Where to Go Horseback Riding in Hocking Hills

Hocking Hills is a sprawling natural paradise located southeast of Columbus, Ohio. Many visitors choose to hike and bike the trails or set out on a tubing trip down the Hocking River—but if you want to slow down and relax while taking in all the scenery, plan a horseback riding trip.

Our guide will cover all the essentials of horseback riding in Hocking Hills, including the best time to go, some top-rated stables in the area, and where to go if you bring your own horse. Book your stay with Hocking Lodging Company and read on for more information.

Horseback Riding in Hocking Hills 101

Horseback Riding In Hocking Hills

Photo Credit: Valeri Vatel

A horseback riding trip in Hocking Hills is an experience like no other. You’ll get to see secluded, picturesque destinations unreachable by car, without all the difficulties of hiking in on foot. If you book a guided trip, you can also benefit from an expert informing you of all the area’s best features.

Speaking of, visitors of all skill levels and nearly all ages can enjoy a guided horseback riding trip—no need to wonder whether your group has enough experience or stamina. And for those who are traveling with youngsters who can’t ride horses yet, many riding stables provide additional activities to keep the littlest kids entertained.

Where to Go Horseback Riding in Hocking Hills

A number of horseback riding stables take visitors down scenic trails, both public and private—we’ll get to those shortly. Let’s talk about where you can go horseback riding if you bring your own horses.

No matter which trail you choose, read online condition reports beforehand and check for closure signs when you arrive—many routes can get dangerously muddy or icy in certain weather. And, as always, pay close attention to your surroundings since you’ll likely be sharing the trail with your fellow riders, bikers, and hikers.

When to Go Horseback Riding in Hocking Hills

Horseback riding is possible all year round in Hocking Hills, especially if you bring your own horses instead of going on a guided tour. As we mentioned, though, trail conditions may vary depending on the weather, so it’s up to you to assess whether horseback riding will be feasible during your visit.

With that said, summer and fall are usually the best times of year to go horseback riding in Hocking Hills. You’ll get warm, mostly dry weather, as well as incredible views. During the summer, you might see flowing waterfalls and active wildlife; during fall, you’ll have a front-row seat to vibrant foliage.

Naturally, these will be the busiest times of year to visit Hocking Hills, so plan out your trip well in advance. If you want to take a ride with a professional stable, make your reservations as soon as possible so you don’t miss out.

Horseback Riding Stables in Hocking Hills

If you want to go for a guided horseback ride in Hocking Hills, you’re in luck—several top-rated stables across the area promise a great time for you and your travel companions. Take a look at these options to see which stable will suit your preferences, and remember, book those trips well in advance.

Blue Moon Acres

Blue Moon Acres

Photo Credit: Christa Benadum

Blue Moon Acres is smaller than most public horseback riding stables, but that just means a more personalized experience for guests. This boutique-style business is open by appointment only, so you’ll have to put together those trip plans well in advance. Those who do will be rewarded with a challenging, scenic trip, where you’ll actually learn to ride rather than just follow a guide.

Rides take place Wednesday through Sunday, mid-April through November (aside from another closure in late summer to handle horse care).

Uncle Buck’s Riding Stable

Uncle Bucks Riding Stable

Photo Credit: Holly Webber

Horseback rides at Uncle Buck’s Riding Stable range from one to three hours in length, covering several different destinations in Zaleski State Forest. As a result, guests of all skill levels and (almost) all ages can go for a ride on the well-trained horses here.

When you get back to Uncle Buck’s, a variety of family-friendly entertainment and food awaits at the Lady Buck Saloon, including BBQs with live music and craft beer and wine for the grown-ups.

Rose Moon Ranch

Photo Credit: Derek Cook

Located near Hocking Hills’ famous Old Man’s Cave, this equestrian center works to rescue and rehabilitate horses—rest assured that the money you spend at Rose Moon Ranch will go to a good cause. As for other factors working in Rose Moon’s favor, the stable is open year-round and allows guests of all experience levels (4 years old and up), so you can expect a warm welcome if you’re traveling with kids or beginners.

The Vacation Vaquera

The Vacation Vaquera isn’t your typical horseback riding outfit. Instead of supplying you with horse, tack, and bridle, Vacation Vaquera serves only as a knowledgeable guide, letting guests do the rest. This allows for much more freedom while still getting to learn all about the Hocking Hills area and its many bridle trails.

Spotted Horse Ranch

Spotted Horse Ranch

Photo Credit: Heather Ludlow

Spotted Horse Ranch offers a variety of guided trail rides, from brief, one-hour excursions to a five-hour-plus Cowboy Cookout Ride that comes with fresh-cooked eats. As fun as these trips are, they’re just the start of everything you can do at Spotted Horse.

You might decide to spend some time exploring the ranch, where you can take a look at critters like turkey, fallow deer, and water buffalo. Or, if you’re planning a get-together, consider renting out the Party Hall.

Where to Stay When You Horseback Ride in Hocking Hills

Whether you’re interested in a quick jaunt through nature or you want a more extensive riding experience, Hocking Hills has all kinds of different trails and stables to suit your needs. And planning your trip is just the start of the fun—there's no telling what surprises you’ll see out on the trails.

No matter how you decide to go horseback riding in Hocking Hills, don’t forget to book your stay with the Hocking Lodging Company. Our cabins, lodges, and RV sites aren’t far from the bridle trails and stables, and some of our properties even have facilities for your horses.

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