Horseback Riding in New Hampshire

Horseback riding in New Hampshire takes you off autopilot. You'll relearn the art of tuning in to your surroundings as you anticipate what lies around the next bend in the trail, rather than dreading the next email. Even if you've never ridden a horse, you can make spending time with these strong, sure-footed animals the focus of your vacation. Inns and resorts offering “Ride and Stay” packages include Farm by the River Bed and Breakfast with Stables, the Inn at East Hill Farm, the Franconia Inn, Peep Willow Farm B&B, and the Omni Mount Washington Resort.

Horseback riding and pony rides are among the summer activities offered at two New Hampshire ski areas, as well: Attitash and Black Mountain. And Lakes Region visitors can get into the saddle at Riding in the Clouds, the on-site stable at the historic Castle in the Clouds estate. No experience is necessary, so if you've always wanted to try horseback riding, why not mosey on up to New Hampshire, where marvelous mountain views are an added bonus?

Experienced equestrians hoping to venture out on their own will find welcoming trails at several New Hampshire State Parks, including Bear Brook State Park in Allenstown, Pawtuckaway State Park in Nottingham, and Pisgah State Park, New Hampshire's largest state park, in Winchester. Recreational Rail Trails  are open to horses, too. The New Hampshire Horse & Trail Association maintains a calendar of fun trail-ride events. Bring your horse to New Hampshire and meet other riders who cherish the freedom of taking the reins.