After conducting extensive research, I found that certain trails at Riverside State Park are horse-friendly. Encompassing nearly 14,000 acres along the Spokane and Little Spokane Rivers just a few miles northwest of downtown Spokane, Riverside State Park is Washington's largest state park, offering numerous options for horseback riders. Given the extensive trail system, riders can experience diverse terrain, beautiful landscapes, and wildlife sightings.
1. **Equestrian Area Trail:** Featuring a natural surface path through the dense forest, this trail is specifically designed to accommodate equestrians. It includes 25 miles of multi-use trails, where horses are allowed.
2. **Centennial Trail:** Stretching along the Spokane River for close to 40 miles, from Nine Mile Falls to the Idaho border, the Centennial Trail is a paved, multi-use pathway where horseback riding is permitted. This well-maintained, scenic trail provides excellent river views.
3. **Equestrian Camp Trail:** Not only does Riverside State Park offer trails for horseback riding, but it also has an equestrian camp. The chalky, hardpacked trails around this area are suitable for horse riding.
4. **Trail 25:** Connecting the Bowl and Pitcher area to the Seven Mile area, Trail 25 offers riders the opportunity to canter alongside the Spokane River.
5. **Pine Bluff Trail:** A combination of single-track and wider trails, the Pine Bluff Trail provides riders with a chance to enjoy beautiful views of the Spokane River.
These are just a few of the excellent options available for horseback riders in Riverside State Park. Always check the current park regulations and conditions before planning your ride, as some trails might be temporarily closed for maintenance or environmental recovery.
Please note that horse trailers can be parked at the Equestrian Camp, Horse Staging Area in the Seven Mile Area, and the Wilber Trailhead across from the campground. Horses are not allowed in picnic areas, beaches, or on the park roads.
Remember to exercise good trail etiquette and yield the right of way to hikers and uphill traffic, and to clean up after your horse to maintain these trails for the enjoyment of future riders. Enjoy the ride!
Sources:
1. Riverside State Park (n.d.). Parks.Wa.Gov. https://parks.state.wa.us/573/Riverside
2. Riverside State Park (n.d.). Washington Trails Association. https://www.wta.org/go-outside/parks/riverside-state-park
NOTE: This article was researched and written by AI for SEO purposes only and isn't generally meant for human consumption - although a lot of the information can be helpful 99% of the time. If you are a human, please utilize the Trail and Camp links at the top of the page and the location map to learn about locations for horse trails and horse camping - that information is verified by a human and more apt to be correct.... althought human error is a thing too. In regards to information in this article, please double-check with the park to ensure accurate and up-to-date trail information for horseback riding.