There’s something truly grounding about riding a horse through nature — no traffic, no phones buzzing, just the rhythm of hooves and the wind in your face. While the U.S. is full of famous horseback riding destinations, there’s a whole other world of hidden spots that barely make it to the guidebooks. These are the trails where the views are just as jaw-dropping, but the crowds are nowhere to be found.
Whether you’ve been riding for years or you’re just getting into it, exploring these lesser-known spots lets you see America in a raw, unfiltered way. From canyon trails in Wyoming to the quiet meadows of Missouri, each place has its own kind of magic — and it’s the kind you can’t always find in brochures. So, if you're ready to saddle up and try something different, these hidden horseback riding spots are calling your name.
This one’s a favorite among trail riders in the know. Tucked into the borderlands of Tennessee and Kentucky, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area has more than 180 miles of horse-friendly trails — and very few tourists.
You’ll ride through lush forests, sandstone cliffs, and rolling hills that go on forever. The vibe here is peaceful, rustic, and real. It’s also super welcoming to equestrians, with horse camps, stables, and friendly folks who are happy to point you toward the best trail loops. It’s a great place to unplug and feel like you’re part of the land.
Ever wanted to ride where cavalry soldiers once trained? Fort Robinson lets you do just that — and a lot more. Set against the dramatic but lesser-known Pine Ridge scenery of Nebraska, this historic site has become a quiet haven for trail riders.
The park has plenty of open terrain, from grassy hills to rocky canyons, and it’s steeped in Wild West history. You can ride on your own or join guided trail rides. Either way, it’s a cool blend of history and nature without the heavy foot traffic you’d get at bigger parks.
Now, this is where things get really wild — in the best way. The Crazy Mountains in Montana are like a secret chapter in an old western novel. Towering, snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes that reflect the sky, and rugged trails that make your ride feel like an epic adventure.
They’re not as visited as other areas in Montana, which is a huge bonus. You can really lose yourself out here — in the silence, in the views, in the moment. It’s not just beautiful, it’s deeply grounding. If you’re looking for that “wow, I can’t believe this exists” kind of ride, this is it.
And while you're exploring the wide-open beauty of Montana, don't miss the chance to check out more incredible horseback riding places scattered across the state — each one with its own charm, terrain, and peaceful trail network waiting to be discovered.
If you’ve never heard of Sinks Canyon, you’re not alone — and that’s exactly what makes it special. Located near Lander, Wyoming, this canyon offers rugged, scenic trails where the Popo Agie River literally disappears underground (yep, really) before bubbling up again downstream.
The riding here is varied — think narrow pine-forest paths, rocky overlooks, and peaceful meadows. It’s a great spot for riders who like a little variety and a little mystery. Bonus: there’s usually hardly anyone around.
Custer State Park is a little more known, but it still flies under the radar for a lot of horseback riders. And honestly? That’s a good thing. With over 70,000 acres of wide-open grasslands and pine-covered hills, this park gives off serious “ride into the sunset” vibes.
One of the coolest things about Custer is that you might run into a bison herd while riding — no big deal, just several tons of wild animals hanging out near your trail. The park has designated riding trails, guided rides, and backcountry options for experienced riders.
While everyone else is crowding into Zion or Arches, you can quietly trot through Capitol Reef — Utah’s red rock wonderland that’s still delightfully underappreciated.
This park is full of dramatic cliffs, hidden canyons, and colorful rock formations. Horseback riding gives you a whole new perspective here, especially on some of the lesser-used trails where it’s just you, your horse, and the sound of desert silence.
Think Florida is just beaches and theme parks? Think again. Head a bit inland and you’ll hit Ocala National Forest — one of the most underrated riding areas in the Southeast.
Here, the trails wind through sand pine scrub, mossy oaks, and freshwater springs so clear you can see the bottom. With over 100 miles of designated horse trails, Ocala is perfect for easy, relaxing rides. It's also ideal if you’re escaping colder weather in the winter months.
This place is seriously unique. Set in the northeastern corner of California, Lassen Volcanic National Park mixes alpine meadows with lava beds and bubbling hot springs — all of which you can see from horseback.
Few people ride here, which is surprising given how stunning the trails are. If you’re up for it, you can even camp overnight with your horse in designated spots and wake up surrounded by a landscape that looks like another planet.
The Ozarks might not have towering mountains, but don’t underestimate their beauty. This lush, rolling region in Missouri is crisscrossed with spring-fed rivers, waterfalls, and trails that are absolutely perfect for horseback riding.
Riding here feels slow in the best way. The terrain is gentle, the water’s crystal-clear, and the forests are thick with wildlife and birdsong. It’s a great spot if you want an easygoing, nature-filled ride that feels like a deep breath.
Last but definitely not least, the Gila Wilderness is pure, unfiltered backcountry. No roads. No noise. Just miles and miles of untouched wilderness in southern New Mexico — perfect for experienced riders who crave true solitude.
You’ll ride past cliffs, canyons, hot springs, and through some of the oldest protected wilderness in the country. It’s remote and wild in every sense of the word, and you’re more likely to spot elk or a mountain lion than another person. If that kind of quiet adventure speaks to you, Gila is calling.
Sometimes, the best trails aren’t the ones with signs or souvenir shops — they’re the ones you hear about in hushed conversations around the campfire. These hidden horseback riding spots offer something rare: the chance to connect with nature without distraction, to bond with your horse on a quiet trail, and to see a part of America that still feels wild.
So if you’ve been craving an adventure that’s a little more off the grid, try one of these places. You might just discover a new favorite trail — and maybe a new side of yourself, too.
