Arkansas has plenty of ways to see its woods, lakes, and canyons, and a few of the best ones come with four legs and a saddle. This list covers seven stables and ranches around the state that run guided trail rides through scenery worth slowing down for. Some rides are short and easygoing, while others sit inside bigger adventure destinations with climbing, ziplines, and cabins.
A few welcome first-timers and kids, and most ask that you book ahead. Whether you are planning a family outing or a quiet outing with friends, there is a ride here that fits the weekend.
1. Arkansas Riding Stables, Hot Springs National Park, AR
Shade is the selling point here. The guided ride runs about 45 minutes through Lake Catherine State Park, along a cool, wooded route off AR-171.
It is set up as a beginner-friendly outing, with well-mannered horses and staff who know the trail. Wildlife sightings are part of the appeal, so keep your eyes open between the trees.
Kids can come along, and an appointment is required, so call 501-262-0777 before heading out. It is a good pick when summer heat makes an open-field ride sound miserable.
2. Mountain Harbor Riding Stable, Mt Ida, AR
Picture a trail ride where the woods open up to lake views. Mountain Harbor Riding Stable offers guided forest rides that follow just that kind of route near Mt Ida.
Riders can expect creek crossings and the chance to spot wildlife such as deer or even a bald eagle. The stable is family-friendly, so it works for a mixed group.
It is open Monday through Saturday from 9 AM to 6 PM and Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM. Details are on the Mountain Harbor Resort website, or call 870-867-3022.
3. Horseshoe Canyon Ranch, Jasper, AR
Most trail rides do not come with a climbing wall made of natural sandstone. Horseshoe Canyon Ranch near Jasper is a bigger adventure destination, so horseback riding sits alongside rock climbing, ziplining, and mountain biking.
The setting is a canyon with bluffs and long views, and the ranch has a dude ranch feel with rustic cabins. There is also a pool and hot tub for after the ride.
Buying tickets in advance is recommended. Call 800-480-9635 or check the ranch website to plan a stay that mixes riding with the other activities.
4. Keels Creek Trail Rides, Eureka Springs, AR
A creek crossing is the highlight that stands out on this ride. Keels Creek Trail Rides, just outside Eureka Springs, runs scenic trails that suit riders of every experience level.
Guides lead the way on calm, well-trained horses, which makes it a smart choice for novices. Kids are welcome too.
The stable is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, and appointments are required. Call 479-244-5138 or visit the website to reserve a time.
5. OK Trading Post, Mountain View, AR
Stop for souvenirs, then saddle up. OK Trading Post on AR-14 pairs a gift shop with guided trail rides in the Ozark foothills near Mountain View.
Guides are knowledgeable and the horses are well behaved, which helps first-time riders settle in. Children can ride as well.
Hours run daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, and appointments are required. Call 870-585-2217 or check the website to book.
6. Flying Q, Fayetteville, AR
Photo stops are easy to come by on this one. Flying Q, near Lake Sequoyah in Fayetteville, runs an easygoing guided trail ride with plenty of spots to pause for pictures.
It also offers lessons, and the well-trained horses make it friendly for beginners. Kids are welcome, and on-site parking is available.
Hours are daily from 11 AM to 5 PM. Appointments are required and cannot be booked online, so call 479-283-6788.
7. Barnyard Friends & Stables, Morrilton, AR
Short on time, or riding with little ones? The trail ride here lasts about 30 minutes and costs $21, and it runs through the woods on flat ground that suits kids and adults.
Barnyard Friends & Stables also has a petting zoo, so there are other animals to meet in the barn. Staff keep safety front and center, and the horses are well cared for.
Hours are Tuesday through Friday from 10 AM to 2 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 3 PM. It is closed Monday. Appointments are required and can be made online or by calling 501-208-7287.
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