WHAT TO EXPECT
Make plans now to meet some new friends, breathe some clean fresh air, and enjoy some spectacular scenery. If taking a short ride, you will be riding on scenic horse trails within the boundaries of the beautiful Canaan Valley Resort State Park, home to an abundance of wildlife, including white-tailed deer and black bear which can be seen in their natural habitat. There are frequent wildlife sightings and photo opportunities along the trail as you ride through wooded forests and mountain meadows to vantage points near Bald Knob . These trails are used only for riding horses, and provide spectacular views of Canaan Valley - the highest valley east of the Mississippi River. An experienced trail guide will lead your journey and answer any questions you may have along the way. Longer rides explore more of the Canaan Valley area.

Our equipment and tack are well maintained and fitted to the individual horses. We use western tack and saddles. All equipment is inspected on a daily basis and repaired or replaced as necessary. We also have mounting blocks for your convenience and safety.

Riding groups differ in size from 1 to 20 riders, but the average group is around 5-10 people. Many customers have never ridden horses before, but return from their ride feeling comfortable in the saddle. If you have never ridden a horse before, or have never ridden with western tack or saddle, do not worry. Your guide will show you what you need to know and give you pointers during the ride.

No running or racing of horses is allowed.

No smoking is allowed in or around the stable or hay storage areas.

All horses are properly cared for, regularly exercised and generally well suited for use with novice riders. Sick, lame, undernourished or ill tempered horses are NOT used on trail rides.

Customers may ride in whatever clothing and footwear most comfortable to you, but we do recommend long pants and closed-toe shoes with heels (avoid sandals). Don’t forget to dress warmly for cooler temperatures and bring along your sunscreen when necessary. Please don’t wear hats without chin straps on windy days!

AGE AND WEIGHT RESTRICTIONS
* Children 6 years and older may go on 1 hour and 1-1/2 hour trail rides only.
* Children 12 years and older may go on All Day Rides
* All children must ride their own horse - no double riders will be allowed on any trail rides!
* We have hand - led horse rides available for children age 6 and under. Cost is $5.
* Weight limit for trail horses is 260 lbs. Larger persons may inquire about riding our mule for 1 hour and 1-1/2 hour trail rides only.

OUR SEASONS
What is the best time of year to come? The fact is, it would be very difficult to choose one season over the other.

Springtime: Our springtime is usually April and May. The trees and flowers are coming out and the weather can be both warm and cool. It’s a fresh and wonderful time to ride horses in Canaan Valley. We sometimes still have snow in the Spring due to our high elevation.

Summer: During the summer, the mountain wildflowers and butterflies abound. The berries and apples ripen in the area, causing frequent sightings of black bear. Great summer weather, with temperatures usually in the mid 80s, make Canaan Valley the best place on earth to spend the summer months - especially on horseback! We most always have a breeze - even on the warmest days.

Fall: September begins the Fall season in Canaan Valley, with colors usually peaking in late September or early October. The foliage is beautiful during the Fall and the riding is outstanding. Nights are cooler, but afternoon temperatures are usually nice and warm. As Fall progresses, the days get shorter and cooler, but the riding remains quite enjoyable even after the leaves have fallen.

Winter: Snow usually doesn’t start until December, but flurries sometimes arrive sooner. The snow laden branches are quite beautiful from horseback and Winter riding can be very enjoyable, but you must dress appropriately for the elements. Reservations are necessary for winter riding and only 1 hour rides are given during the winter months.