6 Places in the Shenandoah Valley for Equestrians

Horseback riding is a personally rewarding activity that pays physical and emotional dividends. Plus, the Shenandoah Valley offers some beautiful scenery perfect for exploring on horseback. When our real estate agents want to recharge, they saddle up at these wonderful places around Shenandoah County homes for sale.

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1. Secret Passage Ranch - 321 Spring Mountain Way, Fort Valley, VA 22652
   While Secret Passage Ranch may sound mysterious, its philosophy is warm and welcoming to all. They believe each ride should be a completely personalized experience, so they go the extra mile to satisfy every person's needs. Horses are carefully matched with riders, and trails are chosen to accommodate the least experienced rider in the group. Before hitting the trail, riders are given time in the arena to get acquainted with their horse. Located just 30 minutes from Woodstock homes for sale, the ranch also has a beautiful guest house built in the 1740s that can be booked by the room or by the entire house.
   
   
2. Fort Valley Ranch - 299 S. Fort Valley Rd., Fort Valley, VA 22652
   Do you love exploring new areas? At Fort Valley Ranch, nestled in the Massanutten Mountains near Fort Valley homes for sale, no two rides are ever the same. In addition to trails located on the ranch grounds, riders have access to hundreds of miles of trails in the scenic George Washington National Forest. Choose from one-hour, 90-minute, half-day, or full-day guided horseback rides. Bring your horse or ride on one of theirs. Little ones can get in on the fun with hand-led horse rides. Fort Valley Ranch is open year-round, and reservations are required.
   
   
3. Double H Stable - 5197 Reliance Rd., Front Royal, VA 22630
   With a name that holds echoes of cowboys and the Old West, Double H Stable honors the place horses hold in our national history. Double H, not far from Front Royal homes for sale, has gained recognition from the Washington Post, Boston Globe, and several national publications for the beauty of their grounds and superior riding experiences. Unlike many other riding facilities, trotting and cantering are allowed on the trails that criss-cross their 250 acres. Group and private rides are available, accommodating riders as young as 6.

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4. Jordan Hollow Stables - 657 Pine Grove Rd., Stanley, VA 22851
   When you arrive at Jordan Hollow Stables, just minutes from Stanley homes for sale, you may be greeted by an array of animals. Dogs, goats, roosters, and rabbits are only a few of the critters you might encounter on the grounds. The 90-minute guided rides are offered at a walking pace or a walk/trot pace, based on your personal preference and skill. Ride with a group that shares your level of experience or assemble a private group of family and friends. Surprise your significant other with a private ride for a romantic date night. Jordan Hollow Stables is open year-round, and reservations are required.
   
   
5. North River Gorge Trail - George Washington National Forest
   Many of nature's spectacular features can be seen along the North River Gorge Trail, making it a popular spot for horseback riding. Just under five miles long, the trail winds through the gorge between Lookout and Trimble Mountains. Completing the trail involves fording the river a total of nine times. The trail is rated as easy, with minimal elevation and gentle grades, so it's a good place for beginners to get some saddle time. North Fork connects to the 26-mile Wild Oak Trail, which has a rating of moderate, providing an additional option for riders. Both trails are open year-round, with no fee for use.
   
   
6. Little North Mountain - George Washington National Forest
   Little North Mountain is an eight-mile stretch along the Tuscarora Trail, which was established in the 1960s as an alternative to the iconic Appalachian Trail. Spanning 250 miles, the Tuscarora branches off from the AT near Mathews Arms Campground in Shenandoah National Park, merging back atop Blue Mountain near Duncannon, PA. The Little North Mountain section ascends from Fetzer Gap to the mountain's ridge, then proceeds south to Sheffer Gap. After crossing Cedar Creek, it once again ascends, this time to the ridge of Paddy Mountain. The trail is open year-round, with no fee for use.

Imagine life with the splendors of the Shenandoah Valley surrounding you. Now make that dream a reality when you contact us at Old Dominion Realty.