Maryland is a Mid-Atlantic state in the USA, defined by a large expanse of waterways and coastlines. It is the birthplace of the US national anthem and home to the National Aquarium.
If you are not fishing blue crabs in one of its enchanting waters, you should ride on the back of beautiful, gentle horses in some stables. Going on trail rides is a fun family activity that helps people make memories.
Are you looking for stimulating things to do in Maryland? Consider horseback riding in Maryland by heading to the beautiful stables below. Remember, Maryland is horse country. So, take advantage of your visit and go for a guided ride or lessons.
Here are the best places to visit for horseback riding in Maryland.
Horseback Riding in Maryland
1. River Valley Ranch
RVR, as the place is shortened, is a destination for fun and leisure activities in Maryland. Of the numerous outdoor services River Valley Ranch provides, horseback riding is unique, as it takes you back to the ’50s.
Its picturesque horse trail covers over 500 acres, making it a must-visit. This place is spectacular for family getaways, with facilities that cater to individuals and groups. They also offer horseback riding lessons for anyone looking to up their game.
In addition, the staff is accommodating and helpful whenever you need extra aid. People use the Ranch for endurance events, summer camping, group retreats, and other life-changing events. You can’t go wrong coming to RVR for a quality outdoor experience.
Address: 4443 Grave Run Road Manchester, MD 21102, United States
2. Happy on Hooves
This is where happy people converge to enjoy great moments amid laughter and cheerfulness. It has a good trail with an expert guide, making the riding experience worthwhile. So, get set for a fantastic moment at Happy on Hooves.
You will enjoy a friendly ride through the woods, meadows, and a small creek. The horses are lovely creatures willing to give you the best you deserve. They are well-behaved and cared for, so there is nothing to worry about. Moreover, the establishment has all the facilities you need for a superb-riding experience.
While you may never get to trot because the trail rides are slow, you will have fun with those lovely animals. You can come around for your birthday or any other special day celebrations. Overall, it is an excellent way to spend quality time.
Address: 5014 Mt Carmel Rd, Hampstead, MD 21074, United States
3. Elk Mountain Trails
Going horseback riding in Maryland with Elk Mountain Trails is a must-do when visiting Maryland. It provides Western Pleasure Trail Riding with over 30 years of experience in the field.
The crew takes you through the banks of the Potomac River along the C&O Canal or the Blue Ridge Mountains, edging two National Parks. In addition, there are horses for all levels of experience, whether beginners or advanced.
You will get helpful tips from the guides before mounting the horses to ensure your safety. But the horses are gentle and easy to ride, so you don’t have to worry about anything.
The scenery along the trail is beautiful. You will get to ride through uphill and downhill sections. This could be the opportunity to have a beautiful and relaxed experience on your vacation to Maryland. However, it is necessary to book your tour on their website.
Address: 921 Hoffmaster Rd, Knoxville, MD 21758, United States
4. Merkel Farm Equestrian Center
This family-owned and operated equestrian center offers traditional horseback riding lessons and horse training. It is tucked away close to Bowie State University, with miles of trails that enable an easy horse-riding experience.
The classes range from beginners to advanced training programs, according to years of riding experience. If you have kids up to five years old, you can bring them on and let them enjoy fun riding moments while learning to take their experience to a new level.
Horseback riding is about the fun, confidence, and responsibility gained in mastering the art. The exciting part is the friendship that blossoms by meeting other fun lovers, coming to learn how to ride and care for horses.
In addition, the business provides horses for the classes and makes facilities available for everyone. Merkel Farm Equestrian Center is a good option if you want to go horseback riding in Maryland.
Address: 9439 Merkel Farms Rd, Bowie, MD 20715, United States
5. Holly Ridge Farm Equestrian Center
Just minutes from Ocean City rests Holly Ridge Farm Equestrian Center. It provides year-round horseback riding in Maryland and other fantastic programs. If you are vacationing in the city, you should try their trail riding through rolling farms and woods packed with wildlife.
It is family-oriented and a great place for everyone to enjoy exciting activities. If you are not riding, you can take lessons, use the venue for parties, or board your horses. There are always exciting things to spend your leisure doing here.
Moreover, the horses are well-trained and of excellent quality. The staff will assist you while matching you with a perfect horse. So, you get more than enough value for your money when you make your reservations.
