Michigan is a four-season state where many outdoor activities, including horseback riding are enjoyed. There are several stables in the state. Some stables offer scenic guided rides, some cater to children with pony rides and lessons and some are full service with all of the above. From rides along the historic straits of Mackinac to a guided Halloween spooky trail, whatever horseback riding experience you want, you can find it in Michigan.
Western Michigan
A 61-year tradition in the village of New Era on the western side of Michigan, Rainbow Ranch offers a full service equine experience. They will bring ponies to your child's school or local carnival. Visit the ranch for fall color tours, a ride that crosses a river on horseback, or even a horse-drawn sleigh ride in winter.
If you have someone who wishes to ride but is unable, the staff can hook a wagonette to one of the draft horses and lead the group. This option is not wheelchair accessible, but is great for adults with infants or small children or seniors; six average sized adults can be accommodated. The Rainbow Ranch offers group rides and hot dog roasts as well as the one- to two-hour ride options.
Southeast Riding Options
Morrell Equine Services, of Oak Park, Michigan, offers everything from individual riding lessons to a hands-on farm experience for your school or group. A half-day riding adventure in the country is offered as well as a large number of educational experiences and riding opportunities. Family owned and operated, every level of equestrian experience is available with Morrell Equine Services.
Mingle with the Maybury Monsters in October for some extra fun with your ride. Summer camps are offered on weekday mornings from June through August. Horseback rides through scenic Maybury State Park are offered on a first-come first-served basis, but groups of eight or more can make reservations. Girl Scout Horse Fan and Merit Badge programs are serviced by Maybury Riding Stable in Northville. An evening ride topped off with a campfire for a cozy intimate group is offered with an advanced reservation.
Northern Lower Peninsula
An overnight stay in a bunk house is a special treat at Coyote Bill's Ranch in Bellaire. Bring your own horses and use their full facilities or ride a horse they provide. Guided rides, or ride on your own are options. A honeymoon package is available if you want that unique equestrian experience for your trip.
Liberty Valley Ranch in Gaylord adds therapeutic riding to the list of typical equestrian activities offered. Riders with cognitive, emotional or physical disabilities can benefit from this experience led by trained volunteers. Standard lessons, trail rides, summer camps and photo opportunities are available at this full service riding stable.
Upper Peninsula Opportunities
"Not your ordinary trail ride" is the tag line for Wildridge Riding Stables in the eastern part of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Summer rides, fall color tours and winter rides are offered for small groups of up to six. Guided rides through the beautiful scenery of Michigan's Upper Peninsula are the highlight of this equestrian experience.
Cindy's Riding Stable offers guided rides through Mackinac State Historic Park. This stable is located on Mackinac Island, where motor vehicles are not permitted and the horse is king. An excellent way to enjoy the island and all the scenic beauty of this northern Michigan escape. Cindy's offers guided rides, and has a sister company with carriages available for nonriders to enjoy the trip as well.
Something Different
Horseback riding among 240 acres of trails and buffalo give your trip a new twist. At The Buffalo Ranch, a day-long experience of horseback riding, horse care and sight seeing among the buffalo is offered as well as lessons. Riding is a four season experience here, and covered wagon rides are available for nonriders.
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