Forest and pasture.
The trails wind through shaded forest and open pasture before heading down toward the river. Quiet, scenic, mostly flat.
Simmons Quarter Horses · Nanaimo, BC
Trail rides along the Nanaimo River.
Saddle up at the barn and ride out through pasture and forest to the river. The horses are calm, the pace is yours, and first-timers are more than welcome.
A warm welcome
Simmons Quarter Horses is Brandee Simmons' ranch — family-run, western, and built around a love for the horses she's raised and trained for years.
Trail rides are how most people first meet the ranch. Come ride with us — we'll pick out the right horse for you.
$125
1-hour ride, per rider
$225
2 hours, per rider
$300
3 hours, per rider
What the ride is like
A quiet ride through pasture, forest, and riverbank.
Simmons trail rides are unhurried. We pair you with a horse that fits your level, take the trails at whatever pace suits your group, and keep things easy from the moment you pull up.
Along the Nanaimo River.
A long stretch of the ride runs alongside the river. It's the prettiest part of the trail, and usually the bit people remember most.
Horses chosen for their heart.
Our trail horses are the ones we trust most — calm, steady, and wonderful with new riders. We'll match you with the one that's right for you.
Easy to book.
Pick a date, pick a time, reserve your spot online. Your horse will be tacked and ready by the time you arrive.
About the ranch
A family ranch, run by people who love the horses.
Simmons Quarter Horses is Brandee Simmons' ranch along the Nanaimo River — a western operation where she breeds quarter horses, teaches lessons, and takes people out for rides. Most visitors come for a trail ride and end up coming back.
Beyond trail rides
What else the ranch does.
Trail rides are usually the first visit. If the ranch sticks with you, there are other ways to spend time here.
Also at the ranch
Western Lessons
Private, semi-private, and group lessons. Beginners welcome.
Learn more
Also at the ranch
Kids Camps
Seasonal camp days for kids getting into horses.
Learn more
Also at the ranch
Horses for Sale
Quarter horses from the ranch's own breeding program.
Learn more
Also at the ranch
Boarding
Full-service boarding at a working ranch.
Learn more
What riders say
The ranch earns repeat visits.
Most of what happens at Simmons Quarter Horses is driven by word of mouth. Here's what a few of those mouths have said.
A truly fantastic barn with a welcoming and friendly environment. Wonderful coaches, supportive riders, and amazing horses located on a beautiful property. Beyond thrilled to have found Brandee. Highly recommend!
Ashley R. · Facebook recommendation
Amazing horses — well-trained, healthy, good temperament. Horses, cows, pigs, goats, and sheep, all so friendly.
Alexis · Google review
My daughter had a blast on a birthday trail ride down to the river! Always a great time.
Gillian R. · Facebook recommendation
Book a ride
Pick a date, pick a time — we'll have your horse ready.
Trail rides at Simmons Quarter Horses are reserved and paid for online. Book anytime, and we'll see you at the barn.