Lexington, Kentucky is home to some of the most acclaimed thoroughbred horse farms in the United States, along with regional cuisine and settings for invigorating outings. The five counties surrounding Lexington are home to 450 thoroughbred farms, according to travel expert Peter Greenberg.
It's no surprise, then, that the area is popular for recreational horseback riding. Whether you're a beginner or an accomplished equestrian, Lexington offers a riding stable for every taste and level of skill.
Just for Fun
If you're an experienced rider, Alder Blackburn suggests booking at Whispering Woods Riding Stable. Blackburn is the owner of Rose Hill Inn, a bed-and-breakfast at the center of thoroughbred farm country. He sends moderately experienced riders to Big Red Stables in Harrodsburg and beginners and children to Deer Run Stable in Richmond. All offer wooded trail rides and the potential to see wildlife, including deer, turkeys and foxes.
Getting Serious
Champagne Run is a professional equestrian center that caters to a broad base of loyal clients, from beginners to international champions. In business for more than 18 years, the facility's website boasts that it can arrange everything from a formal fox hunt to a casual trail ride safe for children.
Lexington Riding Academy touts itself as one of the state's premier riding and training facilities. It offers lessons in both English saddle seat and western saddle.
Education
At the heart of Kentucky bluegrass country, Pine Knoll Center for Integrated Horsemanship is dedicated to the preservation and teaching of the equestrian arts, including a commitment to the well-being and optimal performance of both horse and rider.
Pine Knoll Center is near two other top attractions, Kentucky Horse Park and Masterson Station Equestrian Center. The area immediately surrounding Pine Knoll is home to some of the most exclusive and successful thoroughbred farms in the United States, according to Pine Knoll's website.
Overnight Stay
Combine a day or two of horseback riding with a night or two at Rose Hill Inn, or opt for the Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa. Bargain hunters can choose from three Best Western hotels and other budget brands.
After breakfast, visit the Kentucky Horse Park or enjoy a self-guided driving tour of the area's best thoroughbred farms. For a more personalized experience, Blackburn recommends Unbridled Tours, which creates a customized itinerary based on your specific interests. A less well-known pastime, Blackburn says, is a tour of the Bourbon Trail, the six whiskey distilleries that populate the area, or you can enjoy more outdoor recreation by booking a trip down Elkhorn Creek with Canoe Kentucky.
Climate
The relatively mild Kentucky climate means you can enjoy horseback for most of the year. Most riding stables are open year-round. The average daily high temperature is in the low 40s in December and February only drops below 40 F January, according to ClimateZone. In summer, daytime highs are mostly in the low to mid-80s. For most of the year, Lexington gets moderate rainfall. The rainiest months are May and July. On average, the area gets relatively light snowfall from December to March.
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