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Where To Go Horseback Riding In The Inland Empire

horse back riding 610
(credit: Shutterstock)

(credit: Shutterstock)

Offering a wide range of trails and organizations for horse lovers of all skills levels, the Inland Empire is a great place to experience the western frontier from the comfort of a saddle. Traveling by horse allows everyone from the seasoned pro to novice rider to feel the air, smell the foliage, and see nature's beauty in a way no other mode of transportation can offer.

Norco Horse trails
(Credit: Western Trails Horseback Riding)

Horse Town USA
Norco City Hall
2870 Clark Ave
Norco, CA 92860
(951) 735-3900
www.norco.ca.us

Located in Norco, equestrian riders can explore much of the town on their four legged friends. What's so unique about this city? Times may have changed elsewhere, but here the stores and restaurants offer hitching posts and corrals for residents traveling by horse. Not only will it take you back in time by navigating the town by horse, but riders can spend an afternoon exploring the river too before resting up at a local venue like the Saddle Sore Saloon for a bite to eat or drink.

Baldwin Lake Stables
(credit: Baldwin Lake Stables)

Baldwin Lake Stables
46475 Pioneertown Road
Big Bear City, CA 92314
(909) 585-6482
www.baldwinlakestables.com

Situated on the east end of Big Bear Valley, horse riders can connect with the Pacific Crest Trail, a well-maintained flat surface with some moderate climbs. Popular for the last 25 years, the equestrian remote trails at Baldwin Lake Stables offer riders a sense of peace and tranquility with panoramic views of the valley. In fact, many horseback riders compare the trails in Big Bear Valley to parts of Colorado, Wyoming and Northern Arizona.

Gaits in Grape 2
(credit: Gaits in the Grap)

Gaits In The Grapes
Temecula, CA
(951) 515-9964
www.gaitsinthegrapes.com

Family owned and operated, Gaits In The Grapes specializes in gorgeous Temecula wine country rides. Here, you're invited to ride at your own pace and comfort level. One thing is required though: that you hitch up your saddle and experience the unforgettable trails that wind through beautiful vineyards and hillsides of the Temecula wine country. Offering trained staff, the guides can also create custom rides for each guest based on preference. Gaits in Grapes also offers specials with partners who can provide reputable horse boarding, hotels, resorts, vacation rentals, B&B's, equestrian camping (full hook up & dry), farrier & veterinary care, and more.

SantaRosa horse
(credit: Santa Rosa Reserve)

Santa Rosa Reserve
39400 Clinton Keith Rd
Murrieta, CA 92562
(951) 677-6951
www.rivcoparks.org

Horse and riders will have an easy time on the reserve trails at Santa Rosa Reserve. Located at the southern end of the Santa Ana Mountains in southwest Riverside County near the city of Murrieta, these trails are truly a hidden gem. Offering grassy fields that go for miles, it gives riders a glimpse into the history and ecosystems of the area in addition to the beautiful scenery. The Reserve has over 9000 acres of protected ecosystems with trails marked off for the equestrian riders too.

riding academy
(credit: The Riding Academy)

The Riding Academy In Menifee
30330 Garbani Road
Menifee, CA 92584
(951) 301-9272
www.theridingacademy.net

Family owned and operated, The Riding Academy has served the Menifee Valley for 30 years and continues to create a family-friendly environment that is affordable for riders of all ages. Riders can take lessons in Western and English riding year-round with instructors that are knowledgeable and seasoned in horse riding. Offering convenient lesson times, students will be with experienced lesson horses and certified instructors who teach a unique Equine Science instructional program.

western trails horseback riding
(credit: Western Trails Horseback Riding)

Western Trails Horseback Riding
4203 Corona Ave
Norco, CA 92860
(951) 403-1290
www.ridenorco.com

If you're looking for quality time with your teen or special someone in your life, then Western Trails Horseback Riding in Norco is the place to go. Mount your steed and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Santa Ana River Valley which offers riders the chance to take to the trails and meander through the western countryside gracefully shaded by native California trees and plants. They even offer a gorgeous breakfast ride where you can have a country breakfast before a 70-minute trail excursion through the beautiful countryside. The breakfast includes scrambled eggs, bacon, hash browns, coffee and orange juice.

Michelle Mears-Gerst is a writer in Orange County. You can find her at @sunnynsocal or on Facebook.
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