Horseback riding is a popular activity that offers a unique way to explore the great outdoors. With breathtaking views and stunning scenery, it’s no wonder why so many people choose to saddle up and hit the trails. From the rugged mountains of Montana to the sandy beaches of Florida, there are countless destinations across the United States that offer exceptional horseback riding experiences. In this article, we will highlight the best place to go horseback riding in each state, detailing why each location is an excellent choice for horseback riding, the scenery that the rider can expect at that location, times of year that the rider should visit, any specific regulations horseback riders should be aware of in that specific state, and any equipment they should plan to bring along with them on each ride.
Alabama: Little River Canyon National Preserve
Little River Canyon National Preserve offers visitors a chance to explore the unique natural features of northern Alabama while horseback riding. Riders can expect to see stunning waterfalls and deep canyons as they navigate the trails. The best time to visit for horseback riding is during the fall and spring months when the weather is milder. Riders should bring appropriate clothing and footwear for the changing weather conditions.
Alaska: Chugach State Park
Chugach State Park is located just outside of Anchorage and offers visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of Alaska on horseback. Riders can expect to see snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and abundant wildlife such as moose and bald eagles. Horseback riding is best during the summer months, but riders should be prepared for rain and mosquitoes. Riders should bring rain gear, insect repellent, and warm clothing.
Arizona: Saguaro National Park, Tucson
Saguaro National Park in Tucson, Arizona, is home to the iconic saguaro cactus and offers riders a chance to explore the unique Sonoran Desert ecosystem on horseback. Riders can expect to see a variety of desert plants and wildlife, including coyotes and javelinas. The best time to visit for horseback riding is during the fall, winter, and spring months when the weather is milder. Riders should bring appropriate sun protection, such as hats and sunscreen, and plenty of water.
Arkansas: Ouachita National Forest
Ouachita National Forest in western Arkansas offers riders a chance to explore the beautiful Ouachita Mountains. Riders can expect to see stunning views of the forest and surrounding mountains, as well as wildlife such as deer and black bears. The best time to visit for horseback riding is during the fall and spring months when the weather is milder. Riders should bring appropriate clothing and footwear for the changing weather conditions.
California: Point Reyes National Seashore
Point Reyes National Seashore, located just north of San Francisco, offers riders a chance to explore the rugged California coastline on horseback. Riders can expect to see stunning ocean views, as well as wildlife such as seals and sea lions. Horseback riding is best during the summer and fall months, but riders should be prepared for changing weather conditions. Riders should bring appropriate clothing and footwear, as well as sun protection.
Colorado: Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park in northern Colorado is a popular destination for horseback riding. Riders can expect to see stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and abundant wildlife such as elk and moose. The best time to visit for horseback riding is during the summer months, but riders should be prepared for changing weather conditions. Riders should bring appropriate clothing and footwear, as well as sun protection.
Connecticut: Cockaponset State Forest
Cockaponset State Forest in central Connecticut offers riders a chance to explore the forested hills of New England. Riders can expect to see a variety of trees and wildlife, including deer and black bears. Horseback riding is best during the spring, summer, and fall months, but riders should be prepared for changing weather conditions. Riders should bring appropriate clothing and footwear, as well as insect repellent.
Delaware – Brandywine Creek State Park, Wilmington
Brandywine Creek State Park in Wilmington, Delaware, offers beautiful trails through rolling hills, meadows, and forests. Horseback riders can enjoy scenic views of the Brandywine River and wildlife like deer and foxes. The best time to visit is in the fall when the foliage is at its peak. Horseback riders should bring their own horses as there are no rental facilities on-site.
Florida – Amelia Island State Park, Amelia Island
Amelia Island State Park in northeastern Florida is an excellent location for horseback riding. The park has over 200 acres of unspoiled beaches, salt marshes, and coastal maritime forests that visitors can explore on horseback. The best time to visit is in the winter months when the weather is cooler, and the beaches are less crowded. Horseback riders should bring their own horses or make arrangements with local stables for rentals.
Georgia – Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests, Gainesville
The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests in northern Georgia offer over 200 miles of trails for horseback riders to explore. The forest’s stunning scenery includes rolling hills, dense forests, and sparkling streams. The best time to visit is in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom. Horseback riders should bring their own horses or make arrangements with local stables for rentals.
Hawaii – Na’alapa Stables, Waimea
Na’alapa Stables in Waimea, Hawaii, offers guided horseback rides through the stunning Waipio Valley. Riders can enjoy breathtaking views of the valley’s towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush tropical rainforest. The best time to visit is in the winter months when the weather is cooler and the waterfalls are at their peak. Na’alapa Stables provides all necessary riding equipment.
