There’s no better way to explore Oregon than winding through rivers, forests and fields on horseback.
Horseback Riding Near Wilsonville
Several gorgeous BYOH (Bring Your Own Horse) trails pepper the area, each a unique slice of the Willamette Valley. Milo McIver State Park is a little-known gem with a trail that wanders for seven miles along the banks of the Clackamas River and through forests and fields near Estacada. The trail runs in a figure-8 and has optional obstacles along the way to improve your horse’s confidence and add variety to your riding.
Fifteen miles from downtown Portland is a 658-acre urban oasis with 3.5 miles of horse trails. Horseback riding at Tryon Creek State Natural Area is a time-honored tradition and local equestrians have fought to keep it a hallowed spot for riding. A lush forest canopy shades your journey to the creek that flows through the middle of the park.
In the heart of horse country is Willamette Mission State Park. Seven miles of trails lead you through acres of woodlands, meadows, riverbanks, farmland and filbert groves. The park also offers an overnight horse camp for those who want to stay a day or two.
Trot through the state of Oregon’s “crown jewel” of parks on horseback. Silver Falls State Park, home to 10 wow-worthy waterfalls and only 37 miles from Wilsonville, has 35 miles of backcountry trails made for hooves and is beautiful any time of the year (even in the rain).
Horseback Riding Lessons with Private Trail Access
If you haven’t sat in a saddle since you were six, there are several riding stables and schools in Wilsonville with learn-to-ride programs. Wilsonville Equestrian Center offers private and group lessons for riders of all ages and levels in a serene 23-acre setting. When you’re ready to hit the trails, the Center can organize the perfect trail outing. Got littles? Enroll them in a fun-filled week at horse camp, complete with daily riding lessons, arts and crafts and an end-of-week horse show.
For those interested in hunter/jumper lessons, check out Goin Places Riding School at Sherwood Forest Equestrian Center. The learn-to-ride program is open to everyone and provides a solid foundation in riding and horsemanship.
Saddle Up & Sip
Sip, saddle and ride your way through Oregon wine country on a guided horseback tour. Wander the famous red hills of Dundee. Enjoy the breathtaking countryside as you wind your way between the vines and enjoy delicious wines at each stop. Make plans to imbibe at the annual Field & Vine’s Dinner in the Field summer wine dinner at the illustrious Hunter Creek Farm & Equestrian Park.
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Have questions about the best places to ride horses in Wilsonville? Contact us and we’ll point you in the right direction.