Top 10 Riding Trails for Horseback Riding in Minnesota

Trails and Parks to Explore:

Minnesota is a beautiful state with a rich landscape, and it's an ideal destination for horseback riding enthusiasts. From the scenic trails to the expansive parks, there is something for every level of rider. In this blog, we will explore some of the best places to go horseback riding in Minnesota.

Here are ten popular riding trails for horseback riding in Minnesota:

1. Root River State Trail: Located in southeastern Minnesota, this scenic trail stretches for 42 miles and offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, farmland, and the Root River.

2. Central Lakes State Trail: Spanning 55 miles, this trail runs through picturesque countryside, woodlands, and alongside numerous lakes in central Minnesota.

3. Willard Munger State Trail: This extensive trail covers 70 miles and passes through forests, over rivers, and along the shores of Lake Superior, offering stunning natural beauty.

4. Lake Maria State Park: With over 14 miles of horseback riding trails, Lake Maria State Park provides a peaceful and serene riding experience through woods, prairies, and along lakeshores.

5. Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area: Known for its mountain biking trails, Cuyuna also offers over 25 miles of horseback riding trails that wind through scenic landscapes and old mining pits.

6. Chengwatana State Forest: Located in east-central Minnesota, this forest offers over 50 miles of horseback riding trails that meander through lush woodlands and along the beautiful St. Croix River.

7. Jay Cooke State Park: Situated on the St. Louis River, this park offers approximately 50 miles of trails that traverse rocky gorges, lush forests, and provide breathtaking views of waterfalls.

8. Iron Range Off-Highway Vehicle State Recreation Area: While primarily known for off-road vehicles, this recreation area also has designated horseback riding trails, allowing equestrians to explore the rugged terrain.

9. Minnesota Valley State Recreation Area: Offering over 20 miles of horseback riding trails, this recreation area follows the Minnesota River, providing picturesque views of the river valley and its wildlife.

10. Wild River State Park: Located along the St. Croix River, this park boasts 35 miles of horseback riding trails that wind through prairies, woodlands, and offer scenic views of the river.

Remember to check with each location for any specific regulations or permits required for horseback riding, and always practice responsible trail etiquette and safety precautions while enjoying these trails.

Three Rivers Park District The Three Rivers Park District is located in Hennepin County, and it's a great place to go horseback riding. The district offers several parks, including the Carver Park Reserve, Lake Rebecca Park Reserve, and Crow-Hassan Park Reserve. These parks offer miles of trails that wind through woods, wetlands, and grasslands. Riders can enjoy the scenic views of these natural landscapes while exploring the trails.

Carver County Parks Carver County is another great option for horseback riding. The park system offers several parks, including the Lake Minnewashta Regional Park, Baylor Regional Park, and Carver Park Reserve. These parks offer trails that range from easy to difficult, making them perfect for riders of all levels. Riders can take in the beautiful views of the lakes, forests, and rolling hills while exploring the trails.

Washington County Parks Washington County is located in the southeastern part of the state, and it's home to several parks that offer great horseback riding trails. The St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park, Pine Point Regional Park, and Lake Elmo Park Reserve all offer miles of trails that wind through beautiful scenery, including rolling hills, forests, and rivers.

Dakota County Parks Dakota County is located in the southeastern part of the state, and it offers several parks that are great for horseback riding. The Lebanon Hills Regional Park and the Vermillion Highlands Wildlife Management Area both offer miles of trails that wind through wooded areas, hills, and wetlands.

Anoka County Parks Anoka County is located in the northern part of the state, and it's home to several parks that offer great horseback riding trails. The Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve and Bunker Hills Regional Park offer trails that wind through wooded areas, wetlands, and open fields.

You can find maps of the parks and trails mentioned in the previous blog at the following websites:

1. Three Rivers Park District/Hennepin County: Maps of the Carver Park Reserve, Lake Rebecca Park Reserve, and Crow-Hassan Park Reserve can be found on the Three Rivers Park District website at https://www.threeriversparks.org/trails.

2. Carver County Parks: Maps of the Lake Minnewashta Regional Park, Baylor Regional Park, and Carver Park Reserve can be found on the Carver County Parks website at https://www.co.carver.mn.us/departments/PW/parks-recreation/trail-maps.

3. Washington County Parks: Maps of the St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park, Pine Point Regional Park, and Lake Elmo Park Reserve can be found on the Washington County Parks website at https://www.co.washington.mn.us/753/Maps.

4. Dakota County Parks: Maps of the Lebanon Hills Regional Park and the Vermillion Highlands Wildlife Management Area can be found on the Dakota County Parks website at https://www.co.dakota.mn.us/parks.

5. Anoka County Parks: Maps of the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve and Bunker Hills Regional Park can be found on the Anoka County Parks website at https://www.anokacounty.us/344/Maps.

6. Itasca State Park: Maps of the park can be found on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website at https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/park.html?id=spk00168#homepage.

7. Bear Head Lake State Park: Maps of the park can be found on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website at https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/park.html?id=spk00205#homepage.

8. Tettegouche State Park: Maps of the park can be found on the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website at https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/park.html?id=spk00271#homepage.

***It's always a good idea to consult the park or trail map before heading out on a ride to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Minnesota offers a wealth of opportunities for horseback riding enthusiasts. From the parks to the trails, there are so many beautiful places to explore on horseback. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a beginner, there is something for everyone in Minnesota. So saddle up and hit the trails, and experience the beauty and excitement of horseback riding in Minnesota

Looking to buy or Sell a property? I'm always here to help. You can Contact Me by clicking here or simply call or text me at 612-741-8822

Searching for a hobby farm in Minnesota? Start your Search Here! Once you start your search you can customize the search to find properties that best fit your needs and budget.  

Check out my buyers moving tips & checklists