Idaho – Redfish Lake, Stanley
Redfish Lake in Stanley, Idaho, is an excellent location for horseback riding, with trails that take visitors through rugged mountains, pristine forests, and tranquil meadows. Horseback riders can enjoy stunning views of the lake and the Sawtooth Mountains. The best time to visit is in the summer months when the weather is warm and the wildflowers are in bloom. Horseback riders should bring their own horses or make arrangements with local stables for rentals.
Illinois – Shawnee National Forest, Harrisburg
Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois offers over 403 miles of horseback riding trails that traverse forests, hills, and valleys. Horseback riders can enjoy stunning views of the forest’s rock formations, waterfalls, and scenic bluffs. The best time to visit is in the fall when the foliage is at its peak. Horseback riders should bring their own horses or make arrangements with local stables for rentals.
Indiana – Brown County State Park, Nashville
Brown County State Park in Nashville, Indiana, is a popular destination for horseback riding. The park’s trails offer a variety of terrain, from rolling hills to rugged forested terrain. Horseback riders can enjoy stunning views of the park’s lakes and streams. The best time to visit is in the fall when the foliage is at its peak. Horseback riders should bring their own horses or make arrangements with local stables for rentals.
Iowa: Pikes Peak State Park
Located in northeast Iowa, Pikes Peak State Park offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding bluffs. The park has over 10 miles of horseback riding trails, including some challenging terrain for more experienced riders. It’s a great location for those looking for a peaceful and scenic ride. The best time to visit is during the fall months when the leaves are changing colors. Riders should be aware that some areas of the park are closed during hunting season, which typically runs from October to December.
Kansas: Flint Hills
The Flint Hills in eastern Kansas is a unique and beautiful location for horseback riding. The tallgrass prairie is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, and deer. Horseback riders can explore the area’s winding streams and rugged hills on the 50 miles of trails in the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. Riders should be prepared for the elements, as temperatures can vary greatly between day and night. Spring and fall are the best times to visit, as the summer months can be hot and humid. Riders should also be aware of ticks and take necessary precautions.
Kentucky: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
The Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill in Harrodsburg, Kentucky, offers a unique horseback riding experience through the rolling hills of Kentucky’s bluegrass region. The village has over 3,000 acres of preserved land, and riders can choose from a variety of trail options, ranging from one to three hours. The area is known for its beautiful horse farms and scenic countryside. The best time to visit is during the spring or fall, when the temperatures are mild and the foliage is at its peak. Riders should be aware that there is a weight limit of 250 pounds for riders.
Louisiana: Fontainebleau State Park
Located on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, Fontainebleau State Park is a beautiful location for horseback riding. The park offers over 2,800 acres of natural beauty, including a mix of hardwood forests and pine flatwoods. Riders can explore the park’s 7 miles of equestrian trails, which wind through scenic vistas and over wooden bridges. The best time to visit is during the fall, winter, and spring months, as the summer months can be hot and humid. Riders should be aware that there are restrictions on horseback riding during hunting season.
Maine: Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park in Maine offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country, and horseback riding is a unique way to experience it. The park offers over 45 miles of horseback riding trails, including some challenging terrain for more experienced riders. Riders can explore the park’s rocky coastline, pristine forests, and mountain vistas. The best time to visit is during the fall, when the foliage is at its peak. Riders should also be aware of the park’s strict regulations, including a weight limit of 220 pounds for riders and a requirement for a special permit to ride on certain trails.
Maryland: Assateague Island National Seashore
Assateague Island National Seashore in Maryland is home to a population of wild horses that have roamed the island for centuries. Horseback riders can explore the island’s beaches and dunes on the park’s 5 miles of horseback riding trails. The best time to visit is during the spring or fall, when the temperatures are mild and the crowds are smaller. Riders should be aware that there is a weight limit of 250 pounds for riders, and that the horses on the island are wild and should not be approached or fed.
Massachusetts: Mount Greylock State Reservation
Mount Greylock State Reservation is the highest point in Massachusetts, with a peak that rises over 3,000 feet above sea level. The park has over 50 miles of trails that wind through the forested slopes and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Horseback riders can explore the park’s diverse terrain and experience the changing landscape as they climb higher up the mountain. Riders can also enjoy the colorful fall foliage during autumn months. The park has designated horse trails, but riders must stay on these trails to protect the natural environment. The best time to visit for horseback riding is from May to October. Riders should bring their own horses and equipment or rent from local stables.
