: Ride & Rose Valentine’s Day and Centennial Celebration Special from Cave Creek Trailrides.
Where: Cave Creek Regional Park, Cave Creek, AZ.
When: Feb. 1-14, 2011. Rides begin a 4:30 p.m. for the 1.5-hour sunset trail ride and 5:00 p.m. for the 1-hour sunset trail ride. Cave Creek Trailrides is open during the 2012 season through May 6.
Prices: From $96 per couple.