Horseback riding near Louisville

I am looking for a place close to Louisville that offers experienced riders the ability to "rent" horses by the hour to go trail riding. Or even a place that has trail rides for experienced riders with a guide. Not interested in those nose to tail walking trail ride places.

Any horse people out there have any suggestions? Greatly appreciate it!

Thanks,
Lori

Lori I looked for a location just as you described about 2 or 3 years ago and found NONE. I was told it was because of the insurance costs. Best of luck in your search.

http://www.horserentals.com/kentucky.html

I'm not sure if they still do this, but you might check with Rock Creek Riding Stables, which is next to Seneca Park. They used to rent horses and let people ride them in Cherokee Park.

Unescorted?

I'm not sure, but I know it wasn't in big groups.

McNeeley Lake had a barn in the past that would rent , not sure if they are still around. I know when i had my barn the liability was just too much, even if someone actually knew how to tack up a horse. You might have luck just asking at the tack shops if they know anyone-- the hitching post, ky horse supply, goshen saddlery-- Also, tractor supply in shelbyville & lagrange often know everyone around. Hope that helps.

One more thought-- Mint Spring Stables , carol rudloff is the owner, may be able to help. Her farm is part of norton common's farm, and there is a pretty good amount of space to ride, if someone will take you. ( in phone book, i think). There are also 2 barns on Rose island road, on henry wallace's farm. I am fairly sure several people who teach there might take people on trail rides-- I can't remember the name of the barn , but if you turn on rose island off 42, it is the first barn on the left.

Another option might be to explore share boarding. That way you could have more access to a horse when you like, once you figure out how to work it with the person you're sharing the horse and board with.

Or even a place that has trail rides for experienced riders with a guide. Not interested in those nose to tail walking trail ride places.

Any horse people out there have any suggestions? Greatly appreciate it!

Thanks,
Lori

I'm not sure of your definition of "near Louisville," but the West Baden Springs Hotel in West Baden/French Lick has stables/riding. I don't think (but aren't completely sure) they rent the horses, i.e., I think all the tours are guided, but they offer three levels of tours at three lengths, up to 2.5 hours I think. My wife and I did this a few months ago, and the trails were pretty good, as were the horses. Unfortunately, we were forced to do the basic/45 minute ride because she had never ridden before. It's about a 70-80 minute drive.