Giddy up! If you’re looking for a great way to unwind and enjoy the outdoors, Suburban Cook County offers some unexpectedly peaceful and scenic places to go horseback riding.
You might be surprised to learn just how many horse trails are tucked away in the area. The Forest Preserves of Cook County boast more than 200 miles of multi-use trails, more than two dozen of which are equestrian-friendly. These trails wind through wooded areas, prairies and wetlands, offering a refreshing escape from city life.
Find out what you need to know to savor a ride through our wonderful forest preserves. See the sights from a different viewpoint and review reminders about minding manners as part of this friendly and appealing community.
Horse Trails in Suburban Cook County
Views from a saddle hit different. Whether you’re new to horseback riding or you’ve been doing it for ages, you’ll likely find a welcoming atmosphere for equestrian activities in the Forest Preserves. Many area stables are conveniently adjacent to trails for easy access to walk, trot or canter while your senses take in the fresh air and all the seasonal changes of the landscape.
The Forest Preserves are always open to the public — every day, all year round from sunrise to sunset. Horse owners can even choose from eighteen designated lots for easy in-and-out horse trailer parking. But note once the sun goes down, horse trailers and vehicles may not stay parked in the preserves overnight.
Seeing the Sights
A popular spot for horseback riding is the Palos Trail System. It’s a favorite among local riders with dense forests, rolling hills and well-marked paths. Trails here are peaceful, with enough elevation changes to keep things interesting but not too challenging for most horses and riders.
Horizon Farm, a former equestrian estate, is a relatively new addition to the Forest Preserves. The property covers nearly 400 acres and features meadows, wetlands and small streams, as well as open habitat for grassland birds. A series of unpaved trails connect Horizon Farm and Spring Lake and lead you into a 560-acre mosaic of woodlands, prairie, marsh, fen, old field plant communities and two glacial lakes.
Check out the Sag Valley Trail Systems’ miles of looping and connecting unpaved trails taking you to some of the most remote areas of Cook County. Mainly shaded, a wide path with crushed gravel passes through serene woodland scenes, beside streams, and across bridges.
What You Need to Know
Every rider who uses trails, driveways and paths within the Forest Preserves must have either a Day Pass (for one-day outings) or Rider’s License. Both are affordable and flexible for those who plan to ride a horse on any of these trails but who don’t need a Horse Tag. You can purchase a Day Pass or 1-year license ($5 for residents and non-residents; 2-year pass for $10) online, by mail or in person at Forest Preserves General Headquarters (good through June 30 each year).
Horses need their own easy registration, too. Each one must possess the appropriate Forest Preserves Horse Tag. The Horse Tag must be affixed to the left-hand side of the bridle or the saddle and be clearly visible.
Check out the web map to confirm where you can ride and use official, marked trails. Horse riders are prohibited from riding off-trail or on unofficial trails. Off-trail and unofficial trail use — even by walkers and runners — damages plant and wildlife habitats, so avoid using wet trails and muddy sections, too.
Trail Rules and Etiquette
What’s great about riding in Suburban Cook County is the sense of community among local equestrians. Just remember you are sharing these beautiful outdoors spaces with other humans and animals. Brush up on your manners with Share the Trail tips for people on foot, on wheels or on hooves so that everyone will have a safe and fun day out.
It’s best to stay to the right and single file whenever possible. Travel at a safe speed, keep the trail clear, and pay attention to trail signs which can alert you to hazards or busy areas ahead. To be sure you don’t block others always move to the side of the trail before stopping.
While walkers and runners must yield to equestrians, you should keep an eye out for others when you ride and pass safely with an audible “howdy” or warning. Remember to be polite and courteous as these multi-use trails are for everyone to enjoy.