The Florida Panhandle consists of a 200-mile-long strip of land in Florida's Upper Northwest. Horseback riding, also referred to as equestrianism, is a popular sport in Florida's Panhandle, because of the area's horse-friendly landscapes. Horse enthusiasts can ride horses along the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, trot over low rolling hills of the valley, and traverse lowland trails through hardwood forests of the Panhandle's interior.
Florida Panhandle Landscapes
To the south of Florida's Panhandle lies the East Gulf Coastal Plain area; its southern most boundary is the Gulf of Mexico. The coast is flanked by several inlet areas, including Choctawhatchee Bay, West Bay, and Pensacola Bay, all of which offer horseback riding trails along their perimeters.
Horseback riding in Florida's uplands is also popular, and there are a number of recreational areas, such as the Blackwater River State Forest in Holt, the Florida Caverns State Park in Marianna, and the Ecofina River State Park in Lamont, that cater to the equestrianism.
Types of Horseback Riding
There are two types or styles of horseback riding, English and Western. Most recreational horseback riding in the Florida Panhandle is done using the Western style. This type of riding is commonly used on trail and tour riding.
Horseback Riding Equipment and Gear
There are several pieces of equipment and gear that are used in horseback riding. The riding equipment used to direct the horse and carry a rider is called tack. Tack consists of a bridle, reins, a bit or hackamore, a saddle and saddle pad. Horseback riding can be rigorous, and it is important to wear the appropriate gear. Riders should have a pair of sturdy shoes with heels like cowboy boots, which prevent feet from slipping through the stirrup, a hat to block the sun, long pants and a pair of sturdy gloves.
Horseback Riding Tours and Trails
There are a number stables that offer horseback riding tours, and areas that have trails in the Florida Panhandle.
The Seaside Stables in Santa Rosa Beach is a 12-acre farm that offers one and two hour guided trail rides. Call 850-622-2202 for more details.
Two Bit Stable out of Cape San Blas features horseback rides along the beach. Contact 850-227-4744 for inquiries.
Florida State Parks has a number of state recreation areas that offer equestrian trails. Areas such as Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park in Tallahassee, the Econfina River State Park in Lamont and the Florida Caverns State Park in Marianna. For visitor information call 850-245-2157.
Horseback Riding Lessons
The Bit-n-Heaven Stables in Jay offers horseback riding lessons for beginner, intermediate and advanced riders in their indoor and outdoor arenas. They also host trail rides. Call 850-675-6522.
Sandy Creek stables in Santa Rosa Beach give adults and children riding lessons on their 150-acre ranch. For information call 850-419-3937.
The Smiling W Stables out of Panama City lease horses and give riding lessons in either the western or English seats. Call 850-769-7766 for further information.
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