Horse Riding and Camping
Horseback riding is a wonderful way to explore both the front & backcountry
Horseback Riding
Riding through a forest’s diverse landscapes, from dense woodlands to open meadows, offers a unique and intimate way to connect with nature and experience the wilderness's tranquility and beauty. On horseback, you can reach parts of the forest that might be inaccessible by foot or vehicle, uncovering hidden gems and secluded spots. Many trails and trail heads on the Forest are horse friendly.
Important information
- Trail etiquette for multiple use trails calls for horses to have the right-of-way. Hikers should yield to horses. Bicyclists should yield to horses and hikers. Horse riders are responsible for the control of their horse at all times.
- Many trails are open to multiple non-motorized uses, meaning the trails are shared by hikers, horse riders, and bicyclists. Information on allowed trail uses is available on trailhead signs and the National Geographic-Trails Illustrated map for the area, or by contacting the nearest Ranger District office.
- Be sure to bring only certified weed-free feed for your stock.
- Pack it in, pack it out
- Riders are responsible for:
- Ensuring that their horse has been tested for Equine Infectious Anemia.
- Carrying current written proof of a negative Coggins Test result.
- Providing proof of negative Coggins Test upon request.
Horse Camping
Horses are not permitted in developed areas (campgrounds and picnic areas) unless specifically stated. Dispersed camping with your favorite equines is an experience you'll not soon forget.
Any food storage orders apply to all types of camping, horse camping or otherwise. Secure food away from wildlife.
Search for Horse Riding and Camping Opportunities
Acascosa Trail
The Acascosa trail is 1.4 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 249 and ends at Forest Road 249. The trail is open for the following uses: Motorcycle riding, horseback riding, hiking, and mountain…
Adams Fork Trail # 713
The Adams Fork trail is 6.6 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 247 and ends at Forest Trail 813, CDNST.The trail starts above Platoro Reservoir and provides access into the South San Juan…
Adams Fork Trailhead, Trail 713
Site Open
The trailhead is on FDR 247, about 1 mile above Platoro Reservoir. The trailhead parking is to the left of the road, the trail is across the road to the right. This area is open to dispersal camping,…
Alamosa Rock Trail #703
The Alamosa Rock Trail #703 is 5.4 miles long. It begins at Alamosa Campground and Forest Road 250 and ends at Rio Grande County Rd. 28 (Rock Creek Rd). The trail is open for the following uses:…
Alamosa Trailhead and Trail #703
Site Open
Alamosa trailhead is just west of the junction of FDR 250 and FDR 260. There is limited parking here. Trail 703 begins here and goes to Comstock Campground on Rock Creek. The trail climbs steeply out…
Alder Bench Trail # 799
The Alder Bench trail is 6.5 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 610 right next to the Alder Creek Cabin and ends at Forest Trail 761.In the past, this trail was used by stockmen taking livestock up…
Alder Bench Trailhead #799
Site Open
This Trailhead sits right behind the Alder Guard Station Cabin and the trail climbs the ridge to the west. From here you have excellent views of the Rio Grande Canyon between South Fork and…
Alder Guard Station Cabin
Site Temporarily Closed
The Alder Guard Station is located two miles north of the town of South Fork along Alder Creek. The guard station was built in 1910 and was the residence and office for the local ranger district. The…
Alverjones Cutoff Trailhead
Site Open
The Alverjones Cutoff trail is 0.7 miles long. It begins at Forest Trail 728 and ends at Forest Trail 727. Â
Alverjones Trailhead
The Alverjones trail is 1.1 miles long. It begins at Forest Trail 727 and ends at Alverjones Lake/Forest Trail 775. The trail is open for the following uses: Horseback Riding, backpacking, and hiking.