Michigan: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is located in northwestern Michigan and is home to towering sand dunes that stretch for miles along the shore of Lake Michigan. Horseback riding is allowed on certain sections of the park’s 100 miles of trails, including the Platte Plains Trail, Bay View Trail, and Windy Moraine Trail. Riders can take in stunning views of the lake and the surrounding forests as they traverse the dunes. The best time to visit for horseback riding is in the summer months when temperatures are mild and the park’s wildflowers are in bloom. Riders should bring their own horses and equipment or rent from local stables.
Minnesota: Moose Lake State Park
Moose Lake State Park is located in eastern Minnesota and is home to a beautiful lake and a variety of habitats, including marshes, meadows, and forests. The park has over 20 miles of horse trails that wind through the landscape and offer riders stunning views of the lake and surrounding areas. Riders can also see a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and a variety of birds. The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit for horseback riding is in the spring and fall when temperatures are mild and the park is less crowded. Riders should bring their own horses and equipment.
Mississippi: Natchez Trace Parkway
Natchez Trace Parkway is a 444-mile scenic road that runs from Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee. The parkway follows an ancient Native American trail and offers stunning views of the landscape, including dense forests, rolling hills, and meandering streams. Horseback riders can explore the parkway’s numerous trails, including the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail, and take in the scenery at a leisurely pace. The parkway is open year-round, but the best time to visit for horseback riding is in the spring and fall when temperatures are mild and the parkway is less crowded. Riders should bring their own horses and equipment or rent from local stables.
Missouri: Mark Twain National Forest
Mark Twain National Forest is located in southern Missouri and is the only national forest in the state. The forest covers over 1.5 million acres and has a variety of landscapes, including rolling hills, forests, and rivers. Horseback riders can explore the park’s numerous trails and take in stunning views of the Ozark Mountains. The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit for horseback riding is in the spring and fall when temperatures are mild and the park is less crowded. Riders should bring their own horses and equipment or rent from local stables.
Montana: Flathead National Forest
Flathead National Forest is an ideal location for horseback riding enthusiasts. The forest covers over 2.4 million acres, providing riders with plenty of trails and beautiful scenery. The forest is home to an abundance of wildlife, including bears, elk, and wolves. Visitors can explore the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex, which is one of the largest wilderness areas in the United States, on horseback. The best time to go horseback riding in Flathead National Forest is from late spring to early fall, as the trails may be covered in snow during the winter months. Riders should bring a jacket as the temperature can drop rapidly in the evening. Visitors should also note that a permit is required for overnight camping and there are specific regulations regarding camping and fire restrictions.
Nebraska: Calamus Outfitters
Calamus Outfitters is located in the beautiful Sandhills region of Nebraska. Visitors can take guided horseback rides through the beautiful terrain, which includes rolling hills, valleys, and canyons. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, antelope, and wild turkeys. Visitors can also go fishing or tubing in the Calamus River. The best time to go horseback riding in Calamus Outfitters is from May to October, as the weather is usually pleasant during this time. Riders should bring sunscreen and insect repellent, as the area is known for its mosquitoes.
Nevada: Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, located near Las Vegas, offers visitors a unique horseback riding experience. The area features stunning red rock formations and views of the Las Vegas skyline. Visitors can choose from a variety of trails that range from easy to difficult, depending on their skill level. The best time to go horseback riding in Red Rock Canyon is in the spring or fall, as temperatures can soar in the summer. Riders should bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the area can be hot and dry. Visitors should also be aware that there are specific regulations regarding horseback riding in the conservation area.
New Hampshire: Chocorua KOA
Chocorua KOA, located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, offers visitors guided horseback rides through the beautiful mountain terrain. The trails wind through forests, streams, and fields, offering riders stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The best time to go horseback riding in Chocorua KOA is from May to October, as the weather is mild during this time. Riders should bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop rapidly in the evening. Visitors should also note that there are specific regulations regarding horseback riding in the White Mountain National Forest.
New Jersey: Double D Ranch
Double D Ranch, located in Sussex County, New Jersey, offers visitors guided horseback rides through the beautiful countryside. The ranch is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and rabbits. Visitors can choose from a variety of trails that range from easy to difficult, depending on their skill level. The best time to go horseback riding in Double D Ranch is from May to October, as the weather is usually mild during this time. Riders should bring insect repellent, as the area is known for its mosquitoes.
