Guided horseback trail rides now available at Forest Trails Stables
Ready to take the reins for a scenic ride through DuPage County forests? Longtime equestrian center Forest Trails Stables in Bartlett is now offering 50-minute, guided trail rides for riders aged 8 and up.
The guided, walk-only trail rides through a heavily wooded, scenic trail in Wayne Grove Forest Preserve are offered from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends and select weekdays. Appointments are required and available by calling (630) 774-8648. Rides cost $50 per person, with multi-ride packages available for a discount.
Located on 600 S. Bartlett Road just north of Stearns Road, Forest Trails gives Chicago area residents the chance to enjoy horseback riding in a more central northwest suburban location than many trail riding options. Owned by the same family for 30 years, Forest Trails has earned a reputation for quality care of both horses and people.
"It's becoming harder and harder to find a way to connect families and active people to horses, and trail rides are a great way to make that introduction," said Rita Hankins, Forest Trails owner. "No experience is required, and our trail horses are gentle and good at their jobs. I really wanted to make it easier for people to connect with horses an enjoy the beauty of our woods."
Forest Trails' rides are limited to five riders per outing to ensure safety and provide a more intimate experience. Helmets are available and strongly recommended for adult riders and required for children. Masks are recommended for riders under 12. All aspects of the trail ride, including mounting and dismounting, take place outdoors, and horses provide built-in social distancing, Hankins noted.
For the health and safety of riders and horses, there is a rider weight limit of 225 pounds. Riders must wear long pants and closed-toe shoes. Waivers are required for each rider, and a parent or legal guardian must sign for riders under 18.
Rides cost $50, with a $20 booking deposit. Riders are asked to arrive 10 minutes before the ride departs for paperwork and a tutorial.
Hankins has owned and operated Forest Trails since 1991 and brings a wealth of equestrian experience to riders. She has served as a manager and consultant to boarders for decades, and has successfully competed in a variety of equestrian disciplines, including English pleasure, Western pleasure, and hunter/jumper.
For more information, contact Forest Trails at (630) 774-8648 or forest trails.bartlett@gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/foresttrailsriding.