Silver Falls State Park in Oregon is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to experience the park’s natural beauty through guided horseback rides. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or a beginner, the guided horseback rides at Silver Falls State Park provide a one-of-a-kind way to immerse yourself in the park’s stunning landscapes.
Cost and Availability of Guided Horseback Rides
The cost of the guided horseback rides at Silver Falls State Park is $75 per rider. The rides are available five times daily, with departures at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m., and 6 p.m. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling (503) 873-3113.
Horseback Riding for Beginners
One of the great things about the guided horseback rides at Silver Falls State Park is that they are open to beginners. The horses are bred and trained to be laid-back and easy to ride, and the rides begin with safety instruction to ensure that even first-time riders feel comfortable and confident on the trail.
Bringing Your Own Horse to Silver Falls State Park
If you’re an experienced equestrian, you can also bring your own horse to Silver Falls State Park. The park has over 20 miles of horse-friendly trails and excellent camping facilities at the Howard Creek Horse Camp, making it a great destination for those who want to explore the park on their own horse.
Trails and Camping at Silver Falls State Park
Silver Falls State Park offers more than 35 miles of multi-use trails that are perfect for horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking. Some of the popular trails include the Buck Mountain Loop, Howard Creek/Buck Mountain Loop, Rackett Ridge/Perimeter Loop, and the 214/Smith Creek Loop.
For those who want to camp with their horses, the Howard Creek Horse Camp has five campsites with steel corrals for four horses each, as well as a group site with corrals for 12 horses. Reservations are required for the camp.
Additional Safety and Wildlife Considerations
When participating in the guided horseback rides at Silver Falls State Park, there are a few important safety considerations to keep in mind. Riders must be at least 7 years old, and everyone 16 and under must wear a helmet.
The park is also home to various wildlife, including black bears and cougars. Visitors should not approach these animals and should report any sightings to park staff.
Overall, the guided horseback rides at Silver Falls State Park offer a unique and unforgettable way to experience the park’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced equestrian, the rides provide a chance to explore the stunning trails and waterfalls of this incredible Oregon state park.
References:
1. https://eu.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/2019/06/14/silver-falls-state-park-horseback-riding-guided-hiking-waterfalls/1457918001/
2. https://nwhorsetrails.com/blogs/northwest-oregon-horse-trails/silver-falls-state-park
3. https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=151
4. https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=main.loadFile&load=_siteFiles%2Fpublications%2F%2Fsilver-falls-map-2022web.014942.pdf.