Address: 36609 Purnell Crossing Rd, Willards, MD 21874, United States
6. Queenside Stables
At Queenside Stables, riders of all ages are trained to obtain basic and advanced knowledge of horse riding. They offer group and individual lessons that focus on individualized attention.
Riders from age three are free to obtain training at this location; it is what they have been doing since 2011. If your kids love horses, why not invite them to Queenside Stables to obtain the necessary skills? Their farm is beautiful. You can also walk around to share good moments with nature.
Undoubtedly, the horses are excellently maintained, giving them an edge over some farms. The trainers also have the right amount of patience with learners. So, it is something worth trying if you love classic horseback riding.
Address: 20001 Bucklodge Road, Boyds, MD, United States
7. Painted Horse Ranch
Painted Horse Ranch, tucked away in Elkton, Maryland, is a spectacular farm that offers something for everyone. Your first time will likely be the beginning of your frequent visits, as there is a lot to catch up with.
The trail ride takes you through untouched woods, cornfields, and running waters, where the horse can stop for a drink. Instead of hiking always, you can drop by and let the horse do it. But if you are not ready to sign up for it, you can add it to your bucket list.
What’s more, you will enjoy riding side-by-side with other enthusiastic people. Lessons are also offered for diverse horse experience levels. This Ranch is friendly and community-oriented, accommodating people of all ages. The staff is lovely and knowledgeable about the business, helping through it all.
Address: 25 Bradley Run Rd, Elkton, MD 21921, United States
Plan to explore the cities of Maryland, check out our guide on things to Do in Hagerstown, and things to Do in Columbia for fun exploration.
8. Misty Manor Riding Stables
Another hotspot for horseback riding with acres of picturesque views in Maryland is Misty Manor Riding Stables. It has miles of charming wooded trails running alongside flowing streams. Whether you are an experienced rider or just about trying your first, there is a trail ride for you.
These trails are different from the usual. The woods alone are filled with flora and fauna. The winding trails are perfect for those great horses you mount as they gallop.
Guests can find other exciting activities on the farm to keep the fun going. Among them is learning how to ride on the back of a well-cared-for horse. Misty Manor does not mandate you to book a ride before you can visit.
Address: 7621 Ridge Rd, Marriottsville, MD 21104, United States
9. Fairwinds Farm & Stables
This full-service horse farm is an excellent place for horseback riding in Maryland for people of all ages. It encompasses over 52 acres of wooded land with six fenced fields, two barns, and an indoor and outdoor ring. Fairwinds Farm & Stables also has a restored Victorian home, which doubles as a Bed & Breakfast.
Moreover, the setting is warm and welcoming for those interested in trail rides, pony rides, and other fun rides. Their horses are trained for all riding levels. You can also acquire riding lessons at the facility.
Most people go for trail rides, which feel relaxing with those quiet, steady horses. You will get to choose your trail, which is more than impressive.
There is something for everyone here, even if you have not ridden on horseback before. For your little ones, you can book pony rides at the location. Come celebrate your birthday at this venue; they will take you to a new level of enjoyment.
Address: 41 Tailwinds Ln, North East, MD 21901, United States
10. Western Trails
Western Trails, conveniently nestled in the middle of the Deep Creek Lake area, is one of the oldest riding stables in the city. It was established in 1970 by Fredlock Schenk and his son Larry. They operated the farm with a dairy barn.
Numerous horses from diverse origins are used for trail riding, hand-led pony rides, and hayrides. Anyone can be your favorite; each is as exciting as the other. If you choose a trail ride, you may find attractive wildlife.
An hour trail ride takes around four miles, taking you through open fields or a wooded mountainside with an apple orchard. Aside from operating trail rides, they have other related services, such as breeding, training, and classes.
The place is open year-round, welcoming people of all ages to their facility. Ensure your camera is handy because you will have many fun moments to capture. It’s stunning here; give them a call today.
Address: 4009 Mayhew Inn Rd, Oakland, MD 21550, United States
11. Miner Hickory Farm Stables
Year-round, Miner Hickory Farm Stables provides a welcoming atmosphere for horse experiences. It is another beautiful farm located not far from Deep Creek Lake. One of the loveliest things to do if you visit Maryland is to make time to stroll through the stables and enjoy the scenic views.
A great way to culminate your visit is to go for a trail ride through the woods with other happy people riding friendly horses. Let your family experience the fun here by riding into the steep rolling hills of Western Maryland.
