The trails in the Galena Territory are among some of the most lovely and picturesque trails of the mid-west. While riding one of our trusty steeds, we can take you from the riding center to open meadows, up gently sloping hills, cross a sparkling stream and into a wood of old oaks. The abundant wildlife found here include large leaf deciduous trees, deer, wild turkey, natural grasses, sprawling wild flowers and canopies of branches shading your way.

A ride through these woods and meadows gives a needed respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life and brings us back to a simpler time. A wonderful way to experience nature is to ride on top of a beautiful horse. Trail rides are available year round.

Telephone (815)777-2373 or e-mail shenandoahriding@yahoo.com

       

We offer a great deal of instruction on each ride because we want each person to feel that they have learned something about riding and that they achieved the goal of experiencing riding a horse.

We have regularly scheduled times for our rides.  Ride times for the Shenandoah Trail are: 9:30a.m.,11:30a.m.,1:30p.m.,3:30p.m  The Territory Trail ride times are 11:30am and 1:30pm. Ride time for the Canter Ride is 9:00a.m.

It is recommended that you call (815)777-2373 and make a reservation. We need  a credit card number to hold spaces on any ride, we have a 24 hour cancellation policy.

Suitable attire for trail riding is jeans or full length pants that are comfortable and boots with a heel or athletic shoes. If you need gloves they should be tight fitting with easy use of fingers so you can easily grip the reins.

Every trail ride begins with a five minute basic riding instructions so your trail ride may be a more positive, safe and fun experience.

The Shenandoah Trail
Riding level: beginner. $40/person as of may 15, 2010.

The Shenandoah Trail ride is a beginning level trail ride.  It is approximately forty-five minutes to an hourlong ride at a  walk and jog. The trail meanders through the tranquil wooded hills and green valleys at the Shenandoah Riding Center. It is a guided ride. Minimum age 8 years old, minimum size 65 lb weight and 48" tall.

Children must meet all of these requirements. Children that do not meet the size requirement but are over 9 years old, can take a beginner riding lesson with an instructor who can decide if you can go out on the trail ride.

Children  under ten must take a beginner riding lesson before going on the Shenandoah Trail for the first time. We also recommend that ten year olds take a beginner riding lesson before going on the Shenandoah Trail for the first time.

 If your child is unsure about riding, a beginner riding lesson is an ideal preparation for the Shenandoah trail ride.

The way in which your child is introduced to horses and riding may remain an influence well into his or her adult life. A safe, fun experience will probably result in a life-long love of horses and riding, but one scare can put a child off for life. It is, therefore, essential to ensure that the first equestrian experience is both safe and enjoyable.

For younger and smaller children we have Lead Lines and Lessons.

The Territory Trail
Riding level: intermediate. $75/ person as of may 15, 2010.

For those who would like to ride even longer then one hour but do not have the ability to canter we offer the Territory Trail. This ride is for people who have done a little riding (ridden at least six times ) and feel confident and athletic enough to ride longer. You will ride through the stunning landscape of rugged hills, deep ravines and panoramic ridge tops of the Galena Territory. This ride is at the pace of a walk and jog, with opportunity to trot at the guides discretion and takes approximatley two hours. Advance your riding ability on this scenic ride. Minimum age 10 years old.

 

   

The Canter Ride
Riding level: advanced. $90/ person as of may 15 2010.

The Canter Ride takes approximately two hours. This ride is for people who have done quite a bit of riding or ride regularly (once per week) and feel confident and advanced enough to ride longer and over more challenging terrain. This ride is at the pace of a walk, trot, and opportunities to canter at the guides discretion. The Canter Ride takes you through some beautiful trails in the hilly woods of the Galena  Territory. Riders scheduling a Canter Ride should have some of their own riding gear: boots, helmet, etc.  Minimum Age 10 years old.

       

Private Trail Rides

Private rides can be arranged for special groups.

An additional fee of $75/ group and price of  the ride.

A LIABILITY RELEASE FORM must be completed before riding.

Galena Territory Property owners discount available.