Someday, we are all going to be allowed to travel again. Right now, COVID-19 has sidelined many of our adventures. One of my favorite parts about visiting new places is exploring their horseback riding trails. We have a lot of spectacular scenery and incredible horse trails to explore right here in the United States. Depending on your location, you may be able to travel safely to some of these and explore them for yourself. Here is a list of 14 of the top locations in the USA for horse trail rides.

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Located in Tennessee, horseback riding in Gatlinburg is a unique way to visit this park. You can explore the mountains with a guide – fall is a particularly stunning season here.

2. Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon sprawls across southern Utah and is known for its rock formations. Horseback riding Bryce Canyon is one of the easiest ways to explore the vast space and get a good look at all of the spire-shaped rocks – also known as hoodoos.

3. Colorado Springs

Whether you are in town for business or vacation, you cannot miss the opportunity to ride with one of the dude ranches or other stables in the area. The views of the Rocky Mountains and miles of trail in Pike National Forest make this a favorite destination for equestrians.

4. Hocking Hills

There are miles of trails meandering through this state park in Ohio and while you’re horseback riding Hocking Hills you’ll have the chance to see waterfalls, caves (perhaps even explore some while a guide holds your horse!), and enjoy the beauty of the park.

5. Sedona, Arizona

This desert town is known for it’s equestrian community as many enjoy horseback riding in Sedona and exploring the trails available. Sedona has miles of trails and equestrians have plenty of options to choose from, whether it’s in Dead Horse Ranch State Park on the Casner Mountain Trail, or one of several others.

6. Glacier National Park

Now, I know that I’m biased, but horseback riding Glacier National Park in Montana should probably be at the top of everyone’s list. I love this park, and took time out from a kayaking trip to explore on horseback with some friends.

7. Palm Springs

When you think of visiting this posh California town, horseback riding Palm Springs probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. But, there are some fabulous stables in the area and you can enjoy the palms from between two ears.

8. The Pocono Mountains

The Poconos – located in Pennsylvania – are known for their mountains, pristine lakes, and beautiful valleys. Many visitors enjoy exploring the area while horseback riding the Poconos.

9. The Grand Canyon

We’re back in Arizona, but this time, we’re horseback riding the Grand Canyon. And what better way to explore such an awe-inspiring place than on the back of a trusty horse (or mule!). You can ride within the park or with a private outfitter.

10. Lake Tahoe

The Lake straddles the border between California and Nevada in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It’s a deep lake and a stunning blue color. There is often snow on the peaks of the Sierra Nevada Mountains year round making this an incredible place to explore. Lake Tahoe horseback riding offers the chance for some stunning views from places few other trail users get to visit.

11. Wisconsin Dells

The Midwest has a lot to offer visitors, and if you happen to be in the neighborhood you can enjoy horseback riding Wisconsin Dells through a wildlife refuge and in Mirror Lake State Park. There are many other attractions in Wisconsin Dells to keep the entire family entertained.

12. Yosemite

We’re back in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, and this time horseback riding Yosemite. What better way to see the places that photographer Ansel Adams made famous than from the back of a horse? You’ll enjoy riding through the ancient sequoia trees and catching glimpses of El Cap and Half Dome.

13. Jackson Hole

Wyoming is iconic for its cowboys and horses and no trip is complete without horseback riding in Jackson Hole. Ample opportunities exist through outfitters and the national parks. Trail riding in Wyoming is part of the fabric of the landscape – take advantage of the opportunity.

14. Griffith Park

Where? Well, if you’ve ever thought it would be fun to ride a horse under the Hollywood sign in California then you’ll need to add horseback riding Griffith Park to your to-do list for your next trip to Los Angeles.

The United States has a wide variety of terrain to explore and horseback trail riding is one of the best ways for us to enjoy horseback riding in the USA. Many areas offer public horseback riding trails, whether you are bringing your own horse or riding with an outfitter. Plan some time on your next trip to get out there and ride!