New Mexico: Santa Fe National Forest
Santa Fe National Forest offers over 1.5 million acres of beautiful mountainous terrain for horseback riding enthusiasts. The forest is home to some of the most diverse landscapes in the country, including mesas, mountains, and canyons. The trails in the forest cater to riders of all skill levels, with easy, intermediate, and advanced options. The peak season for horseback riding in Santa Fe National Forest is from May to October when the weather is mild and pleasant. It is recommended that riders bring their own gear, including helmets, boots, and other riding equipment. Riders should also be aware that certain trails may be restricted during the hunting season.
New York: Adirondack Park
Adirondack Park is a six-million-acre park in northeastern New York that is famous for its beautiful lakes, forests, and mountain peaks. The park has more than 2,000 miles of trails, making it an excellent destination for horseback riders of all skill levels. The park is open year-round, but the best time to go horseback riding is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the foliage is at its peak. Visitors should bring their own equipment, including helmets, boots, and other riding gear. It is important to note that certain trails in the park may be closed during the hunting season, and riders should be aware of any restrictions before embarking on a ride.
North Carolina: DuPont State Recreational Forest
DuPont State Recreational Forest is a 10,000-acre park in western North Carolina that is known for its stunning waterfalls, deep forests, and diverse wildlife. The park has over 80 miles of trails, including several that are open to horseback riders. Riders can expect to encounter streams, bridges, and other obstacles along the way, making for a challenging and exciting ride. The best time to visit DuPont State Recreational Forest for horseback riding is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its peak. Riders should bring their own equipment, including helmets, boots, and other riding gear, and should be aware of any restrictions before embarking on a ride.
North Dakota: Theodore Roosevelt National Park
Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a 70,000-acre park located in western North Dakota. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including bison, elk, and pronghorns, as well as stunning natural beauty. The park offers several horseback riding trails, including the popular Achenbach Trail, which offers stunning views of the Little Missouri River. The best time to go horseback riding in Theodore Roosevelt National Park is from May to October, when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its peak. Riders should bring their own equipment, including helmets, boots, and other riding gear, and should be aware of any restrictions before embarking on a ride.
Ohio: Hocking Hills State Park
Hocking Hills State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. The park is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Ohio, including waterfalls, caves, and rock formations. The horseback riding trails in the park cater to riders of all skill levels, with easy, intermediate, and advanced options available. The best time to go horseback riding in Hocking Hills State Park is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its peak. Riders should bring their own equipment, including helmets, boots, and other riding gear.
Oklahoma: Arbuckle Trail Rides
Arbuckle Trail Rides, located in Sulphur, Oklahoma, offers trail rides through the scenic Arbuckle Mountains. This area is known for its natural beauty, including waterfalls, streams, and rugged terrain. The rides vary in length and difficulty, ranging from one hour to a full day, so there’s something for riders of all levels. Visitors can also book a stay in one of the cozy cabins on the property to extend their experience. The best time to visit is from spring to fall, as the trails can become icy and treacherous in the winter months. Visitors should come prepared with appropriate riding gear, including helmets and boots.
Oregon: The Cascade Mountains
The Cascade Mountains, located in central Oregon, offer breathtaking views and a variety of terrains for horseback riders. The area has an extensive network of trails that take riders through old-growth forests, alpine meadows, and stunning mountain landscapes. Some of the most popular trails include the Pacific Crest Trail, the Metolius-Windigo Trail, and the Santiam Pass Trail. The best time to visit is during the summer months when the trails are free from snow and the weather is mild. Riders should be prepared for the high altitude and unpredictable weather by bringing layers and appropriate gear for their horse.
Pennsylvania: The Pocono Mountains
The Pocono Mountains in northeastern Pennsylvania offer miles of scenic trails for horseback riding. The area is known for its rolling hills, dense forests, and sparkling lakes. Some of the top trails include the McDade Recreational Trail, the Lackawaxen River Trail, and the Lehigh Gorge State Park Trail. Riders can enjoy everything from leisurely trail rides to more challenging terrain with hills and streams. The best time to visit is during the fall, when the foliage is at its peak, or during the spring when the weather is mild. Visitors should come prepared with appropriate riding gear, including helmets and boots.
Rhode Island: Arcadia Management Area
Arcadia Management Area in Exeter, Rhode Island, offers more than 14,000 acres of pristine wilderness for horseback riding. The area is home to numerous trails that wind through dense forests and over babbling brooks. Riders can choose from several trails, including the Barlow Trail and the Breakheart Trail, which range in difficulty and length. The best time to visit is during the fall, when the foliage is at its peak, or during the spring when the weather is mild. Riders should be aware of hunting season and wear bright colors during their ride.
