Blue Ridge Equestrian Trail
The Blue Ridge Horse Trail is a great trail for horseback riding, backpacking, camping, and birdwatching, particularly for those looking for a quieter trail along an old woods road through the forest.
Located in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks, this 9.85-mile long trail weaves through the hills and hollows of the Eleven Point Ranger District. The trailhead is located on the eastern end of the Blue Ridge Trail.
Climbing from low hollow bottoms to rocky ridge tops, the trail meanders through a forest of oak and pine. Additional miles can be enjoyed on the Eleven Point River section of the Ozark Trail. The total trail distance when going on to the Ozark Trail is 22.5 miles. The Ozark Trail connects with the Blue Ridge Horse Trail at the Paty Pond Trailhead.
Deer, raccoon, and squirrels are common and can be seen or heard along the trail. An occasional glimpse of the wild turkey or the colorful Pileated Woodpecker is possible.
Natural water for horses along the trail is very limited and may be seasonal.
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
Trail Type
General Information
Camping: Dispersed camping is allowed along the trail. There are no designated sites and no amenities.
Length: 9.85 miles
Leave No Trace: Pack out what you pack in; be prepared and minimize your impact.
Safety:
- No drinking water is available at parking areas or along the trail; bring what you will need, or be prepared to sterilize water you find.
- During temperate months, be prepared for biting insects, poison ivy and high temperatures.
- Be aware of hunting seasons.
For more safety tips visit the Safety section of the website.
January - December
There are no fees.
None
On the Trail
- Hiking, Biking and Horseback riding is permitted.
- No motorized vehicles are permitted.
At the Trailheads
- Dogs must be on a 6 foot leash in the day use area
- No trash containers; please pack out all your trash.
- Fireworks are prohibited.
- Horses may not be tied directly to trees.
Address: #66 Confederate Ridge Road Doniphan, MO 63935
Phone: 573-996-2153
Hours: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday; District Offices closed 1 - 1:30 for lunch (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: sm.fs.marktwainnf@usda.gov
Getting There
Parking
Trailhead: 16 vehicles
Directions
From Winona
- Go south on Highway 19 for 12 miles
- Turn right onto Forest Road 3174 and travel for .6 miles.
- Turn left onto Forest Road 3241 for about 1 mile.
- The trailhead will be on your left.
Additional Information
Operated By
USDA Forest Service
Nearby Recreation Sites
Recreation Opportunities
Backpacking Info
This trail is not heavily used for hiking or backpacking.
Eleven Point River Section of the Ozark Trail
The Eleven Point River Section of the Ozark Trail covers approximately 35 miles. It was designed to accommodate mountain bikes, hiking and horseback riding.
Horseback Riding Info
Blue Ridge Horse Trail is designed to accommodate equestrian traffic, but is not a very busy equestrian trail.
Eleven Point River Section of the Ozark Trail
The Eleven Point River Section of the Ozark Trail covers approximately 35 miles. It was designed to accommodate mountain bikes, hiking and horseback riding.
Biking - Mountain Info
This trail is not used heavily for mountain biking. There is a lot of brush along the trail.
Eleven Point River Section of the Ozark Trail
The Eleven Point River Section of the Ozark Trail covers approximately 35 miles. It was designed to accommodate mountain bikes, hiking and horseback riding.
Viewing Wildlife Info
Deer, raccoon, and squirrels are common and can be seen or heard along the trail. An occasional glimpse of the wild turkey or the colorful Pileated Woodpecker is possible.