It is another way to enjoy this vacation and create unforgettable family moments. At Miner Hickory Farm, people also go for riding lessons and short-term horse boarding. The friendly staff will assist you as you take your lessons filled with exhilarating flashes.
If you are coming from a far location, they have a cabin for guests at affordable rates. So, when you are done exploring the heart of Maryland, come and relax, unwind, and be pampered here.
Address: 160 Miner Hickory Rd, Grantsville, MD 21536, United States
12. Olney Farm
This family-owned establishment is a great place to spend quality time and share the love of kids and animals. It has existed since 1855, survived many generations, and remained a pony-breeding, boarding, and training business.
Your kids will love to ride on the set of dazzling ponies they have here. But that does not mean you will idly watch them go on pleasure rides. Of course, there are trails along the woods on a farm nearby, where you can mount your horse and join your little ones.
If you don’t have the right skills to ride the horses, they offer riding lessons for basic, immediate, and advanced experiences. They also board and care for horses. Overall, Olney Farm is a place to see, ride, and have competition with horses.
Address: 1001 Old Joppa Rd, Joppatowne, MD 21085, United States
13 Circle R Ranch
If you are looking for an excellent place for horseback riding in Maryland, Circle R Ranch provides one of the best experiences. The stables are near Deep Creek Lake, perfect for an outdoor experience.
Take an hour away from the hustle and bustle of the city and sneak into this Maryland ranch for a little pampering. You can take an open sleigh ride with their Draft horses if you want a different experience.
You will discover what sets this horseback riding company aside as you mount your favorite horse and gallop away happily. They have longer and shorter rides. You should wear jeans, sneakers, or boots for safety.
Only friendly and knowledgeable people work here. Hence, you will be super-impressed by the service quality and kindness you receive. You wouldn’t be happier after the experience.
Address: 4151 Sand Flat Rd, Oakland, MD 21550, United States
14. GunPowder Stables
GunPowder Stables is a family-owned horse farm in Maryland, nestled in a quiet valley over 10 acres. It allows fun lovers to share their love and appreciation for horseback riding. It is a great place to spend your leisure time.
They offer ring and trail pony rides for young ones who enjoy riding on horseback. If you have younger kids passionate about horses and want to grow their horsemanship skills, this is a perfect place to let their energy out.
They will not only ride on ponies, they will be taught vital lessons on how to handle horses. Their staff is enthusiastic about sharing their skills with younger ones, which stands out.
They make the youngest and even most inexperienced child connect with the horses and feel at home. If your child can do this, they can become part of this family and experience the same unbridled exhilaration.
Address: 12025 Philadelphia Rd, Kingsville, MD 21087, United States
15. Piscataway Horse Farm
This working horse farm is family-owned and has been serving residents of Maryland and its environs. The horses on the farm are descendants of the original Piscataway racehorses and are perfect for the game. The owners allow people to tour the farm and learn the history of Piscataway and their horseracing in the city.
Piscataway Horse Farm is a great place to learn about horses. They offer classes on riding lessons. They also offer pony rides and hayrides for visitors who opt for it. They also have different horse-riding trails that vary in difficulty, but a few are suitable for beginners.
Piscataway provides other outdoor activities, including picnic areas, event-hosting spaces, and fishing spots. There are a few spots to eat good food and have fun. This park is a great place to visit all year round. There is always something interesting to keep your memory alive.
Address: 10775 Piscataway Rd, Clinton, MD 20735, United States
16. Clarity Riding
It is all about riding instructions at Clarity Riding for those who want to obtain extra skills in the field. It is a family-friendly riding school and training along Davidsonville, Maryland. The trainers are dedicated to offering the best knowledge to all ages.
Their areas of focus encompass dressage, foxhunting, and gaited horses. Clarity Riding trains you to obtain the right amount of training that kicks you off to join competitions. They teach all aspects of horsemanship, horse care, and sportsmanship to instill kindness and compassion in learners.
It is a great place to take riding lessons on a city tour. You can come for summer camps, intention programs, or other horse-related social and educational training.
Address: 3395 Davidsonville Rd, Davidsonville, MD 21035, United States
Take to exploring other cities of Maryland, check out our list of things to Do in Towson, things to Do in Rockville, and things to do in Kent Island .
Plan Your Trip to Maryland
One of the fun things to do in Maryland is to go on horseback riding. It is not only a great way to spend your spare time, but it also helps to create bonds with people and make friends with strangers.
If you plan to visit the state, the above places are great for riding on horseback or taking some instructive classes about horses.