South Carolina: Carolina Adventure World
Carolina Adventure World in Winnsboro, South Carolina, is a premier destination for horseback riding enthusiasts. The property offers more than 100 miles of trails that wind through the rolling hills and forests of the Piedmont region. The trails vary in difficulty, making it an ideal destination for riders of all levels. Visitors can enjoy everything from leisurely trail rides to more challenging terrain with hills and streams. The best time to visit is during the fall or spring, when the weather is mild. Riders should come prepared with appropriate riding gear, including helmets and boots.
South Dakota: Black Hills National Forest
Located in western South Dakota, Black Hills National Forest offers scenic horseback riding trails for riders of all levels. The forest covers over 1.2 million acres and has over 450 miles of trails to explore. Riders can expect to see a variety of wildlife such as bison, elk, and deer, as well as stunning rock formations and forests. The best time to visit is during the summer months, as the trails can be covered in snow during the winter. Riders are required to have a permit, and should also bring appropriate equipment such as a helmet, proper riding boots, and water for both themselves and their horse.
Tennessee: Natchez Trace State Park
Located in the western part of the state, Natchez Trace State Park is a great destination for horseback riders. With over 250 miles of trails, riders can explore the park’s beautiful forests, rolling hills, and tranquil lakes. Visitors can bring their own horses or rent them from the park’s stables. Horseback riding is available year-round, but spring and fall are the best times to visit due to the mild weather.
Texas: Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Palo Duro Canyon, known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” is a popular destination for horseback riding. The park offers guided tours and trail rides that allow visitors to experience the stunning beauty of the canyon. Riders can choose from a variety of trails that range in difficulty level. Horseback riding is available year-round, but it’s recommended to avoid the hot summer months.
Utah: Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park is a unique destination for horseback riding. Riders can explore the park’s otherworldly hoodoo formations and stunning vistas. Guided trail rides are available from the park’s concessionaires, and visitors can bring their own horses as well. The best time to visit for horseback riding is in the spring and fall, when the temperatures are cooler.
Vermont: Green Mountain National Forest
Green Mountain National Forest in Vermont is a great destination for horseback riding. Riders can enjoy the park’s beautiful forests, rolling hills, and picturesque streams. There are over 900 miles of trails available for horseback riding, and visitors can bring their own horses or rent them from nearby stables. Horseback riding is available year-round, but the best time to visit is in the fall, when the foliage is at its peak.
Virginia: Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park in Virginia is a popular destination for horseback riding. The park offers over 180 miles of horse-friendly trails, including the famous Skyline Drive. Visitors can bring their own horses or rent them from nearby stables. Horseback riding is available year-round, but spring and fall are the best times to visit due to the mild weather and stunning foliage.
Washington: Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park in Washington is a diverse destination for horseback riding. Riders can explore the park’s coastal beaches, temperate rainforests, and alpine meadows. Guided trail rides are available from the park’s concessionaires, and visitors can bring their own horses as well. The best time to visit for horseback riding is in the summer, when the weather is mild and the wildflowers are in bloom.
West Virginia: Monongahela National Forest
Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia is a great destination for horseback riding. Riders can enjoy the park’s scenic trails, which wind through forests, meadows, and mountains. Visitors can bring their own horses or rent them from nearby stables. Horseback riding is available year-round, but the best time to visit is in the fall, when the foliage is at its peak.
Wisconsin: Governor Dodge State Park
Governor Dodge State Park in Wisconsin is a popular destination for horseback riding. The park offers over 35 miles of horse-friendly trails, which wind through forests, prairies, and wetlands. Visitors can bring their own horses or rent them from nearby stables. Horseback riding is available year-round, but the best time to visit is in the fall, when the foliage is at its peak.
Wyoming: Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is one of the most famous and beloved parks in the United States, and for good reason. Not only is it home to incredible geothermal features, such as the iconic Old Faithful geyser, but it also boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. Horseback riding in the park allows riders to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty and wonder of the park. Visitors can ride through lush meadows, forests, and along the banks of rivers, all while taking in views of the park’s famous mountains and valleys. It’s important to note that horseback riding is only allowed in certain areas of the park and requires a permit, so be sure to plan ahead and follow park regulations.
Conclusion
Horseback riding can be an exhilarating and peaceful experience for riders of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or a beginner looking to explore new trails, there are endless opportunities to explore the beautiful landscapes of the United States on horseback. Each state offers its own unique terrain and regulations for riders to be aware of, but with proper planning and equipment, riders can safely and comfortably experience the beauty of each location. So, grab your saddle and reins and hit the trails for an unforgettable horseback riding adventure.
