Washington County, NY: A Horse Lover’s Paradise

Nestled in the heart of New York State, Washington County is a haven for horse enthusiasts! With its rolling hills, lush pastures & many miles of trails, this area offers a variety of equine tourism opportunities including horseback riding,  leisurely trail rides and challenging endurance events to enjoy.

Plus, you truly can’t beat our location! The world-famous Saratoga Race Course is just a short drive to the west. And a short drive to the east brings you to the Vermont Summer Festival near Manchester, VT! Both are multi-week, late-summer events that bring together vendors & attendees from all walks of life to celebrate their passion for equestrian sports.

And, the 2024 Belmont Stakes Racing Festival is happening in Saratoga Springs in June! Check out the many local places to stay a short & beautiful drive from the race track.

Of course, not all the action takes place outside our borders! Check out the many neat equine tourism opportunities available within Washington County, NY:

Washington County is home to a network of well over 100 miles of horse trails, offering a variety of terrain and scenery to suit all levels of riders. Whether you’re looking for a gentle walk through the woods or a more challenging ride along mountain trails, you’re sure to find a trail that’s perfect for you. Check out New York DEC’s tips for equine tourism and horseback riding.

For starters, most of the trails within the Lake George Wild Forest in the Adirondack Park are open to horseback riding! This trail system has both single-lane and side-by-side riding options featuring gorgeous vistas overlooking Lake George. And, the Forest’s Dacy Clearing and Upper Hogtown Road parking areas have equestrian mounting platforms to give riders a little boost.

Love riding within an enchanting forest? Mount Tom State Forest, Eldridge Swamp State Forest, Goose Egg State Forest and Batten Kill State Forest all allow horseback riding. However, there are no designated trails or specifically maintained areas.

Or for another fun alternative to explore with your horse, check out the Chestnut Woods State Forest! The forest’s 800 gorgeous acres feature an extensive network of former logging roads now open for recreational activities like horseback riding & hiking.

Throughout the year, Washington County hosts a variety of equestrian events, including horse shows, barrel racing competitions and more! These events are a great way to meet other horse lovers, learn about horsemanship, and have some fun with your horse. Whether you’re an English or Western rider, you’ll find more ways to love the ride in Washington County.

Visit the Washington County Fairgrounds, one of the local hotspot for equine events! During the Washington County Fair in August, there are several competitions and demonstrations showcasing the incredible range & talent of horseback riders.

And during the fall, the Fairgrounds also hosts Gymkhana Under the Lights. This breathtaking event pits riders against one another in a series of speed pattern racing or timed games. You’re probably familiar with the most famous of these events: barrel racing! Most participants are young riders with local 4-H clubs looking to put their horsemanship skills are to the test. Come cheer them on!

For an alternative equine experience, follow the Washington County Draft Animal  Association on Facebook! They’re frequently involved in local events, and their volunteer members offer horse-drawn wagon rides.

And last but not least, the Cambridge Saddle Club has held many horse shows, gymkhanas and trail rides throughout the years, attracting riders of all levels from near and far. Visit in the summer & fall to attend or enter your own horse!

If you’re new to horseback riding or looking to improve your skills, there are a number of riding barns & trainers in Washington County who can help you! They offer lessons for all levels of riders, from beginners to advanced.

Are you looking for an unforgettable trail ride experience? You’ll want to check out 4J Farmm, who offers trail riding throughout the year! Of course, they also offer both traditional private horseback riding lessons & group-based horsemanship sessions, so get your riding helmet on & give ’em a call!

And, there are many more options! Nipper Knolls’ Therapeutic Riding Program helps people of all abilities feel the joy of horsemanship. Additionally, A Dapple A Day Equine Center is a PATH Therapeutic Riding program that also offers natural horsemanship lessons.

If it’s a unique, personalized experience you’re looking for, you’ll want to check out Dancing Horses LLC in Hudson Falls.

If you’re planning to stay in Washington County for an extended period of time, there are several horse boarding facilities that can provide your horse with a comfortable and safe place to stay. These facilities typically offer a variety of services, such as feeding, turnout, and exercise.

And, some local facilities even have indoor riding rings and professional trainers to help you maintain your horse’s peak condition!

Check out Gallup Ridge Farm, who offers both full & rough board with spacious indoor/outdoor arenas! Or, Vertical Farm in Fort Ann is both a training and boarding facility that specializes in Eventing, with an indoor riding ring and horses for lease!

Additionally, Viridian Farm in Fort Edward is a boarding facility that also occasionally hosts riding clinics in their indoor riding ring! And Easton Meadows‘ equine-facilitated learning includes equitation & groundwork lessons, group lessons and more. Give them a call to sign up!

Want More Washington County, NY?

Washington County, NY is a beautiful & welcoming destination for equine enthusiasts of all levels. With its miles of trails, equestrian events, riding lessons, and boarding facilities, the county has everything you need for a memorable horse-riding experience.

So come on down and explore all that Washington County has to offer in the realm of equine tourism! And while you’re here, check out one of our many  interesting local events.