By Denice Ryan Martin
Grab your boots and your cowboy hat! Wisconsin is home to some of the prettiest horseback riding trails this side of the Mississippi. Combine that with a stay in a luxurious B&B and you’ve got one fun and romantic getaway. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Southeast Wisconsin Horseback Vacations
Close to Milwaukee, Madison and Chicago, Kettle Moraine Forest South Unit is a popular destination for horseback riders, with over 85 miles of equestrian trails through hardwood forests and with many vistas overlooking kettles, oak savanna prairies, and freshwater lakes.
Dream A Horse stable is conveniently near the state forest trailhead. Options include a one-hour trail ride into the forest or the three-hour Eagle trail ride that includes a stop at a local saloon and restaurant. There’s even a corral where you’ll tie up your horse.
Eagle Centre House Bed and Breakfast - Eagle
Soak your saddle-weary bones in an oversized tub at this replica of an 1846 Greek revival style stagecoach inn. Enjoy a full candlelight breakfast in the dining room. You’ll easily slip into a time gone by.
Nearby attractions: Old World Wisconsin; East Troy Electric Railroad Museum
South Central Wisconsin Horseback Vacations
Columbus Carriage House Bed & Breakfast - Columbus
This grand B&B is on the National Registry of Historic Places, offering Victorian accommodations with modern conveniences. Horse owners appreciate the “Bed & Bale” option, offering boarding at the nearby Midwest Equestrian Center. A one-hour Clydesdale Horse Drawn Historic Carriage Tour provides a fascinating architectural tour of the city.
Nearby attraction: Columbus Antique Mall & Museum
Southwest Wisconsin Horseback Vacations
Known as the Driftless Region or the “Land of the Hidden Valleys,” the area, untouched by the ice age glaciers, offers scenic rugged hills and incredible natural beauty.
Homesteaded in 1885, this four generation farm features 12+ miles of groomed horseback riding trails covering beautiful ridges and valleys. Riders choose from 26 gentle, well-trained horses and ponies.
One-hour trail rides through 250 acres of rolling farmland and wooded hills. Features breath-taking views of the Lemonwier River.
Franklin Victorian B&B - Sparta
Just two blocks from friendly downtown Sparta, the Bicycling Capital of America,
this historic brick-red home provides a signature multi-course healthy breakfast to get your riding day started. Large private bathrooms are a plus.
Nearby attractions: Deke Slayton Memorial Space & Bicycle Museum; Danzinger Vineyard; Down a Country Road Amish Tours & Shops
Northwest Wisconsin Horseback Vacations
The ancient Penokee Mountain Range and tranquil Chequamegon National Forest are waiting to be explored by horseback.
Big Spruce Stable - High Bridge
Take a glimpse into the past on trails set in the foothills of the Penokee Mountain Range. A friendly trail guide will lead you on completely wooded pathways and across the gentle Krause Creek, as you wind your way through the quiet forest.
Penokee Mountain Inn - Mason
Rest, recoup and relax at this quiet sanctuary on nearly 80 acres of forested land. Each evening guests enjoy homemade desserts like the “ain’t no such thing as too much chocolate” served with wine or cordials.
Nearby attractions: St. Peter's Dome and Morgan Falls
