Title: Top Horse-friendly Trails in San Isabel National Forest, Colorado
Introduction
Calling all equestrians! If you've got a passion for horseback riding and the great outdoors, then San Isabel National Forest in beautiful Colorado is the perfect place to combine these interests. Here, we've compiled a list of horse-friendly trails within this stunning wilderness. Enjoy!
1. Rainbow Trail
Running a whopping 110 miles, the Rainbow Trail is a gem for horse riders. Nestled against the eastern boundary of San Isabel National Forest, the trail passes through multiple environments from sagebrush valleys to alpine forests. Be sure to check individual trailheads for specific horse trailer parking.
2. Wilderness Loop Trail
The Wilderness Loop Trail is a popular 12.7-mile hike in the La Garita Wilderness area. It's also open to horseback riders who fancy a leisurely trek through stunning natural surroundings. The terrain is accessible and offers a moderately challenging ride even for novice riders.
3. Bear Lake Trail
With a length of 2.9 miles, Bear Lake Trail is relatively short but incredibly picturesque. Meandering through the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness, it provides arresting views of aspen fields and Bear Lake itself. The trail is quite tranquil, making it an ideal choice for a peaceful horse ride.
4. Colorado Trail, Section 14
This significant section of the Colorado Trail runs for 22.8 miles through San Isabel National Forest. With habitats ranging from mountainous areas to lush valleys, there's plenty to keep horse riders engaged. For multi-day trips, camping is possible at different points along the trail.
5. Venable-Comanche National Recreation Trail
The Venable-Comanche trail is a loop route taking in Venable Falls, Comanche Lake and Phantom Terrace. It's roughly 12.4 miles long and is open for horse riding. Riders can expect a more challenging ride due to elevation changes and can appreciate beautiful alpine scenery along the way.
6. Hermit Peak Trail
The 8.6-mile Hermit Peak Trail is a lesser-known option for horseback riders, but it offers a tranquil ride through the forest with fantastic views of the Sangre de Cristo Range. Do remember that high-clearance vehicles are necessary for Horse Camp trailhead access.
Conclusion
San Isabel National Forest is an equestrian's paradise with a wide range of trails that welcome horse riders. Next time you're planning an outdoor adventure, why not saddle up and explore the forest's natural beauty right from your horse's back?
**Sources**
1. Rainbow Trail. U.S. Forest Service. website(https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/psicc/recarea/?recid=12470)
2. Wilderness Loop Trail. San Isabel National Forest. website(https://www.fs.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsinternet/cs/recarea?ss=110308&navtype=BROWSEBYSUBJECT&cid=FSE_003738&navid=110160000000000&pnavid=110000000000000&position=generalinfo&recid=12561&ttype=recarea&pname=Wilderness%20Loop%20Trail%20-%20)
3. Bear Lake Trail. Hiking Project. website(https://www.hikingproject.com/trail/7001720/bear-lake-trail)
4. Colorado Trail, Section 14. Colorado Trail Foundation. website(https://coloradotrail.org/trail/sections/)
5. Venable-Comanche Trail. AllTrails. website(https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/venable-comanche-nrt-loop)
6. Hermit Peak Trail. U.S. Forest Service. website(https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/psicc/recarea/?recid=37269)
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.