Saddle up, Dallas! I embarked on a thrilling adventure to discover the best horseback riding experiences that Dallas-Fort Worth has to offer. From serene trail rides through lush landscapes to exhilarating lessons in world-class facilities, I’ve trotted, galloped, and jumped my way through the top equestrian centers in the area. With the wind in my hair and the reins in my hands, I’ve rated each one, not just on the ride, but on the entire equestrian experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or someone who’s never touched a horse, join me on this journey to uncover the crème de la crème of Dallas’ equestrian world. Giddy up, let’s ride into the heart of horseback riding in Dallas!
Ascend Horseback Riding – (9.5/10)
Ascend Horseback Riding, part of the Ascend Camp & Retreat Center in Dallas, offers a unique and personal horseback riding experience. Located on 54 acres of beautiful landscape at the heart of DFW, Ascend provides a one-hour trail ride in its scenic woods, ensuring a private and intimate encounter with nature. The facility is accredited by the American Camp Association and offers a range of other outdoor activities as well.
My Rating: 9.5 out of 10
Google Rating: 4.9 stars out of 286 reviews
Pricing: $80/person on the trails and $40/person in the Corral.
Website URL: Ascend Horseback Riding
Business Address: 5218 Kiwanis Rd, Dallas, TX 75236, United States
Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Phone Number: 469-998-2267
Rocking J Stables – (9/10)
Rocking J Stables, located in the greater Dallas area, offers a comprehensive equestrian experience with riding lessons in Hunter/Jumper & Western Pleasure disciplines, trail rides, and boarding services. Catering to both children and adults, lessons are available for beginner to advanced-level riders. The facility emphasizes safety with a requirement for riding helmets and offers both private and group lessons, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable equestrian experience.
My Rating: 9 out of 10
Google Rating: 4.7 stars out of 36 reviews
Pricing: $100 per one-hour private lesson, $85 per one-hour group lesson, $125 per person for a 2-hour trail ride.
Website URL: Rocking J Stables
Business Address: 2802 South Country Club Road, Garland, TX 75043
Hours of Operation: Lessons and trail rides are available by appointment only.
Phone Number: 214-392-6101
Dallas Equestrian Center – (8/10)
Dallas Equestrian Center is a premier equestrian facility located in the heart of North Dallas. It caters to riders of all skill levels, from advanced competition to beginners. Spanning a massive 300 acres, the center features three covered arenas, two outdoor jumping/riding fields, and has won awards in party planning. It is also home to the SMU Mustangs Equestrian team, making it a distinguished destination for equestrian enthusiasts.
My Rating: 8 out of 10
Google Rating: 4.4 stars out of 21 reviews
Pricing: $125/person for a 1-hour private lesson, $100/person for a 3-person 1-hour group lesson, and $75/person for a 30-minute private lesson.
Website URL: Dallas Equestrian Center
Business Address: 8787 Park Ln Dallas, TX 75231
Hours of Operation: Tuesday to Friday, 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Phone Number: 214-304-5750
Laurel Ridge Stables – (8/10)
Laurel Ridge Stables, established in 2021, is a full-service American Saddlebred training and show facility. Located just 20 minutes east of downtown Dallas, it provides a picturesque setting next to Lake Ray Hubbard. The stables offer a wide range of riding lessons and camp options designed for all levels, from tiny tots to seasoned veterans. Their goal-oriented program incorporates innovative training techniques, making it a perfect place for those looking to develop and improve their equestrian skills.
My Rating: 8 out of 10
Google Rating: 4.8 stars out of 17 reviews
Pricing: Group lessons at $65 per hour, private lessons at $85 for 30 minutes, and mini lessons at $50 (specifically for kids ages 3-5).
Website URL: Laurel Ridge Stables
Business Address: 4317 Dexham Rd, Rowlett, TX 75088
Hours of Operation: Lessons are available by appointment only.
Phone Number: (469) 792-5402
Rockwall Hills Equestrian Center – (8/10)
Rockwall Hills Equestrian Center (RHEC) is a 100-acre premier boarding, training, and lesson facility located in Rockwall, TX, less than 30 minutes from downtown Dallas. It offers a full care stall and pasture boarding and is equipped with a variety of amenities including a fully enclosed indoor arena, lighted outdoor arena, round pen, hot walker, and a climate-controlled tack room/lounge. RHEC is known for providing training and lessons with 4-star level event rider, Ellen Doughty-Hume, making it a coveted destination for equestrian enthusiasts.
My Rating: 8 out of 10
Google Rating: 4.5 stars out of 35 reviews
Pricing: $80 for a private lesson, $60 for a semi-private lesson (2 people), and $50 for a group lesson (3+ people).
Website URL: Rockwall Hills Equestrian Center
Business Address: 339 Shenandoah Ln, Rockwall, TX 75087
Hours of Operation: Open daily 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Phone Number: 817-913-0298
Final Thoughts
And there you have it, folks! From the rustic charm of Rocking J Stables to the elite training at Laurel Ridge, Dallas truly is a haven for horse lovers. Each stable brought its unique flavor to the equestrian table, making this journey an unforgettable trot through the heart of Texas horseback riding culture. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely trail ride or an intensive training session, these top spots in Dallas won’t disappoint.
So, dust off those riding boots, grab the reins, and embark on your equine adventure. Happy trails and may your rides be as wild and free as the Texan spirit!