Horseback Riding in the Black Hills

Few things can match horseback riding in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Relax, explore and bask in nature and the picturesque surroundings while seated on the back of a majestic and friendly horse.

Guided Horseback Trail Ride 

Horseback riding near Mount Rushmore gives you the unique opportunity to explore the famous natural surroundings of the area with a guided tour. The vast terrain of the South Dakota trails makes riding in this area exceptional. Join a horseback ride through the renowned Norbeck Wildlife Preserve, which is home to the most beautiful trails. Learn about the area and completely relax on the back of a horse. 

Spend uninterrupted family time on the trails, observe nature in all its splendor, unwind and socialize while connecting with the regal animals that horses are.

Horseback trail riding offers you an active yet relaxing way to explore the area, ensuring you make memories and take the best photos of the unmatched views.

Reserving Your Black Hills Horseback Riding Adventure

You can do several horseback trails and tours through the Black Hill area. One of the best riding adventures includes the trails from Mount Rushmore KOA Resort at Palmer Gulch:

• Exclusive access: The Palmer Gulch Stables is unique because it is the only barn of its kind that holds sole permits to the Norbeck Wildlife Preserve.
• Small groups: Explore the trails within the Black Hills National Forest in small groups of five to eight people, creating the ultimate relaxing experience. 
• Customized tours: Guests can customize the hour to two-hour tours. Select the ride length that best suits your family or party. The stables can also accommodate larger private groups upon request.
• Friendly horses: Take in the magnificent views of the wildlife sanctuary on friendly steeds. Visit and pet the horses before taking them on the trail, getting to know their sweet and special personalities.
• Exploring a wildlife sanctuary: Few horseback riding trails allow you to explore a wildlife sanctuary. Bask in nature, spot birds and other animals and learn more about the area during a guided tour.
• Decades of experience: Palmer Gulch Stables has been offering trail rides for over 60 years and has taken as many as half a million visitors through the Black Hills by horse.
• Premier trail license and permits: The barn possesses a premier trail ride license from the U.S. Forest Service, an access permit for the Black Elk Wilderness Area and a Norbeck Wildlife Preserve permit.
• Simple booking: Reserving your horseback ride is as simple as calling 605-574-3412 or booking online.

Other Horseback Riding Adventures in the Black Hills

Other stables offering a relaxing way to explore the area and the different terrains that make South Dakota special include:

• Rockin’ R Trail Rides: Take a scenic tour through Black Hills National Forest on a pleasant one-hour loop, a lengthier loop through Buckhorn or Aspen Tunnel or an extended three-hour-plus circular trail.
• Sage Meadow Ranch: Learn about horse care, watch a training demonstration, expand your horsemanship abilities and go on a two-hour ranch ride, hour-long canyon ride, half-day ride or full-day adventure.
• Hollingsworth Horses: Traverse a 122-acre ranch, the national forest or the Mickelson Trail on the back of a horse.

Book Your Horseback Riding Trip in Hill City, South Dakota

Start your horseback riding trip by booking a stay at Mount Rushmore KOA Resort at Palmer Gulch. Our campground has its own stables, various activities and amenities on-site to make your holiday exceptional. Relax, have fun and explore the surrounding area from the heart of the Black Hills.

Select the ultimate stay for your horseback riding adventure with traditional tent camping, cozy Deluxe Cabins, Camping Cabins or RV Sites. Saddle up and book your stay at our premier campground today!