Horseback Riding
Saddle up and see Alabama from a whole new perspective. With trails winding through forests, fields and plains, horseback riding offers plenty of peace and adventure. Whether you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned equestrian, exploring on horseback brings you closer to our state’s land and its beauty.
Seasonality: Best in fall and spring
Optimal Skill Level: Beginner to expert
Photo: Kimberly Archambault
Find the best places to hit the trail on horseback.
Oak Mountain State Park
Pelham, AL
With around 25 miles of designated horseback trails, Oak Mountain State Park is one of Central Alabama’s premier riding destinations. The park’s Orange Trail is reserved exclusively for horses, meaning you and your horses can ride safely. Guided tour rides are also available through the Rusted Roof Barn.
Hodges Equestrian Park
Hodges, AL
The Hodges Equestrian Park, designed specifically for equestrian use, offers wide, well-maintained trails perfect for riders across all skill levels. Though common, visitors must bring their own horse to explore the park.
Paul Grist State Park
Valley Grande, AL
Home to nearly 23 miles of trails suitable for horseback riding, Paul Grist State Park provides plenty of space for a day on the saddle. While riders need to bring their own horse, the quiet setting and rolling landscapes make it well worth the trip.
Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve
Huntsville, AL
The 740-acre preserve at Chapman Mountain offers 4.5 miles of multi-use trails that welcome explorers of all kinds, from hikers to bikers and most especially horseback riders. Open from dawn to dusk, the preserve is perfectly situated to allow you to enjoy nature on horseback just minutes from Huntsville.
Alabama National Forest
Statewide
In four national forests in multiple regions of the state, Alabama’s national forests offer extensive horseback riding opportunities. From long-distance trails to campsites designed with equestrians in mind, riders can experience miles of forested adventure across our state’s diverse terrain.
As you explore, always remember to follow leave no trace principles, stay on the marked trails and help keep Alabama beautiful.
Explore Alabama’s Natural Resources
Find trails, locations and more all on one map, and dive deep into all Alabama has to offer.
- Enter a world of adventure in one of Alabama’s four national forests.
- Relax ocean-side on one of Alabama’s white-sand beaches.
- Discover beautiful species in Alabama’s diverse ecosystems.
- Stand at the top of Alabama at Cheaha Mountain—Alabama’s highest peak.
