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.

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Recreation Opportunities

Horseback Riding (78)

Horse Camping (27)

Showing: 1 - 10 of 82 results

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 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 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 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 - No #

Site Open

The Alverjones Cutoff trail is 0.7 miles long. It begins at Forest Trail 728 and ends at Forest Trail 727. The trail is open for the following uses: At present, skiing and snowshoeing.

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.

Antonito, CO

Located on US highway 285, 25 miles south west of Alamosa. Junction of State highway 17 is just south of Antonito.

Archuleta Trailhead - Trails # 741 & # 740

Site Open

The Archuleta trail is composed of 2 segments.  Trail 741 is 4.3 miles long. It begins at Forest Road 121 and ends at Forest Trail 740.1. Trail 740.1 is 6.99 miles long.  It begins at Trail 740…

Bear Lake Cutoff Trailhead - Trail # 721.1

Site Open

The Bear Lake Cutoff trail is 2.2 miles long. It begins at Forest Trail 721.0 and ends at Forest Trail 720. The trail is open for the following uses: Horseback riding, backpacking, and hiking.

Bear Lake Trailhead

Site Open

The trailhead is approx. 1 1/2 miles up FDR 105 from its junction with FDR 260. There is limited parking.