Lake George, New York, a five-hour car ride from New York City, has year-round outdoor activities including downhill and cross-country skiing, hiking and rock climbing and boating. If you like horseback riding, there are many local options. At dude ranches, you can spend a few nights and have a full range of activities and at stables, you can take a lesson or go on a guided trail ride.
Family Friendly Resort
Roaring Brook Ranch and Tennis Resort, a family friendly resort, has 25 horses with wilderness and trail riding. Rooms, meals and most activities are included, but horseback riding is extra. The resort has indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts and a fitness center. In July, up to two children under the age of 7 stay free in their parents' room.
Year-Round Resort
The year-round family friendly Ridin-Hy Ranch has horseback riding lessons and pony rides for little children. In summer, you can enjoy hay rides and horse-drawn wagon rides; kids can use a playground and burn off energy in a bouncy house. If you seek a lot of activity choices, this place is perfect for you. The lake has swimming, as well as pedal boats, kayaks and row boats. Additional winter activities include an indoor pool, cross country skiing, ice fishing and horse-drawn sleigh rides.
Dude Ranch
The 1000 Acres Ranch Resort, 12 miles from Lake George, has real cowboys who lead trail rides and offer horseback riding lessons. The resort also has three swimming pools and tennis, basketball, volleyball and shuffleboard courts to keep you active out of the saddle. A nine-hole golf course, kayaks and rowboats are also available.
Summer Riding
Saddle Up Stables has trail rides for ages 6 and up and pony rides for younger children--or any child who is not ready for a horse. Special horses for beginners get kids out on trails, and free helmets reassure parents. Reservations are not accepted; just show up between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., daily. Open mid-May until Labor Day.
Year-Round Stable
Circle B Ranch, open daily Memorial Day to Labor Day, is open weekends and holidays year-round and weekdays by appointment. Group and private guided tours are available and you can ride Western-style or English saddle. Trail rides are for anyone age 7 and up; pony rides are an option for younger children. Private horseback riding lessons help you improve your skills.
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