When travelers visit a new place, one of their main concerns might be how best to see it. One of the most interesting ways to see a new area is by horseback, and it can also be one of the most fun. Horseback trips are safe, the guides know the area extremely well, and they take great pride in their work.

The Niagara Falls area offers a number of horse stables and riding centers that cater to tourists who wish to have a different view of the region. Rides on various trails are available to riders of all abilities, beginner to expert. If you don’t feel that being in the saddle is right for you, there are opportunities for horse and carriage rides too.

Once you’ve determined the best deals for your stay, consider some of the following horseback outfitters for your adventure in the saddle.

Niagara Riding Stable

With a 33-acre property located in the heart of the Niagara escarpment, Niagara Riding Stable is one of the area’s best. With exceptionally trained horses suited to all riding abilities, Niagara Riding Stable offers visitors one hour trail rides that take place throughout the day.

Riders are able to take in the spectacular scenery of the area, and they can also feel supremely confident, as Niagara Riding Stable’s focus on safety is second to none. Niagara Riding Stable does cater toward beginner and inexperienced riders, so advanced riders may want to consider another establishment.

Cedar Ridge Stables

While this stable is not suitable for those who simply wish to trail ride, experienced riders visiting the Niagara Falls area may want to visit Cedar Ridge Stables for a riding lesson or a group hack.

Cedar Ridge offers private and group lessons and specializes in hunters, jumpers and dressage. They stable several different types of school horses suitable for all riding levels. The nearby Short Hills Conservation Area is open to those riders who have the stable’s permission to trail ride alone.

Cedar Ridge also holds horse shows and clinics throughout the year, as well as group activities for its riders. If you’d like to brush up on your riding skills while in the Niagara area, this is definitely the place to do that.

Horseplay Niagara

With a wide range of rides available, Horseplay Niagara is one of the most popular stables in the region. Horseplay offers more family-specific rides , so those groups with younger children can feel confident that the ride is more tailored to their needs. Horseplay offers beach rides along Lake Erie, and most of their rides also include portions of the Trans-Canada Trail.

Horseplay Niagara offers private rides that allow the guests to customize their riding experience. Those riders who are nervous or hesitant might want to consider this option, as the guide is able to give the riders his or her utmost attention.

Another perk of the private ride is that advanced riders are welcome. These riders are able to customize their rides through varied terrain and have the option to gallop frequently, which is not allowed in the non-private group rides.

Horse and Carriage Rides

For those who would prefer not to be in the saddle at all there is the delightful option of a carriage ride through some of Niagara’s most beautiful areas. The rides vary in length and are available in a few different locations.

A carriage ride through the Niagara Botanical Gardens is available from May through October. Guests can ride in style through a portion of the 99-acre garden complex and have the option to visit the Butterfly Garden as well.

Carriage rides through Queen Victoria Park are available year around, and visitors can delight in the variety of displays available in this urban park setting. Rose gardens, perennial gardens and special features are on offer at different times throughout the year.

Additionally, a horse and carriage ride is the perfect option for a romantic experience, and special reservations can be made for engagements, weddings or anniversaries.

While horseback riding is an exciting activity, it’s even better when you’re riding in an area as beautiful and magnificent as Niagara Falls. Whether it’s a beach ride, a trail ride, a riding lesson or a romantic carriage ride, a horse related experience in Niagara is sure to make your visit one to remember.

Horseback riding image by New Brunswick Tourism on Flickr’s Creative Commons.

Horseback lesson by Ranchseeker on Flickr’s Creative Commons.