For over five decades, Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides, formerly known as Borges Sleigh and Carriage Rides, has been an iconic fixture in the Nevada landscape, offering guests enchanting journeys through breathtaking scenery. What began as a humble raffle prize in 1967 has blossomed into a cherished family business, now helmed by Dianna Borges and her husband Dwight, with their children actively involved in carrying on the tradition. This enduring enterprise, operating primarily in the picturesque Sand Harbor State Park, exemplifies a deep-rooted passion for animals and a commitment to creating lifelong memories for visitors.
The genesis of Borges Sleigh and Carriage Rides is a charming tale rooted in serendipity. In 1967, Sam Borges, the patriarch of the family, won a pony in a raffle. This unexpected windfall sparked an idea that would shape his family’s future. Naming the pony "Little Joe" after a beloved character from the Western television series Bonanza, Sam began offering pony rides to neighborhood children. This initial venture quickly evolved, leading to the acquisition of Sam’s first horse and sleigh. A pivotal agreement with Brooks Park allowed Sam and his wife, Rosie, to conduct sleigh rides across their cattle fields during the winter months, laying the groundwork for what would become a generational business.
"It’s a lifestyle, not a job," Dianna Borges frequently states when asked about the demands of running Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides. This sentiment encapsulates the all-encompassing nature of their work. The business operates year-round, though hours are adjusted seasonally. The daily rhythm begins at 6 a.m. with the feeding of approximately 15 horses, followed by another feeding at 6 p.m. The responsibilities extend beyond animal care, encompassing the maintenance of pastures, fences, and the general upkeep required for such a unique operation. The unpredictability of animal care means that the Borges family is on call around the clock, ready to respond to any need, even in the middle of the night. This dedication, while demanding, is balanced by the profound satisfaction of working with beloved animals on a beautiful property and providing joy to others.
The company’s offerings are as diverse as the seasons. During the holiday period, Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides becomes an integral part of community celebrations. They are often referred to as "Santa’s personal Uber," participating in tree lightings, Santa sleigh rides, Christmas caroling events, and other special city festivities. Beyond the festive season, their services are highly sought after for a variety of personal milestones. Carriage rides are a popular choice for birthdays, marriage proposals, and weddings, adding a touch of magic and romance to these significant occasions. The business has also catered to Quinceañeras and Sweet Sixteens, further demonstrating their adaptability to different cultural celebrations.
Throughout the year, guests can experience one-hour or 30-minute tours. In the winter, the sleigh rides offer unparalleled views of the north shore of Lake Tahoe near Sand Harbor, a location renowned for its stunning natural beauty. During the warmer months, the focus shifts to carriage rides offering a more urban experience, winding through areas near shops and restaurants, with options for excursions down to the lake. The sheer dedication to their animals and the operational demands highlight the significant investment of time and energy required. Data from the American Veterinary Medical Association suggests that equine care can demand 2-4 hours of labor per day per horse, a figure that aligns with the Borges family’s description of their daily routine, especially when factoring in the business operations and customer-facing aspects.
One of the most significant challenges faced by Dianna and her team revolves around public perception and the industry’s reputation. "The hardest part about running our business is the public’s opinions about our type of business and the industry that we’re in," Dianna admits. She counters the misconception that their animals are solely exploited for profit, emphasizing the profound bond and deep affection the family has for their horses. The media, she suggests, has played a role in shaping a negative narrative for the horse-drawn carriage and sleigh industry.
Dianna is a passionate advocate for the well-being of her animals, explaining that their work is essential for maintaining their health and vitality. "Horses need this work and exercise to stay healthy," she asserts. She further elaborates that their horses genuinely enjoy their roles. She shares an anecdote about two horses in their thirties, too old for strenuous work but still exhibiting signs of distress when deprived of human interaction. This highlights a nuanced understanding of equine psychology and the importance of social engagement for these animals. The business adheres to stringent regulations and always prioritizes the welfare of its horses, a commitment that is often misunderstood by those unfamiliar with the industry. The lack of widespread personal experience with horses among the general population contributes to these misconceptions, making transparency and open communication with customers paramount for the business. The emotional reward, Dianna notes, comes from witnessing the joy on children’s faces as they encounter the horses, a testament to the positive impact they strive to create.
In terms of operational efficiency, the Borges family has found a reliable partner in Patriot Software. Dianna describes the software as "flexible" and "easy to learn," a crucial factor for a small business where individuals often wear multiple hats and may not have specialized accounting backgrounds. The accessibility of customer support from Patriot has been a significant advantage, especially when compared to experiences with larger software providers. "Getting hold of people at Patriot for help has been relatively easy," she notes, adding that the cost-effectiveness and user-friendliness of the software have streamlined their administrative tasks, allowing them to focus more on the core aspects of their business. This sentiment is echoed in industry reports, which indicate that small businesses often prioritize intuitive software solutions that reduce administrative burden and are cost-effective, allowing for reinvestment in core operations and growth.
The pride of Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides lies in its core mission: "to make people happy." This overarching objective drives their commitment to providing memorable experiences that last a lifetime. Dianna views their ability to offer something so special as a profound blessing, recognizing that it requires a unique team capable of touching guests’ hearts. This dedication to creating joy and fostering positive emotional connections is the cornerstone of their business philosophy.
When not immersed in the demands of the sleigh and carriage business, Dianna and Dwight embrace a spirit of adventure and exploration. They are avid travelers, having journeyed to destinations worldwide. Antarctica holds a special place in Dianna’s heart, while Dwight favors Costa Rica. These travels are often combined with a passion for experiencing sleigh rides in different cultures, offering opportunities to connect with new people and learn about diverse traditions. This global perspective reinforces their belief in the fundamental similarities that unite people across the world, a valuable lesson learned through extensive travel. Their travels also serve as a source of inspiration and a way to unwind, often involving trail rides with their own horses, a practice that doubles as exercise for the animals and a personal indulgence for the owners. This philosophy of "working hard and playing hard" defines their approach to life and business.
For aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make a significant impact in their communities, the Borges family offers a piece of enduring advice, passed down through generations: "Find what it is you love doing and make money doing it." They acknowledge that all businesses face challenges, but a deep-seated passion for one’s work provides the resilience needed to overcome obstacles. The core message is that if you truly love what you do, the line between work and life blurs, and the effort feels less like a chore and more like a fulfilling pursuit. This philosophy has guided them for over five decades and continues to inspire their children and future generations involved in Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides.
The legacy of Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides is not just about providing unique transportation; it is about fostering joy, upholding a family tradition, and demonstrating a profound commitment to animal welfare. Their story, deeply intertwined with the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe and the enduring spirit of a family business, continues to enchant visitors and serve as an inspiration to small business owners nationwide. The recent update to reflect their company name change underscores their ongoing evolution while honoring their rich history.
The broader implications of businesses like Tahoe Sleigh & Carriage Rides extend beyond economic contributions. They play a vital role in preserving cultural heritage, promoting tourism, and offering unique experiences that connect people with nature and tradition. In an increasingly digitized world, the tangible, immersive experiences offered by such enterprises hold significant value, providing moments of wonder and escape. The success of this family-run business, rooted in passion and perseverance, stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of authentic experiences and the power of a shared family vision.
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